Public Access

What is Public Access?

Following the introduction of the Public Access Scheme in 2004, members of the public can now instruct a barrister directly without needing to go through a solicitor or another intermediary. This approach can streamline the legal process, potentially saving time and reducing legal costs.

Not all Barristers can accept instructions in this way, but at KBG Chambers we have a number of accredited Barristers across many specialisations licenced to accept instructions directly.

What are the benefits of Public Access?

• If your case is suitable for Public Access you will save on costs. You only pay for a barrister, rather than both a solicitor and a barrister, often significantly reducing legal costs.
• You have direct contact with a specialist legal advisor and advocate, allowing you to get clear and focused legal advice from the start.
• The fees are transparent. Fees are agreed in advance of work being undertaken, there is transparency and you can keep control of your legal costs.

Is my case suitable for Public Access?

Not all cases are suitable for Public Access instructions. Our barristers are not authorised to conduct litigation on your behalf, which means you must be confident in your ability to manage the administrative responsibilities involved in your case. This includes tasks such as:

• Collating relevant papers and evidence in support.
• Sending all relevant documents electronically, in an organised and accessible format
• Providing clear and concise instructions for your Barrister.
• Corresponding with the Court and other parties directly (although your Barrister will be able to draft letters and other legal documents on your behalf).

If your case is complex, or if you are in any doubt that you can manage these elements of your case yourself, we would recommend that you engage the services of a Solicitor.

Public access is not suitable for work that is publicly funded. To find out if you are eligible for public funding (sometimes referred to as Legal Aid) please click here.

Similarly, we will not undertake ‘no win, no fee’ arrangements for Public Access work.

Further Information

Further information regarding Public Access may be found on the Bar Council and Bar Standards Board’s websites.

Please click here, to view details of the Bar Council’s Direct (Public) Access Scheme.

Please click here, to view the Bar Standards Board’s Public Access Guidance for Lay Clients.