What is direct access?

Direct access is a scheme which qualifies barristers to take instructions directly from a client, enabling you to instruct a barrister without first going through a solicitor. As a client who needs legal advice or representation in court, this could save you money in legal fees.

Direct access enables you to work directly with a barrister rather than going through a solicitor first. This means that you can save money as you will only have to pay one person, instead of two. You may also be able to fix the barrister's fees in advance, so that there are no hidden costs.

Several thousand barristers across England and Wales operating in a range of specialist areas of law have undertaken the training required to become direct access qualified. You can use the Direct Access Portal to find and contact the best barristers for your case, at a price that you are able to afford.

What are the advantages of engaging a barrister through direct access?

Directly instructing a barrister means you can use your financial resources more effectively, spending more on advice and preparation rather than administration. Providing your instructions directly can help to improve communication between you and your barrister.

You can use the Direct Access Portal to contact expert barristers and discuss whether direct access is suitable for your case. Many barristers offer a free initial consultation for this purpose.