Traditionally the Bar has been a referral profession. That is, barristers can only be instructed to act by a solicitor. However, over time these rules have been relaxed and since July 2004 members of the public have been allowed to instruct barristers directly on certain matters. Not every barrister however can accept such direct instruction.

Detailed guidance as to the role of barristers under the Direct Public Access scheme can be found here.

As can be seen from the guide above, there is a large amount a barrister can help you with under the Direct Access scheme. Below I have set out a few pointers as to what I personally can assist you with.


What type of work can I do for you?
As you can see from my C.V. a lot of my experience is in the employment law field. However I also have considerable experience in other aspects of litigation including commercial contracts and licensing. As a barrister I also draft and advise upon documents and contracts including:

• contracts of employment;
• employment policies (e.g. computer usage, disciplinary codes);
• compromise agreements;
• commercial contracts.

Can I advise you before litigation is commenced?
The short answer to this is: yes. I am prepared to review your case at any time and advise you, whether in writing, over the telephone or face to face about the strength of your case or that of the other side. Further, I can draft documents for you that you can use for litigation including witness statements or the relevant statements of case (e.g. Particulars of Claim, Defences etc.).


Are there any limits to what can be done under the Direct Access Scheme?
There are, unfortunately, some limits as to what a barrister can do under the scheme. For instance the scheme prevents barristers from gathering evidence. If your case needs evidence to be gathered then you should either attempt to gather the evidence yourself or you can instruct a solicitor to assist. If you wish, I am able to recommend a list of firms to you who may be able to assist you.


How much do I charge, and how long do I take?
Before any work is started my clerks or I will always provide you with either a fixed fee for the work or an hourly rate I will charge.

If I am unable to provide you with a fixed fee then the hourly rate will depend on a number of factors including:

• the work you want me to do (e.g represent you in court, draft a document);
• the complexity of the matter;
• the likely time it will take to complete the work; (e.g. a day long trial);
• the time frame for completion of the work (e.g. a deadline of the next day);
• the volume of papers I will need to read.

Where relevant I will also agree with you a deadline when the work will be completed by.


Am I prepared to travel?
I am prepared to travel, however I do charge for my travel expenses and my time travelling. My clerks and I will of course discuss this with you to ensure a mutually agreeable arrangement can be arrived at.


What do I want from you?
Please see the page here that sets out a list of items that will assist me in helping you. This list is aimed at reducing the time it will take me to complete the work you have asked me to do, and so save you money!