Hire a Direct Access Family Law Barrister
The right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. That is why it is so important to seek expert advice at the outset from a Barrister that specialises in your type of case, whether it be a divorce, financial settlement or a child custody dispute. Direct access allows you to consult with a barrister directly without going through a solicitor, which can be more cost-effective as well as fostering a stronger attorney-client relationship resulting in better guidance.
The process of hiring a barrister on a direct access family law barrister basis can be complicated, especially for people who are not familiar with the process. Direct access barristers are experienced family law professionals who can provide specialised legal assistance for sensitive cases such as divorce or separation, child custody disputes, and financial settlements. They can advise on legal issues, draft documents, and even represent you in court, helping you to resolve your case efficiently and effectively.
In the past, clients would usually instruct a solicitor to handle all the ‘paperwork’ and then ‘brief’ a Barrister to give them expert legal advice and to represent them in court. However, since 2004 members of the public have been able to brief a Barrister directly under the Public Access Scheme, avoiding paying for two different types of lawyer.
Before your first meeting, it is important to prepare for the meeting by collecting all relevant documents and information you may have about your case. This could include contracts, emails, or any other evidence that you think might be helpful. It is also a good idea to write down the key points that you wish to discuss with the Barrister and any questions or concerns you have about your case.
How to Hire a Direct Access Family Law Barrister
The first meeting will typically take place in person or over the telephone, depending on your location and the Barrister’s availability. During this initial consultation, the Barrister will review your documentation and gather more details about your situation. Afterwards, they will explain the legal principles that apply to your case and provide an honest assessment of what might happen at any given stage of your matter.
After the initial meeting, the Barrister will prepare written advice based on the facts and your specific needs. They will then send this to you for your consideration along with a quote for the Barrister’s fees for further work, such as attending court hearings and drafting legal documents.
Direct Access Barristers are regulated by the Bar Council and must comply with strict professional rules, which gives you the assurance that your case will be handled professionally at all times. Barristers that offer a Direct Access service will also have a Code of Conduct which sets out the standard of conduct that they must maintain in relation to their clients.
Sarah and Mark were struggling to reach a mutually satisfactory child custody agreement following their separation. Their direct access barrister helped them to understand the legal principles of child custody and assisted with the negotiation process, enabling them to find an agreement that was satisfactory for both parties.