Public Access

Until 2004, barristers were only able to undertake work on the instructions of a solicitor.

However, a change in the law means that barristers are now able to accept instructions from public and professional clients direct, without the need for instructing a solicitor in the first place.

Tanfield Chambers is pleased to accept Public Access work, please contact one of the clerks who will be happy to assist on 020 7421 5300

What is the difference between a Public Access barrister and a normal barrister?

Public Access barristers do what barristers always do: provide specialist legal advice, draft legal documents including documents needed during litigation, and provide specialist representation and advocacy before Courts and other Tribunals.
You can be advised and guided through the legal process by the barrister rather than by a solicitor and the barrister. You can also seek advice about setting up a business, drafting employment and other contracts, with the aim of avoiding or reducing disputes in the future.

What are the benefits of Public Access?

• You only pay one legal advisor rather than two, and, since you are paying the one with lower overheads, this will usually be more economical than retaining the solicitor alone and will certainly cost less than instructing both
• You get direct access to specialist legal advisors and advocates, at a time of your choice - not just when a problem gets to Court
• You will normally know in advance the basis on which the work will be charged for

Your barrister will be able to inform you if you do need a solicitor, or the help and advice of another specialist, and may be able to recommend one.

What areas of law are suitable for Public Access work?

Public access is available in all types of work that barristers can do, except for work funded out of legal aid.  It is most suitable for reasonably straightforward cases.  If the barrister considers that your case would benefit from the involvement of a solicitor, he or she will tell you so.  A barrister may choose whether or not to take a public access case.

At Tanfield Chambers we believe that the following are particularly suitable for Public Access:

• Advisory work in all areas of law affecting individuals and businesses including legal documents, contracts, etc
• Litigation support in all areas where legal proceedings are being made by or against individuals or businesses. For example advice about the merits of a claim or defence, procedural advice or representation at Court hearings
• Second Opinions where solicitors have already been retained
• Advice and Representation before Tribunals including Criminal Compensation claims, Employment claims, Special Educational Needs and Disability Discrimination claims, and all other tribunals or formal hearings at which you are entitled to be represented

Are there any areas where I can’t instruct a barrister directly?

If you are unsure of whether your legal issue is covered by Public Access, contact one of the clerks or fill in this form.
 

How do I instruct a barrister at Tanfield Chambers?

If you are considering instructing a barrister at Tanfield Chambers under the Public Access route, please complete the following form.
 
If the matter is very urgent please telephone one of the clerks on 020 7421 5300