Is my case suitable for direct access?

Not all cases are suitable for public access instructions. You will need to be confident that you can undertake the administrative tasks associated with managing a case this includes:

  • Collating relevant papers and evidence in support
  • 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).

The 3Legal service will deliver this administration support for you at a cost – but you may prefer to carry out this significant paperwork and support work personally or have a friend or another commercial supplier help you.

Specifically, you can instruct a 3PB barrister to:

  • Provide you with expert legal advice about the merits and potential outcomes in your case.
  • Assist you to draft correspondence and in some circumstances, corresponding on your behalf
  • Help to draft statements from litigants and witnesses and, in some circumstances, investigate and collect evidence on your behalf.
  • Draft formal court documents.
  • Advise you on suitable experts and draft instructions to expert witnesses.
  • Offer you advice on the next steps to be taken in proceedings.
  • Assist you in trying to resolve your case without going to court (e.g. by way of mediation or other form of alternative dispute resolution).
  • Represent you in Court.

Do check the Bar Standards Board too for guidance about members of the public using barristers.