What is Public Access/Direct Access
Public Access (also known as Direct Access) is a recent change to the law which enables Barristers to take on work from clients without the need for a Solicitor. Whether you are a Business, organisation or individual member of the public, you are now able to instruct a Barrister directly.
In Public Access cases you will be the one running your own case, but will have the specialist knowledge and guidance from a Barrister before going to court – where the Barrister can represent you. Public Access is a flexible service which means that you can decide how much or how little assistance you require from your legal professional. This bespoke method gives clients the ability to save money and have more of a say in the process.
What we can offer you
Our chambers offer a range of options to you in any Public Access case. Your service can be tailored to your needs and our Barristers have a wealth of experience in various fields. You can view individual members’ profiles via the members section of the website. All of our Public Access Barristers are accredited and registered with the Bar Standards Board.
What’s so different about Public Access
The usual way to instruct a Barrister is by first instructing a Solicitor. A Solicitor will help to organise and run the case for you but this can sometimes be an unnecessary expense. With Public Access you can instruct a Barrister directly, to advise and represent you at court. Whilst this may seem daunting, many of our Barristers have experience working in Solicitors’ offices; they can advise and assist you in running your case effectively. Our Barristers will always consider your needs, if it becomes apparent that you would benefit from hiring a Solicitor (for example if the case becomes very complicated) we will help to advise you of your options.
Direct Access for Housing Matters
Public access – Housing Law
Whether you are a private landlord or a housing association, you will always face the possibility of taking court action against tenants, or may even face claims against you. Public access allows you to get advice directly from a barrister and hire them to represent you at court without the additional fee of hiring a solicitor.
Advising clients directly
There may be times when you face difficulties in your business and you need advice as to what your legal obligations are, or where you stand. Barristers are specialists in advising on aspects of law, and our barristers are no different. Our Housing team has extensive experience in advising both landlords and tenants as to their rights, including working alongside Local Authority Housing departments and Registered Social Landlords.
Public access and representation at court
With Housing associations and most private landlords, the reality is that (with a little guidance) they can run their own cases without the need to instruct a solicitor. When it comes to representation at court however, landlords will benefit from the skills and experience of a barrister to represent them. Our barristers have an in depth knowledge of housing law and procedure, as well as a wealth of experience in handling witnesses.
Direct Access for Private Family law
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Direct Access for Ancillary Relief and Divorce
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Direct Access for Immigration Matters
Public Access – Immigration
In many immigration cases or appeals, you will not be eligible for Legal Aid; this often leaves people unrepresented at Immigration Tribunals. Some people are happy to run their own case but feel uncomfortable or at a disadvantage when it comes to the hearing itself. This is where the skills of a Barrister, instructed directly by you, can be helpful. Public Access allows you to get advice from a Barrister and hire them to represent you at court, without the additional fee of hiring a Solicitor.
Advising clients directly
UK immigration rules change frequently and there is always new case law to consider. By instructing a Barrister directly, at any stage, you can get up to date specialist advice without the need to instruct a Solicitor. Our Immigration team has extensive experience in advising on the merits of applications to the Home Office/Entry Clearance Officers, their decisions and appeals. As well as, decisions by Local Authorities or other public bodies regarding entitlements to benefits and housing.
Public Access and representation at court
The Immigration Tribunal is deemed to be a more informal court. However, the complexity of immigration rules and case law often mean a person representing themselves is at a disadvantage, both in preparing their case and presenting it to the tribunal. Our Barristers have an in depth knowledge of immigration law and tribunal procedures, as well as a wealth of experience in handling witnesses.
If you want to learn more about public access and whether this is the right option for you, the Bar Council web site provides further information at http://www.barcouncil.org.uk/instructing-a-barrister/public-access/. Alternatively please feel free to contact our clerks on 01792 411188 or email clerks@pendragonchambers.com for further information on what services we can offer. At Pendragon Chambers we are happy to accept direct access/public access instructions in suitable cases.
