Direct Access

What is Direct Access?

The Direct Access (or Public Access) scheme allows members of the public to instruct an authorised barrister directly. The barrister’s role remains the same, meaning that they are qualified to:

  • provide you with expert legal advice about the merits and potential outcomes of your case;

  • assist you with drafting correspondence;

  • help to draft statements from litigants and witnesses;

  • 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; and

  • represent you in court.

Most barristers who offer Direct Access do not offer to conduct litigation. That means that the responsibility for the day to day management of your case will remain with you but please ask as some do have the special training.

These are just some of the areas of work undertaken by our barristers under direct access.

Immigration

  • Visa Applications and Extensions – All Tiers
  • Immigration Appeals
  • Bail Applications
  • Asylum
  • UK Settlement
  • Deportation
  • Business Immigration
  • Judicial Review

Motoring Law

  • Driving under the influence of drink or drugs
  • Speeding offences
  • Driver using a mobile phone
  • No insurance

Civil​

  • Small Claims
  • Fast and Multi Track
  • Landlord & Tenant
  • General Housing

Family

  • Child Arrangement Orders
  • Prohibited Steps / Specific Issue Orders
  • Non-molestation Orders
  • Occupation Orders
  • Divorce & Family Finances

Eligibility for Legal Aid

Barristers are not able to undertake any publicly funded (‘legal aid’) work under the Direct Access scheme, nor can they carry out any means test for you. If you think that you may be eligible for public funding, you can check by completing the Legal Aid Eligibility Calculator.

If you are eligible for legal aid but prefer to instruct a barrister directly, you can do so on a privately funded basis.

To enquire about our barristers and the costs involved please call 020 3026 1945, email info@hillhousechambers.co.uk or hit the chat button at the bottom right of this site.