Please click here to download a .pdf version of the Thomas More Chambers “Direct Access” application form. Please print off, complete and post it with accompanying documentation.

The form is also available here in Microsoft Word format, for easy electronic completion on your computer.

Hard copies of the form can also be obtained by contacting Stuart Sellen by telephone or via email ssellen@thomasmore.co.uk.

Instructing a barrister direct

Since July 2004 the Bar Code of Conduct has been amended to allow a member of public (in certain circumstances) to instruct a barrister directly. In essence, this means that the rule that a lay client must go through a solicitor has been lifted.

What barristers can and cannot do if accessed direct

Barristers can supply their normal services (including specialist advice, drafting and advocacy) directly to the client. However, they cannot undertake the work which solicitors perform in the management of litigation, for example direct correspondence or the preparation of witness statements. Direct Public Access is not permitted in criminal, family or immigration work (apart from in certain narrowly-defined circumstances: please speak to the clerks for further details).

And for foreign lawyers?

Barristers are able to receive direct instructions from lawyers, businesses or individuals based outside the UK and can offer specialist advice, arbitration services, mediation and specialist advocacy services, the latter before European and international courts and tribunals.

Who does direct public access work in Chambers?

You will find the members of Chambers who undertake direct public access work listed below, and their own pages will give details of the areas in which they specialise. An independent directory of barristers who have received training in public access work is provided by the Bar Council of England and Wales on their website. Click here to link to that directory.

Further information:

*** For answers to Frequently Asked Questions in Employment Law - Click Here ***

Our team is always happy to discuss your requirements. Please contact Stuart Sellen in the first instance by telephone or email at ssellen@thomasmore.co.uk.

For more information on the rules governing Public Access work, please consult the Bar Council Website 

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT PAYMENT FOR PUBLIC ACCESS CASES IS REQUIRED IN ADVANCE OF WORK BEING UNDERTAKEN

To start the process of consulting a barrister at Thomas More Chambers on a direct access basis you must complete the Thomas More Chambers “Direct Access” application form.              PDF Format.             Word Format.