What is a Direct Access family barrister and how can they assist you?
Introduction
If you’re exploring your options in family law, you may have come across the term Direct Access (also called Public Access). But what does it really mean and how can a family barrister help you without going through a solicitor? At Unit Chambers, we aim to demystify this for you, so you know exactly what you can expect.
Here’s a plain-spoken guide to what a direct access family barrister is and how we assist clients like you. (For our full Guide to Working With a Direct Access Barrister, see our Direct Access Guide.)
What is a Direct Access family barrister?
Definition: Direct Access allows an individual to instruct a barrister directly without the need to instruct a solicitor first.
Why it matters in family law: Historically, only solicitors could engage barristers on behalf of a client. Under Direct Access, you can go straight to an expert in family law to obtain advice, representation or drafting services.
Scope of work: A direct access barrister can:
• Advise you in conference based on your case papers
• Draft position statements, orders, applications etc
• Represent you at court hearings
But they cannot do things like write letters for you to send, chase the other side for documents, or file correspondence with the court on your behalf (unless you specifically engage further services). (These limitations are part of the rules that govern public access.)
How can a Direct Access family barrister assist you?
Working with a direct access barrister through Unit Chambers, you’ll receive focused, expert legal support tailored to your situation:
Cost savings and efficiency
By cutting out the solicitor middle layer, you often save on fees and reduce duplication of effort. Our rates are transparent and agreed in advance.Direct collaboration and control
You deal directly with your barrister; you can ask questions, receive strategy advice, and have more input into the direction of your case.Specialist representation
You benefit from barristers specialising solely in family law; child arrangements, divorce, financial matters, protection orders and more. As an specialist, award-winning chambers, you can rest easy knowing that you truly do have a leader in the field by your side.Remote and nationwide access
Many conferences and hearings can be done virtually (Teams, Zoom), so you don’t need to be close to one of our physical offices.Transparent process and support
At Unit Chambers, our Support Team helps you navigate the steps, so you’re not left wondering what happens next. (You can read our 10-step process in our Guide.)
Things to watch out for (limitations and suitability)
Not all cases are suitable: Some very complex or high-volume cases may require a solicitor or full litigation team.
Communication with the other side: Under Direct Access rules, your barrister cannot contact the other party or their solicitor, all communication must come from you.
You may need additional administrative support: Tasks like assembling the court bundle, filing documents, or chasing responses are your responsibility (unless otherwise agreed).
Costs may still escalate: If additional work arises beyond the original scope, you’ll be consulted and fees agreed in advance, but you must remain aware of this possibility.
How to decide if Direct Access is right for you
Ask yourself:
Do I have some confidence in managing parts of the case (filing documents, organising evidence)?
Is my case of manageable complexity (e.g. not very large asset valuations or multi-expert disputes)?
Am I comfortable communicating directly with the other side?
Do I prefer paying upfront known fees, rather than open-ended solicitor costs?
If the answer to these leans toward “yes,” then Direct Access could be a great option. And if you’re unsure, we’re always happy to talk it through.
Next Steps
If you’d like to explore whether direct access is suitable in your situation, start by submitting our Direct Access Application Form. Our Support Team will reach out within 24 hours, and one of our barristers will schedule a no-charge 15-minute suitability call.