The Bar Council has launched its Direct Access Portal, a free-to-use online directory allowing the public to find a barrister in their area and contact them directly without the need to go through a solicitor. Those using the portal don’t need to use the barrister for everything in the case. They can get advice on the chances of success, or ask for drafting work or representation from barristers trained as “direct access” barristers. Alistair MacDonald QC, Bar chairman, says direct access has “revolutionised” how the public use barristers. “There is no catch. It is a free online directory that allows the public to gain access to some of the top lawyers not only in the UK but the world.”
22 October 2015
Bar Council Direct Access Portal
MOVERS & SHAKERS
Gateley Legal—Jack Kelly
Gateley Legal expands Midlands residential development team
Gibson Dunn—Richard Surtees
Gibson Dunn adds employee benefits and executive compensation practice in London with partner Richard Surtees
Laytons ETL—Alec Cameron
Laytons ETL appoints new partner and head of intellectual property disputes
NEWS
A series of recent decisions has clarified important principles across property law, from perpetuities to lease renewals and public rights over land
Employers cannot rely on wellbeing services alone to defend workplace stress claims after a High Court decision awarding almost £1m to an overworked employee
Andy Burnham's brand of 'Manchesterism' could offer fresh thinking on legal aid and access to justice if it reaches Westminster, according to Roger Smith, NLJ columnist and former director of JUSTICE
The constitutional fallout from a change of prime minister, rather than the politics, is under scrutiny as questions arise over the limits of executive authority in a leadership transition
The legal profession is undergoing a fundamental shift from selling services to creating technology-enabled products, according to Professor Luke Mason, Head of School of Law at Regent's University London
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