Bar Council Direct Access Portal

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.”