Public Access

At New Square Chambers, we have a number of barristers that are able to accept instructions directly from members of the public, or companies, without the need for a solicitor. This is known as Public Access, or Direct Access.

If you are interested in instructing one of our barristers under the Public Access Scheme, please get in touch by completing our Public Access Enquiry Form.

Unfortunately, not every case will be suitable for Public Access, so completing this form will allow us to assess your case and the most appropriate course of action.

Public Access Enquiry Form

How does instructing us for Public Access work?

Instructing the right barrister for your case is an important first step. We work hard, within the Practice Management team to understand your needs, so we can recommend the best person for the job.

If one of our barristers agrees to accept your instruction under the Public Access Scheme, we will first need to do an anti-money laundering check. To do this we will require:

Photographic ID (such as a full UK driving licence or passport).
A recent utility bill at your current address (which must not be dated more than three months before your enquiry).

If you are acting on behalf of a company, you will need to produce ALL of the following:

A certified copy of a Certificate of Incorporation.
Evidence that you are authorised to act on behalf of the company.
A copy of the company’s latest statutory accounts filed at Companies House.

Once this process is completed then our Practice Management team will work with you, and your barrister, to agree fees and timescales, as well as handling the day-to-day management of your case.

Fees for Public Access

At New Square Chambers, our Practice Managers are more than happy to discuss fees. We are known for our transparent, communicative and flexible approach.

In the majority of cases fees will be based on Counsel’s hourly and/or daily rate, prior to Counsel accepting your instruction.

We will provide a fixed fee quote, which will need to be paid in advance of Counsel commencing work. A fixed fee means that we will charge you a set amount of money for the work required.

The fixed fee amount can vary depending on the nature of the work required. Your fees are likely to be higher if you need a more experienced barrister and/or if your case is particularly complex.

Included within this we’ll also set out, where possible, any additional costs you might incur, as well as key stages, any additional payment schedule and indicative timescales for your case.

Please note that all fees will be subject to VAT, where applicable.

Contact our Clerking Team