With the latest plan for the approval of an extension to public access rules, barristers with under three years' practising experience will be able to take instructions directly from clients.
The Bar Standards Board heard that these 'baby barristers' may be the only representations some clients can afford.
The Law Society has previously opposed removing the limitation, stating that 'Dealing directly with clients requires a level os maturity and expertise which the majority of entrants to the profession cannot be expected to possess'. The Board's proposal acknowledges that it does carry the risk that clients might instruct a public access barrister when it may be best to apply for legal aid and that there could be a lack of expertise to handle work. But the overriding interest is to not adversely affect access to justice.
The BSB will submit its proposals to the Legal Services Board next month. The BSB’s meeting also heard calls for the ‘naming and shaming’ of solicitors who request referral fees for work. The payment of such fees is prohibited by the bar’s code of conduct.
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