WHAT IS A BARRISTER?

A barrister is a type of lawyer. A solicitor is another type of lawyer. Both perform important, but sometimes different, tasks. Both play important roles in legal proceedings.

A barrister specialises in : Appearing in Court on behalf of persons. Providing legal advice (known as “an opinion”). Drafting Court documents, such as Summons, Statements of Claim, and Statements of Defence. Other related work. As a barrister, I am briefed by a solicitor on behalf of the client. Although I am briefed by the solicitor, I act on the instructions of the client.  If you think you may require assistance from a barrister, I am prepared to discuss your query in general terms. See my Contact Details and Areas of Practice.

Generally speaking (there are exceptions) it is ultimately for the client, in consultation with the solicitor, to decide whether a barrister should be briefed.

Whether a barrister is required, often depends upon the seriousness of the matter, or the amount of money involved. Generally speaking (and there are exceptions) a dispute involving less than say $30,000, does not warrant the retention of a barrister, as a competent solicitor should be able to handle it. However, if you are in doubt, check with me.

These pages are intended to be a resource for lawyers and laypersons. Any content on these pages is not intended to be, nor is it a substitute for, legal advice. If you have a problem, and the resources here do not direct you to where you need to go, see a lawyer. It is intended that this page will contain only resources, not legal advice of any kind.