Instructing a barrister is simple and usually completed in 3 easy steps:

Step 1 – Initial Consultation

Please complete the enquiry form which will help us to assess the nature of the assistance that we can provide and the barrister best suited for you. You may also call us on 020 7797 7900 if you prefer or email us at clerks@1gc.com with your enquiries, especially those of an urgent nature.

Once we have your details we will assess your case and in non-urgent cases endeavour to respond within 2 working days. At such time, depending on the suitability of your case, we will usually invite you to come into chambers for an Initial Consultation with one of our expert family law barristers. There is a nominal charge of £75 + VAT for this meeting. It is possible to hold the Initial Consultation meeting by telephone.

At the Initial Consultation you will outline the problems that you have, show us whatever documents you have and tell us what you would like us to do. At the Initial Consultation we will discuss your case in broad terms in order to identify what services you need us to perform and the timescale for performing those services. We will also deal with whether your case is suitable for public access. If it is not, we will do our best to identify a suitable solicitor to meet your needs.

You will be asked to bring along your driving licence or your passport and a recent utility bill. We will take and retain copies of these documents to ensure that we comply with any relevant statutory obligations.  You should also bring to this meeting  (1) any court papers (2) any documents filed at court and (3) any relevant correspondence with the other side or their lawyers. The Initial Consultation will last around 30 minutes.

Step 2 – Quote

If your case is suitable for public access you will be provided with a quote for the cost of the work that needs to have carried out on your behalf. The quote is usually provided after the Initial Consultation. Sometimes in order to arrive at a fee you will be asked to provide the barrister with copies of documents that your barrister will need to read.   

Step 3 – Contract

If you are happy with the fee that is quoted we will send you a client care letter confirming the barrister who will be acting for you, the work to be done, the fee and the fee structure for the service. The letter will also set out the terms and conditions under which the barrister will act for you. The client care letter forms the contract between you and your barrister. You will not be liable for any fees until you sign the client care letter. Once you have returned the signed client care letter to us and complied with the payment obligations contained in the letter, the barrister will begin to act on your behalf.