FAQS

Where are you based?

I am physically based in London but provide services nationally and have a good knowledge of the family courts in all parts of England and some of Wales.

Who do you accept instructions from?

I accept instructions in the ‘traditional’ barrister role whereby I am instructed by a solicitor to provide advice or representation at court for their client. This is kept and treated completely separately from my other cases and there would be no crossover.

I accept instructions directly from the public via the direct access scheme in the ‘usual’ way, providing advice and representation at hearings with the client conducting litigation themselves.

I also accept instructions directly from the public offering conduct of litigation (the same service provided by solicitors) and also providing representation at court hearings (as far as my diary permits), which allows clients to have the same lawyer throughout. Where I am unable to also provide the court advocacy, I have a truly excellent network of barristers nationally, know their expertise well (having been against many of them at court myself) and can instruct suitable counsel taking into account the experience level needed and the client’s budget.

What are your qualifications?

I am an honours law graduate and fully qualified barrister (called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2013) with a current, valid practising certificate. I am regulated by the Bar Standards Board who have additionally authorised me to conduct litigation.

I am also an Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA qualified) and regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

What and how do you charge?

I charge on an hourly basis usually but provide fixed fees wherever possible for set pieces of work such as standalone appearances at hearings (I always provide a fixed fee when instructed by solicitors). I have found from clients that the best balance is to charge hourly but have a ceiling/cap, meaning work does not exceed the client’s set budget without the client’s permission. My hourly rate starts at £170+VAT which is very competitive for my year of call (2013) and experience.

Do you accept legal aid?

I do not have a legal aid certificate and unfortunately am unable to accept legal aid.