General

What is the difference between a barrister and a solicitor?

Barristers specialise in disputes, advice and court work. Typically, they are specialists in a particular area(s) of law. They may, with a few exception, accept instructions only from a solicitor (or firm of solicitors) as opposed to a client directly. Unlike solicitors, barristers are not permitted to practice in partnership with others, nor receive or hold monies on account of clients. Many barristers operate out of chambers with other barristers but their practices are quite independent of each other. It is for the instructing solicitor to hold monies on account of costs and also to be on the court record as the official address for service of documents. 

Will I require an instructing solicitor? 

Almost invariably, yes. If you do not have a particular firm in mind, I can assist you with my recommendations of firms that I have worked with in the past.  

Who will be primarily responsible for my file and will I be paying costs for you and the instructing solicitor?

I will have carriage of your file, although I will keep my instructing solicitor informed of developments by copying him/her into correspondence where appropriate and court documents. Over and above time spent maintaining an overview of your matter, my instructing solicitor will not incur any costs, unless specifically instructed by me, with your approval, or you directly, to do something. For example, the preparation of trust documents or a will, or acting on the sale and purchase of a property. 

When would I need a barrister? 

Barristers are Court specialists.  He or she can be expected to be well versed in Court room practice and procedure as well as his / her area of speciality, and for these reasons, better able than a generalist solicitor to advise and guide their clients through negotiations and where necessary court. 

How many barristers should I talk to before settling on one and what should I look for? 

Clients need to have trust and confidence in their barrister. But that comes with time. Establishing a good rapport is a priority. Without that it may be difficult to establish a good working relationship. 

It follows that great care is needed in selecting a suitable barrister to look after your affairs. Meet with /interview as many as you need within reason. The things to look for are experience and a proven track record. Look at websites and check for recommendations. Importantly, ask around. Speak to trusted friends and or professionals. 

Do you employ staff? 

Yes, I have three staff. Lauren Thomsen, Sharon Zhou, and Ashleigh Bradbury.

Lauren is my Practice Manager and Legal Assistant. Sharon and Ashleigh are my Law Clerks. My team assist in research and work closely with me on all matters. I also have access to a network of top academics and other professionals across the country and internationally. These include lawyers, forensic accountants, fund managers, private investigators and therapists to name a few.