Understanding Direct Access Barristers for Divorce: A Practical Guide

One of the most common questions people ask when starting a divorce is whether they really need a solicitor.

For many, the concern is cost. For others, it is control. And for a growing number of separating couples, the answer lies in using a direct access barrister instead.

Direct access has been around for some time, but there is still a lot of confusion about what it is, how it works, and whether it is suitable for divorce and family law cases. This guide explains how direct access works in practice, when it can help, and when it may not be the right option..

What does “direct access” mean?

Direct access (sometimes called public access) allows members of the public to instruct a barrister directly, without going through a solicitor.

Traditionally, solicitors handled client contact and preparation, and then instructed barristers for court hearings or specialist advice. Under the direct access scheme, that middle step is removed.

You work directly with a barrister for legal advice, drafting documents, and representation at court where appropriate.

Can you use a direct access barrister for divorce?

Yes, in many situations.

A direct access barrister can help with:

• Legal advice at any stage of divorce proceedings

• Financial remedy matters, including pensions and property

• Drafting and reviewing court documents

• Preparing you for hearings

• Representing you at court where the case allows

Many people use a barrister specifically for the complex or technical parts of their case, while managing the admin and paperwork themselves.

What a direct access barrister does not do

It is important to be clear about the limits.

Barristers do not usually:

• Act as a general point of contact for the court on administrative matters

• Manage correspondence day-to-day unless agreed

• Chase documents or third parties on your behalf

That does not mean direct access is risky. It just means it works best when there is clarity about who is doing what.

At Barrister Connect, that practical gap is managed so clients get structured support without paying for unnecessary layers.

Is direct access cheaper than using a solicitor?

Often, yes, but not always in the way people expect.

Direct access can be more cost-effective because:

• You pay for legal expertise, not admin

• Fees are transparent and fixed or clearly scoped

• You can choose how much support you need

However, if someone needs a high level of hand-holding or administrative management, a solicitor may still be appropriate for parts of your case. 

Who is direct access best suited to?

Direct access tends to work well for people who:

• Want clear, focused legal advice

• Are comfortable managing parts of the process themselves

• Need representation at a specific hearing

• Have financial remedy or child arrangements issues

It is also popular with people who already understand their case but want expert oversight before making decisions.

Getting advice early matters

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until something has gone wrong before getting advice.

Speaking to a barrister early can help you understand:

• Whether court proceedings are appropriate

• What documents you will need

• What a realistic outcome looks like

That clarity often saves time, money and stress later on.

If you are considering direct access and want clearer answers to the practical questions people often ask at the start, our FAQs cover costs, suitability and next steps in more detail.