ESTIMATE OF FEES FOR DIRECT ACCESS – Domestic Violence
For the purposes of transparency, we enclose below a schedule of estimated fees for Direct Access clients, namely members of the public who instruct barristers directly and not via a solicitor or other authorised litigator.
It is important to understand that the fees contained in the table below are estimates only and should not be considered the exact amounts to be charged. There are numerous factors to be taken into consideration that determine a barrister’s charges, for example, the volume of case documentation to peruse, i.e. papers to be read and analysed, legal research that might be required, complexities of the case that may increase preparation time, the experience and seniority of the barrister instructed, novel issues, number of witnesses, the court jurisdiction, i.e. family court/high court, travel disbursements etc.
The actual amounts to be charged can only be determined upon the proper evaluation of the case by the practice manager. This process will involve you having to provide the practice manager with certain information and documentation before a decision as to whether to accept your case can be taken. Please note there is no obligation on Chambers or the barrister to accept a case via Direct Access. Barristers are entitled to decline to accept a case via Direct Access.
The following table applies specifically to cases concerning financial disputes in divorce. The fees shown are estimates only. Our actual charges could be higher.
Our most commonly used pricing models are fixed fees based on hourly rates so we will estimate in advance the likely hours of work needed to deliver the required service – such estimate will be made solely on the information provided by the client.
Direct Access – Domestic Violence
Our barristers can advise you if you are in a relationship where you have experienced domestic abuse and need to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Our barristers have a wealth of expertise in domestic violence law. We frequently appear for applicants or respondents in Family Law Act 1996 proceedings including applications for Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders and committal proceedings following allegations of breach.
Our barristers are also experienced in dealing with issues of domestic violence arising in both care proceedings and child arrangements proceedings.
4 Brick Court is well known for offering a skilled and sensitive approach to this difficult area of law and our barristers are highly regarded for their ability to put clients at ease whilst providing robust representation.
Timescales
Timescales for your case may vary depending on factors such the individual court’s listings and how long it will take for your case to be heard, whether the other party/parties are represented and how quickly court documents have been put together by CAFCASS, local authorities or children’s services.
Fees
We charge fixed fees, which means that we will charge you a set amount of money for the work. Below we provide estimates based on the ranges of fixed fees for barristers at 4 Brick Court. VAT at the relevant rate (currently 20%) is payable on top of all fees estimated below.
Your fixed fees may be towards the higher end of the range if you need a more experienced barrister. If you have a particularly complex case, your fees may also be higher than the estimates below.
Stage of case
Ranges of fixed fees (estimate)
Initial Conference £500 + VAT – £1,200 + VAT
Without notice application £900 + VAT – £1,500 + VAT
Return Date – up to 2 hours hearing £1,500 + VAT – £2,250 + VAT
First Day of Final hearing (if no settlement £3,500 + VAT – £7,000 + VAT
reached)
Court appearances per day, after the first £1,500 + VAT – £1,750 + VAT
day of the hearing
All information is correct as of 1st January 2021, but fees are estimates only. For the most accurate fixed fee estimate, please contact the clerks on 020 7832 3200 or via email clerks@4bc.co.uk