Direct Access Portal, enabling direct contact with barristers, receives Bar Council’s support
updated on 03 July 2015
A website which enables customers to get in direct contact with barristers has received the support of the Bar Council.
The Direct Access Portal (DAP) allows businesses and individuals to access barristers' services directly without first going through a solicitor. The DAP was created by two barristers, Pru Beever and Mik Whyatt, who have now joined with the Bar Council to make the website the main hub for finding a barrister, replacing the Bar Council’s existing online service. Some 300 barristers are currently listed on the DAP, with more set to join following the endorsement of the Bar Council.
Alistair MacDonald QC, chairman of the Bar, said: "Innovation in the barristers’ profession is clearly alive and well. The Direct Access Portal was designed with one aim in mind; to make it easier for the public to access the quality services that barristers provide. There are now thousands of barristers able to provide legal advice and other services directly to members of the public, potentially saving them money in the process. This portal will act as the point of access to these barristers."
