Public Access training for barristers and clerks.
Public Access allows barristers to take instructions directly from certain clients without a solicitor intermediary, provided they undertake BSB-accredited training. Briefed's Public Access training for Barristers is BSB approved and can be completed at any time. Barristers can only accept Public Access instructions after completing accredited training.
Clerks handling Public Access instructions need their own dedicated training in how to manage direct access instructions on behalf of their members. We provide a specific Public Access training course for clerks. Both of our courses meet the BSB's training requirements. We also provide ongoing advisory and support.
What the BSB requires for Public Access.
Public Access is valuable for clients seeking direct access to legal expertise and for barristers developing their client base.
The BSB requires that before a barrister accepts any Public Access instruction, they must complete BSB-accredited Public Access training and comply with specific rules on client information, written terms, complaints handling, and fee disputes. Barristers who breach these rules face regulatory action.
Clerks handling Public Access instructions need training too. They must understand what is permitted, how to record instructions correctly, how to handle complaints, and when to refer matters to the barrister or the compliance team.
What this means in practice.
A barrister receives an email from a charity asking for advice on employment law. Before accepting that instruction, the barrister must have completed BSB-accredited Public Access training and must provide the client with written terms, information about fees, and details of complaints procedures.
Clerks need to understand which clients are eligible for Public Access, what information must be recorded, and what happens if a client complains. In chambers where Public Access is a significant part of practice, clerk training and clear procedures are essential.
Chambers should have a Public Access policy covering eligibility criteria, fee arrangements, complaints handling, and when disputes go to the Legal Ombudsman. The policy should be reviewed regularly as BSB rules evolve.
What Briefed offers for Public Access.
BSB-accredited training
We provide BSB-accredited Public Access Training for barristers. Both the barrister and clerk modules can be completed at any time, anywhere and are updated when BSB rules change. Upon completion members can take direct access instructions immediately. Briefed is the only dedicated chambers compliance provider offering BSB-accredited, on-demand Public Access training.
Advice & Support
Barrister-led advice on Public Access eligibility decisions, fee arrangements, complaints handling, and specific client situations. Available by phone and email at short notice.
Document creation and review
Chambers-specific Public Access policies covering eligible clients, fee frameworks, instruction procedures, complaints processes, client care letters and Legal Ombudsman referral.
Public Access is a growth opportunity for chambers.
Barristers with BSB-accredited Public Access training can accept direct instructions from businesses, charities, and other eligible clients. This expands the client base and creates new revenue without relying on solicitor referrals.
Chambers with strong Public Access programmes and trained clerks attract barristers looking to grow their practice. Clear procedures and compliant operations reduce regulatory risk and allow barristers to focus on the work.