The English legal profession is divided into two branches: solicitors and barristers. The reasons for this division are mainly historical, rather than the result of a conscious effort to divide the profession into two distinct parts. The Bar Council (through the Bar Standards Board) regulates barristers and the Law Society (through the Solicitors Regulatory Authority) regulates solicitors.
The Need for Solicitors
Although some tasks must be undertaken by solicitors or barristers—for example, representation in courts—legal representation is not always necessary. Clients may not instruct a UK lawyer in simple matters such as debt repayments. However, if the claim is complex, or the claimant sues for a significant sum of money, they are more likely to seek legal advice. Very often, clients do not feel they have the legal knowledge or skills to represent themselves, and so solicitors can expect regular employment.
What Does a Barrister Do?
There are approximately 16,000 practising barristers who are employed or self-employed in England and Wales. They have their own areas of expertise just as solicitors do. The Bar Council defines barristers as:
“Barristers are specialist legal advisers and court room advocates. They are independent, objective and trained to advise clients on the strengths and weaknesses of their case. They have specialist knowledge and experience in and out of court, which can make a substantial difference to the outcome of a case.”
