Terms of Business

Introduction

This page sets out the terms on which we accept instructions and charge for our services. Our aim is to provide an effective service to both lay and professional clients.

Persons responsible for your work

We will inform you of the person who can deal with your matter if the papers are unassigned and we will tell you if there is any change.

Fees

The basis on which we charge will be based on Counsel's hourly rates unless otherwise agreed for privately funded work. The circumstances that may effect the level of the fees include the monetary amount involved, the importance of the matter itself, the complexity, the specialised expertise required, the number of documents and the degree of urgency.

However, time spent and the level of expertise involved are the most significant factors and this is recorded on the case memoranda.

VAT

VAT is NOT quoted in the fee but will be added unless there is a zero rating or an exemption applies.

Billing and payment

Unless we inform you otherwise in writing our practice is to bill matters when each item of work is completed and thereafter one month later when the recommended Bar Council procedure will commence. Unless otherwise agreed in writing all privately funded cases are for payment within one month. We reserve the right to charge interest for late payment at 2% over The Bank of England base rate.

There is a presumption in privately paying cases that you have been put in funds prior to instructing Counsel. Solicitors are reminded of their personal obligation to pay Counsel's fees.

Termination of instructions

Ideally Counsel will continue to act until the conclusion of the case or instructions terminate. You will be contacted as soon as practically possible if a case has to be returned and your agreement sought as to alternative Counsel.

Problems

If you have problems with any of our services please contact the Senior Clerk (Peter Nixon) and/or the Head of Chambers (Dr. Roger Smithers) in the first instance. We operate the Bar Council's complaint procedure. Information passed to us is kept confidential and will not be disclosed to others unless authorised by you or required by law.