Among the very few professionals who evoke respect and awe, Barristers count as one of them. The notion that this is a “predominantly white Oxbridge educated elitist profession for the men” is now being increasingly challenged by a large number of women and people from diverse backgrounds. But finding the right barrister can be a difficult task, especially given the fact that there are several thousand barristers and several hundred barristers’ chambers, in the country. So what are the skills that you think helps to identity a good barrister

Listening, I’d say. A barrister, who listens to the client, listens to the judge, the witnesses, the solicitor, the clerk…and everyone in general. Of course, this skill isn’t something that’s evident unless you observe proceedings conducted by the barrister, or have spoken to him. Unknowing to them, people often drop subtle hints and clues that can bring about a breakthrough in the case. When speaking to you, or the solicitor, a good barrister makes sure that he does not interrupt and can recall the minutest aspect of the conversation. And this’ll surely help, because some experienced barristers are known to offer decisive advice, just by listening to the client and looking at the papers.

Another important skill that’ll help you ascertain a good barrister is to check the manner in which he constructs an argument. The ability to construct a good argument is a decisive factor in a case. More than often, an argument that is constructed and presented well, helps to win over the jury and the judge, even when the facts of the case aren’t so favorable. Barristers who can successfully persuade the client to understand the view of their client aren’t a rarity and it certainly helps to find one.

A barrister does not directly deal with the client; it’s the solicitor who does so. Most solicitors have well established relationships with barristers and can help you find one. Besides solicitors, the Bar Council also has a scheme where people can get direct access to barristers. Earlier, the interaction between clients and barristers was restricted. But now thanks to The Public Access Rules, 2004, clients can now interact and instruct directly to a barrister.

Would you prefer a barrister to plead your case with confidence or in a weak cowardly manner? Needless to say, the former! When you speak to a barrister, make sure he speaks with authority on the subject. His confidence would help him with public speaking and hence is sure to speak eloquently.

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Henry Winters

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