What Does Authorisation To Conduct Litigation Mean?
Some barristers can conduct litigation as well as provide advocacy. Learn what the authorisation means and how it can change the structure of a Direct Access criminal case.
Advocacy and litigation are different functions
A barrister traditionally provides legal advice and represents clients at hearings, while a solicitor normally manages the case file and associated procedural work. Litigation authorisation gives an eligible barrister additional authority to carry out those case-management functions.
What can the practice do?
Where suitable, an authorised practice can issue proceedings, file and serve court documents, correspond with the court and prosecution and handle disclosure alongside advocacy.
Does every case suit this model?
No. The appropriate structure depends on the complexity of the case. Larger trials, multiple defendants and matters requiring a wider support team may be better suited to a solicitor-led model.
How is suitability assessed?
Astons Law Chambers discusses suitability during the initial call and can refer a matter to a partner solicitor firm where a solicitor is the better fit.