An introduction to in-house advocacy as an essential tool in litigation under the Civil Procedure Rules.
Whilst many lawyers remain distracted by the debate about the future of the Independent Bar and fusion of the legal professions, an increasing number of their clients appreciate their needs are best met by a service which offers total flexibility and choice.
With these needs in mind, Hammond Suddards launched their in-house advocacy service in November 1999. Offering direct in-house access to advocates including barristers and solicitors with rights of audience in the Higher Courts, Hammond Suddards is able to provide an integrated service for all types of dispute resolution.
There is no doubt that the Woolf Reforms require greater input from advocates, and at an earlier stage in the litigation process. The advocate is required to have an up-to-date and in-depth knowledge of the case however minor the court appearance, so that in many cases the seamless service provided by the in-house advocate will give the client both a leading edge in the litigation, and a real cost saving.
Of course, on some occasions the Independent Bar can offer a cheaper service, although perhaps not as often as first appears, once the ‘hidden’ cost of preparing detailed written instructions is taken into account. But where it can do so, without compromising on quality, the client needs, and must expect from his solicitor, accurate and informed guidance as to which barrister to use.
There have been some suggestions from the Independent Bar that clients will be compulsorily ‘tied in’ to the use of in-house advocates, but that would be foolish. Clients properly expect choice and the ‘best man for the job’ in every circumstance. Clients who have tried an in-house service have been quick to appreciate the practicality and real value for money which it offers: a seamless and integrated service resulting in a reduction in duplication of work and with continuous focus and risk analysis.
The final decision is for the client. His first decision should be to make sure that his preferred solicitors offer him the choice.
The information and opinions contained in this article are provided by Hammond Suddards. They should not be applied to any particular set of facts without appropriate legal or other professional advice.
For further information please contact Patrick Walker, Director for Advocacy.
