Survey Of Barristers' Chambers - 2012/13 - Strategic Thinking Is Required

Almost two-thirds of chambers taking part in our survey report rising revenues in recent years, a finding consistent with figures from The Bar Council. However, while aggregate revenues are up, so is membership. Between 2005 and 2010, the number of practising barristers and QCs rose by 4% and 10% respectively. As a result there is an oversupply of barristers and individual incomes are down.

Government, individuals and companies are cutting costs, lawyers are being squeezed and there are high-profile casualties even among the larger firms of solicitors. Solicitors are keen to negotiate better rates, while the Government and local authorities are introducing block contracts and fixed fees. This combination of oversupply of barristers, cuts to legal aid, fiercer competition and economic downturn has resulted in near universal (99% of respondents) pressure on fees.