What is the difference between a solicitor and a barrister?

Unless you are involved in the legal system, the difference between a solicitor and barrister is something a lot of people will not know.

Many of us will have used a conveyancing solicitor when moving home but solicitors also specialise in the following areas of law; civil and commercial litigation, tax, property, fraud, crime, wills and probate, family law, employment, immigration, and personal injury.

If you are involved in an accident or have been injured through no fault of your own, you are likely to need legal representation.

Your injuries may make it impossible for you to return to work or have a life-changing impact. If the accident was not your fault you could be due financial compensation and you will need a personal injury specialist solicitor to navigate the complex legal system and get the right evidence to compile your case for you.

Solicitors and barristers are both types of lawyer employed to work in the legal system. Solicitors tend to have more direct contact with the client, preparing their case. A barrister will represent the client in a court room setting if required. The majority of the cases at NV Legal are settled out of court so it is unlikely that you will need to attend court in person.

What are the differences between a solicitor and a barrister?

Solicitor

Solicitors are qualified legal professionals who provide advice and support to clients on legal matters. They compile a case and prepare legal documentation to represent or defend the client.

What does a personal injury solicitor do?

  • Provide legal representation for clients whose injuries have been caused because of someone else’s actions
  • Work closely with the client on a day-to-day basis
  • Provide legal advice on the case
  • Collect evidence including medical reports, witness statements and documentation
  • Liaise with medical professionals, insurance companies and other legal parties
  • Calculate claims for damages
  • Complete all paperwork, check legal documents, and prepare documentation for court
  • Negotiate with the defendant
  • Attend court at directions hearings, applications and infant settlement approval hearings

Barrister

In more complex cases, solicitors will instruct a barrister to provide advice on a case and/or to represent their client in court. The barrister provides specialist advice, prepares the formal court documents and gives expert opinion in relation to the case.

What does a personal injury barrister do?

  • Often specialise in a particular area of law
  • Draft pleadings
  • Represent the client in court
  • Provide legal arguments on behalf of the client
  • Understand all facts of the case and key law principles
  • Cross examines the defendant and their witnesses in court
  • Negotiate a settlement
  • Usually self-employed working in ‘chambers’ with other barristers

Personal injury solicitors at NV Legal have more than 20 years’ experience representing clients in injury cases. Visit the testimonial page on our website to view some of our successful outcomes – SUCCESS STORIES

For further information on personal injury compensation contact NV Legal for a FREE consultation:

Call – 03330 112732

Email – info@nvlegal.co.uk

Website – www.nvlegal.co.uk

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