Often the terms Barrister and Solicitor are used interchangeably, or you will see a firm advertising they are Barristers and Solicitors. The main difference is that a client cannot engage a Barrister without first engaging a Solicitor. You cannot call a Barrister direct seeking legal advice or assistance.

Generally, a Solicitor is the person that you will work with most, as they will be involved in the day-to-day running of your legal matter. This includes telephone and email communication, drafting correspondence and court documents, and the administrative running of the file. A Solicitor generally only appears in court for preliminary and interim hearings where administrative issues are discussed.

A Barrister, or Counsel, is commonly engaged by a Solicitor for their specialised knowledge on a particular legal issue or to assist the Solicitor in drafting complex legal documents.

Barristers are highly advantageous to have in a legal matter as they have a great deal of knowledge in the relevant legal issue and piloting through the court process.

Each matter and legal issue is different. The more complex they are, the more necessary engaging a Barrister may become.

The Solicitors at Hume Taylor & Co in Adelaide, Whyalla and Millicent are experienced in dealing with a range of Barristers and can assist in any legal matter you may have. Call us on 8223 3199 to make an appointment today.