This article, “Chambers offers advice through ‘video surgeries'” caught my eye in this weeks Law Gazette (20th July 2015) – http://www.lawgazette.co.uk/practice/chambers-offers-legal-advice-through-video-surgeries/5050109.article In an attempt to become the first port of call for legal services, direct access barristers at ShenSmith Chambers (the virtual chambers) are offering advice via ‘video surgeries’.
The initial free consultation lasts 15 minutes, and members of the public can speak with barristers via a tool on their website with the aim/intention that these people will then instruct the barristers directly.
One of the aims behind this project comes from the director of ShenSmith’s director, Jonathan Maskew, who is keen to ‘reinvent the position of barristers’ through direct access. He also stated that ‘clients take comfort from getting advice early’, and that is why he believes that clients should instruct barristers before getting a solicitor involved. S
o far more than 100 potential clients have expressed an interest in the service provided. There are also no areas of law off limits, and the ‘video surgeries’ are open to everyone but their primary focus is businesses which are worried about the ‘clock-ticking’ when they seek advice via solicitors first.
If you want any more info I just headed over to their website – http://www.shensmithbarristers.co.uk and you can find out more info about their ‘video surgeries’ and what they offer! Is this a sign of things to come?
Will more consultations and appointments be held via video and similar programmes to Skype? Would love to know your thoughts.
Rebecca x