Non-UK Instructions

The global nature of the work we undertake means that we frequently accept instructions directly from lawyers and trade mark and patent attorneys based outside England and Wales. We can also accept instructions directly from companies, persons and firms based outside England and Wales. Accordingly, if you are an overseas client and need advice on a legal issue, we would be very willing to work directly for you. Indeed, Members of Chambers have acted on a direct basis for large substantial foreign companies and often travel abroad to meet them. You will receive expert advice in our specialisms at prices that are very competitive. However, please note that we cannot provide advocacy services on such a basis nor can we in general conduct litigation. In such cases, we have to be instructed through solicitors admitted in England and Wales. We would, of course, be happy to recommend such solicitors who are known to and trusted by us to act in such cases.

Members of Chambers can also act outside England and Wales in foreign proceedings. In those circumstances, the Member concerned will normally need to have been admitted to the local bar (which may or may not be a formality) and to comply with the local bar’s code of conduct.

Members of Chambers are used to acting as expert witnesses in foreign cases which raise issues of English law. For instance, a member has provided expert evidence on English copyright law to the Russian courts.

Finally, please note that we do respect our professional relationships with solicitors, attorneys and lawyers. So a client who is already instructing us through such a professional should not ask us to act directly for them.