Questions about joining our panel?
We have tried to provide a brief guide to the most commonly asked questions from potential volunteer barristers. Should we not answer your query here please do not hesitate to contact Rachael@barprobono.org.uk
How much time do I have to commit?
We ask all panel members to commit to helping for a minimum of three days each year, though some will do a lot more. As a volunteer you will only be contacted with cases that fit your expertise and experience and you can decide whether you are able to assist.
How experienced do I need to be?
We accept panel members from the second sixth of pupillage to QC. Every case the Unit accepts specifies the number of years call needed from a suitable volunteer.
Am I obliged to take on a case that the Unit contacts me about?
No, we understand that you may not be available to take on a particular piece of work. Which cases you choose to assist with is entirely up to you.
What happens when the Unit accepts a case I could do?
The Unit may telephone your clerk or contact you directly enquiring as to your availability and interest in that piece of work.
I may be able to take on a case, what happens now?
The caseworker will send you the relevant papers to consider, together with the Unit's review. We ask panel members to get back to us with their decision within 48 hours of receiving the papers.
I have agreed to do a piece of work on a Unit case, what are the next steps?
The applicant is given your details and details of the assistance which the Unit has authorised you to provide. You are instructed directly by the client via the Unit's direct access licence. A client relationship will so arise and the Unit drops into the background unless there is a specific issue we can help with.
When I commit to helping on a case do I to see it to completion?
No. The Unit authorises work on cases on a step-by-step basis and you will only be asked to complete defined work, not to make an open-ended commitment. If you wish to take on any further work in connection to the same case this may be possible however the Unit will have to re-review the file to approve further work before that assistance is given.
What are my professional obligations in pro bono cases?
By agreeing to take on a piece of work from the Unit you commit yourself to treating it with the same care and attention given to any other piece of paid work. The Bar Pro Bono Unit jointly developed the Joint Pro Bono Protocol to set out best practice standards for pro bono work. To view this please click here