The cost of an Ampersand Advocate

Instructing counsel is very often money well spent. If it is not, we will tell you because that is what best practice demands.

Best practice also means transparency of cost. Our fees are usually discussed and agreed with our clerks. Fees are normally fixed on a case-by-case basis, whether that means in advance, such as at hourly or daily rates, or fixed fees for certain pieces of work. It is also possible to retain an Ampersand Advocate for a particular case or client, which may be subject to a retainer.

Each Ampersand Advocate is an independent practitioner and as such fees depends upon their particular level of expertise and the nature and complexity of the case.

For private work, fees can be negotiated at rates representing excellent value for money. In legally aided work, fees are subject to statutory regulation. In cases where neither private funding nor legal aid is available our Advocates may be prepared to act on a speculative or no win no fee basis.

It is normal practice for members of the Faculty of Advocates to charge a daily rate for hearings which includes preparation. In particularly large cases additional preparation days may be charged. Again, this will be discussed with you by our clerks. Where a court hearing is cancelled close to its date, a commitment fee may be charged for the time booked out of the Advocate’s diary. In long cases an Advocate may seek to agree a commitment or brief fee. Our clerks can discuss this in greater detail and agree alternative fee structures to suit the needs of the client and the case.

Detailed arrangements relating to Counsel’s fees are embodied in the Formal Scheme issued by the Faculty of Advocates, which includes deferment of the payment of certain types of fees. Contact our clerks for more details.