Barristers vs Solicitors
Ireland has a split legal profession. Solicitors deal directly with clients. Barristers specialise in court advocacy and are typically instructed by solicitors.
The Law Library
Most Irish barristers are members of the Law Library at the Four Courts, Dublin — approximately 1,700 members. Regulated by the Bar of Ireland.
King's Inns
To become a barrister, you complete the Barrister-at-Law degree at King's Inns and are called to the Bar as Junior Counsel (BL). Senior Counsel (SC) is the senior grade.
When Do You Need a Barrister?
High Court or Supreme Court litigation, complex criminal trials, Circuit Court appeals, specialist legal opinions. For most District Court matters and routine transactions, a solicitor alone suffices.
Direct Brief System
Since 2014, certain clients can instruct barristers directly. Most still go through a solicitor first.