For many years now a number of leading sets in the commercial Bar have striven to throw off the old-fashioned, fusty image of barristers and establish their credentials as modern, forward-thinking providers of professional services.
In many ways it appears to have worked, at least with in-house lawyers, if not the public at large. A confidential snapshot poll by Legal Director of general counsel at Ftse 100 and other large UK businesses has found that two-thirds of those polled take advantage of direct access regulations and instruct the Bar themselves.
