DIRECT ACCESS
How to Instruct Barristers
The Bar is conventionally seen as a ‘referral’ institution in Hong Kong. The position is the same in the UK. Customarily, client access to Parkside’s members is facilitated via Solicitors, the Director of Legal Aid or the Government.
Barristers may however take on instructions directly from certain designated institutions and in other cases. Members of Chambers can also act as arbitrators, mediators, adjudicators, and umpires in the context of alternative dispute resolution (ADR).
Confidentiality and Independence
Client confidentiality is paramount to all members at Parkside. The duty of confidentiality is a mainstay and a core pillar of the administration of justice. Parkside is made up of close to 50 barristers who are individual practitioners. They are self-employed and operate as sole proprietorships (that is, they operate independently).
Members from Parkside have joined together to share premises and expenses and they practice within Chambers independently of other members. It is central to their practice that they keep client affairs confidential and maintain their independence. Parkside’s members and staff ensure compliance with these professional standards and duties and avoid conflicts of interest at all times.
