Role of Counsel
Advocates, also known as "Counsel", are independent lawyers who have rights of audience allowing them to represent parties in court. A QC, or Queen's Counsel, is a senior advocate who has been awarded the title in recognition of his or her experience and ability. Advocates can appear in all courts, such as the Sheriff Court, Court of Session, House of Lords and European Court of Justice.
When instructed to conduct a case, an advocate will appear in court for his or her client, draft written documents for lodging in court, recommend necessary investigations and give advice on strategy and prospects of success. Advocates can be instructed alone, but in more complex cases a QC and a Junior Counsel will often be instructed to appear together.
Advocates also work outside the normal court system. They are often instructed to appear at planning or licensing hearings, arbitrations and mediations.
On many occasions, advocates will also provide advice both in person and in writing on questions of law as well as on broader strategic considerations, which can help to resolve a dispute, in its early stages, without the need for litigation or other formal dispute resolution.
Advocates are also frequently instructed to advise in non-contentious matters and to assist clients in the carrying out of complex commercial transactions.
In short, Axiom advocates can and do provide high quality independent legal advice and representation in any situation in which it will be of assistance to their clients.
Advocates are usually instructed through solicitors and work alongside them. However, many organisations can now instruct Counsel directly (see Direct Access). For more information on how you can engage an advocate, please contact one of our clerking team.