Whether you need a solicitor or a barrister depends on the specific legal matter and the jurisdiction. In general, solicitors are the first point of contact for legal advice and assistance, and they can handle a wide range of legal matters, including:
- Providing legal advice and guidance
- Drafting legal documents and contracts
- Representing clients in negotiations and disputes
- Assisting with property transactions, such as buying or selling a house
- Handling family law matters, such as divorce or child custody arrangements
- Assisting with wills and probate matters
On the other hand, barristers are specialist advocates who solicitors typically instruct to represent clients in court. They have expertise in specific areas of the law and are often involved in complex cases that require specialist legal knowledge and skills. Barristers may also provide legal advice but do not generally handle routine legal matters.
In summary, if you require general legal advice or assistance, a solicitor can help you. You may need to engage a barrister if you need specialist legal representation or advice. However, in many cases, a solicitor can also provide representation in court. Hence, it is best to seek advice from a legal professional who can assess your needs and recommend the most appropriate action.