Unfortunately, we cannot provide free initial legal advice due to professional rules and insurance constraints. However, we offer a brief initial telephone conversation where you can summarise your legal issue. Based on this discussion, we will determine if we can assist you further. If so, we will schedule a virtual meeting to explore your case in more detail.

We normally meet with our clients an hour before the hearing. In family cases this is required in any event. Normally a meeting before can take place online but in some cases if an in-person meeting is required this can be arranged in or around London.

We do not handle legal aid cases directly. However, if we believe you may be eligible for legal aid, we have a professional obligation to inform you of your options.

In most cases, yes. However, there may be instances where we determine that a solicitor is needed for part of the process or to take on the case entirely. In such situations, we will inform you as soon as possible and can recommend a suitable solicitor.

The initial consultation typically lasts between 1-2 hours and is conducted online. The fee for this meeting is £250, payable in advance. Before the consultation, you are expected to send us any relevant paperwork, which we will review beforehand. During the meeting, we will discuss the merits of your case and the best path forward, as well as provide an estimate of costs. It will then be up to you to decide whether to proceed with our services.

In most cases, we offer fixed fees for specific tasks, such as drafting letters, claim forms, or written representations, as well as for representation in court or tribunal. Once agreed, the fixed fee ensures there are no additional charges, even if the work takes longer than anticipated. Occasionally, hourly rates may apply, ranging from £250 to £350 per hour.

Fees must be paid in advance of any work being completed.

Refunds depend on the timing of the adjournment. If it occurs more than 7 days in advance, you will receive a full refund. If the adjournment is between 3-7 days, you will receive a 50% refund. For adjournments less than 3 days before your hearing, the full fee remains applicable.

We strive to ensure your satisfaction at every stage. If you have any concerns or are dissatisfied with any aspect of our work, we encourage you to let us know. Please submit your complaint in writing, and we will work to resolve the matter promptly. We welcome feedback. If we are unable to resolve your issue it is your right to go to the Bar Council and you may also contact the Legal Ombudsman.

No, we specialise exclusively in Family and Immigration law. However, we have established  relationships with colleagues in other legal areas, such as civil work and employment law, and would be happy to refer you to them. Please note that we do not accept referral fees.

While we make every effort to avoid double bookings, they can occur. If this happens, we will do everything possible to find you an alternative barrister from Carnegie or secure another qualified barrister to assist you.