GUIDE TO PUBLIC ACCESS
Direct Access Explained
The Public Access scheme allows members of the public to instruct an authorised Barrister directly without first instructing a solicitor, where the case and work are suitable for Public Access. This requires an initial suitability assessment to ensure your case can be safely managed without a solicitor's involvement.
You can learn more about the rules governing Public Access work on the Bar Standards Board website here: Public Access Guidance for Lay Clients
Urgent? Next 14 Days Only
Short-notice enquiries are welcome and will be considered subject to availability and Public Access suitability. Please note: enquiry submission does not confirm representation or create a binding contract; fees must be paid in advance of any hearing.
01
Submit Hearing Details
Provide the specific hearing date, location, and court bundle status. This helps me verify my diary and understand the level of preparation your Family Court case requires.
02
Direct Instruction Review
I will assess if your matter is appropriate for Public Access or if a solicitor is necessary. This ensures you receive the right level of professional support for your specific needs.
03
Fixed-Fee Quote Provided
If suitable, you will receive a transparent, fixed-fee quote for my preparation and advocacy. I operate a clear pricing policy: no hidden costs, with payment required in advance.
04
Instruct & Finalise
Once the fee is paid and the client care letter is signed, my instruction is confirmed. You are then prepared and represented at your hearing by an expert family law barrister.
Client Feedback
★★★★★
Barrister Cheryl Thornley was contracted very late in the day when matters had come to a stalemate in my financial remedy case that was dragging on for over two years. She tackled things head on and was thorough in bringing herself up to speed with the issues of concern, discussing them at length and raising all legal implications.
TRUSTPILOT REVIEW, JULY 2026
★★★★★
Her skillful handling of the case and engagement with the Judge enabled us to cut out any unnecessary bureaucracy and a settlement agreement and order was secured within a couple of days of going to court.
TRUSTPILOT REVIEW JULY 2026
★★★★★
As a victim survivor she has helped me navigate a complex and overwhelming family ( financial) court process and be heard and seen as a litigant in person. Cheryl has a deep and expert knowledge of the Family Courts.
TRUSTPILOT REVIEW, MARCH 2025
Cheryl Thornley
As an independent barrister regulated by the BSB, Cheryl Thornley provides robust advocacy across the Family Courts of England and Wales. Known for her practical, straightforward approach, she specialises in child arrangements and financial remedy cases. Cheryl offers a transparent, modern alternative to using a solicitor by accepting direct instructions through the Public Access scheme, ensuring you have direct access to expert counsel when it matters most.
Cheryl is frequently praised for her reassuring manner and particular expertise in cases involving children with additional needs. Her practice is built on commercial clarity and realistic advice, ensuring self-represented litigants feel fully prepared. Whether handling complex fact-finding hearings or Financial Dispute Resolution hearings, she provides strong with no hidden costs. All work is conducted on a clear fixed-fee basis following a mandatory professional suitability review.
Regulation & Standing
Called to the Bar 2009
LLB (Hons) First Class, BVC
Bar Standards Board (BSB) Regulated
Family Law Bar Association (FLBA)
The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple
Transparency FAQ
How does Public Access work?
Public Access allows you to hire a barrister directly for advice or court representation. It removes the need for a middle-man solicitor, offering a cost-effective, hearing-focused legal service.
How are fees calculated?
I provide fixed-fee quotes based on the complexity and volume of the work. Fees are agreed upon in advance and must be paid before work begins, ensuring absolute financial transparency for every client.
Can you represent me at my next court hearing?
Yes, provided the matter is appropriate for Direct Access. I represent clients in private children, fact-finding, and financial remedy hearings across the courts of England and Wales.
What is the quickest way to check your availability?
Use the availability form immediately. By providing your court location, date, and hearing type, I can quickly determine if I can assist with your specific court date.
Is my case suitable for Direct Access?
Barristers have limits on what they can do; for example, we cannot hold client money or serve court papers. I will assess your case to ensure it is legally appropriate for direct instruction.