In terms of the law there is a strong distinction between a barrister and a solicitor.

Barristers work in private legal practice as independent and sole practitioners. Their independence is very important and taken very seriously.

A barrister's principal tasks involve appearing in court or in front of tribunals.

However barristers can also offer specialist legal advice. They can also facilitate mediation (as a mediator) or act as an arbitrator, referee or conciliator.

Some barristers work for the government in a full time capacity. However they have passed a test for statutory independence.