Applied to court now, can I change solicitors now?

Hi All,
I am fearing the worst,coz, now that we are near the Final hearing, the solicitor has arranged A Barrister - and wants payment upfront: for the Barrister fee,for 3 hours,,, well 10 days ahead.
Just so perplexed,, and Need All the help I can avail.
Thanks, N

Sorry, I'm not sure I understand what the problem is. Your solicitor requires money on account to pay the barrister fee for a final hearing. What are you not happy about?

I can highly recommend having a barrister, even if it does cost a fortune...sprat to catch a mackerel!

Hi B,
the Solicitor has organised for a Barrister- to represent myself, however wants the fees for that day, up front {and not after the services are rendered},
And I was wondering if that is normal practice,,
Or should I go for the Wikivorce Financial Settlement Clean Break Order?
The FH is on 21st of this month,
Please do let me know your thoughts,
Court bundle is already filed.
Thanks,
N

I would agree with you....pay for service after you had received it? I paid for my barrister after she had done her job. I have no idea how it "Normally works"?

A huge thanks to you U, and B,
I will try to negotiate accordingly,,
and will do my best,
Thanks again,
N

It is normal for barristers to take payment at time of booking. They have a lot of prep to do in the days leading to the hearing. They are self employed and risk having to chase bad debt if the final hearing leaves their client worse off. So yes Their t&c's may well ask for payment in advance.

Unless you have reached an agreement with your ex, you have no choice but to go to a final hearing and it sounds like everything is in place for that. Personally, I think your solicitor knows your case and has it prepared, has advised and recommended a barrister, so this sounds like the best course of action. If you are uncertain about the barrister, raise this with the solicitor and discuss whether they will consider different payment options. Ask if there will be a conference with the barrister ahead of the hearing so that you have a chance to meet them and discuss the case. Hopefully that will put your mind at ease somewhat.

The lead up the the FH is very stressful and the anxiety can be immense. Take deep breaths and trust your advisors.

Best of luck!
B xx