Is it worth paying for a good barrister?

[Mattmans1]

Im just wondering, ill be in court probably next year under an abh and gbh charge. im just wondering if its worth paying the extras and getting a good barrister to do what he can for me, im pleading guilty but hoping to avoid a custodial sentance. I have legal aid atm and im a final year student. What are the advantages of good barristers/legal team, compared to free ones? even though im pleading guilty. Also hopw much would i expect to pay?

[Ice.Maiden]

I'm not a a solicitor Mattmans, but because of the abh AND gbh charges against you, I doubt whether forking out'd be of any use. Charges vary anyway, from hundreds to many thousands of pounds.
Is this your first offence? At least you're pleading guilty, which should be taken into consideration, however much you do, or don't pay.

[terambulan]

Wots the advantage of a guilty plea.....there's always extenuating circumstances, provocation/self defence. CAB could advise and police have to offer legal services.

[Ethel]

The advantage of a guilty plea is a reduction in the length of the sentence but it is pointless paying out the literally thousands of pounds for a top notch barrister if you are pleading guilty.

CAB won't give better advice than the solicitor you already have provided by legal aid.

[sara3]

http://www.sentencing-guidelines.gov.uk/docs/R eduction%20in%20Sentence-final.pdf

this is a lengthy document, but explains the reductions in sentencing depending on what stage you plead guilty. if you plead guilty at the earliest opportunity you will get 30% off your sentence.

[ummmm]

Red....You don't know the circumstances. Don't be so quick to judge.

[Barmaid]

Most barristers who do crime do legal aid and privately paid work. You will get the same service from your barrister irrespective of whether it is legal aid or private - we do not differentiate between them because all clients are entitled to expect the best. So if you paid extra, chances are you would get a barrister who does legal aid work anyway (I am not aware that there are any who do solely private defence work, we are not permitted to choose like that).

Personally, I would stick with what you have.

[SHELLP]

Dont pay for a barrister dont plead guilty just go to court and lie you will get not guilty.