What is a barrister primarily hired for?

A barrister is primarily hired to represent clients in higher courts. This specialist role involves presenting cases, providing expert legal arguments, and cross-examining witnesses during trials. Barristers have extensive training in advocacy and are typically engaged for their skills in courtroom representation, particularly in complex cases that require detailed legal knowledge and experience.

While preparing legal documentation is an important aspect of legal work, it is generally the role of solicitors to handle these tasks. Mediating disputes is a function more commonly associated with mediators or solicitors who may facilitate negotiations outside of court. Additionally, working solely within the Magistrate's Court is not a defining characteristic of a barrister's role, as they operate in a variety of courts, especially the higher courts such as Crown Courts and appellate courts. Thus, the primary purpose of hiring a barrister is centered around their advocacy and representation in more significant legal proceedings.