Short answer
Send the order requiring submissions, pleadings, evidence, authorities, hearing date and a short list of the issues you need the skeleton argument to address.
Quick checklist
Start with these
What A Skeleton Argument Is
A skeleton argument is usually a concise written structure for the legal and factual points to be made at a hearing. It is not a substitute for the evidence, pleadings or court order, and the format may depend on the court, tribunal and directions.
When A Barrister May Help
A barrister may draft, settle or review a skeleton argument for a defined hearing where Direct Access is suitable. They may also identify missing evidence, weak points, procedural risks or authorities that need checking before the document is finalised.
What To Send First
The first pack should let the barrister see the procedural stage, the decision the court is being asked to make and the material already filed.
- Court or tribunal order requiring the skeleton argument.
- Claim, defence, application, appeal or response documents.
- Witness statements, exhibits, expert reports and key correspondence.
- Any bundle index, draft chronology, list of issues or previous submissions.
- Exact filing, service and hearing dates.
Scope The Quote Carefully
Say whether you need a first draft, a review of an existing draft, authorities checked, advocacy at the hearing or advice on whether the application should be narrowed. Scope and fee should be agreed before work starts.
Review Notes
Civil, family, tribunal and appellate courts may have different rules, practice directions and judge-specific directions for skeleton arguments. The relevant current order and procedural rules should be checked before filing.
Editorial status: source and legal review required. No completed legal review is claimed.
Skeleton Argument Barrister Guide FAQs
Can a Direct Access barrister write a skeleton argument?
A barrister may be able to draft or review a skeleton argument where the matter is suitable for Direct Access and the papers and deadline are clear.
Is a skeleton argument legal advice?
A skeleton argument is a litigation document. This guide is general information only; legal advice is provided only if a barrister accepts instructions and agrees the scope.
How early should I ask for help?
As early as possible. Include the filing deadline, hearing date and order setting the requirements because urgent drafting may not be available.
Ask For A Barrister Quote
Barristers4U helps clients request a quote from a suitable Direct Access barrister. The information on this page is general information only, not legal advice about your individual circumstances.
If your matter is urgent, include hearing dates, court deadlines, orders and any documents you already have when you submit your enquiry.
