Government funding for criminal legal aid has been slashed relentlessly over the past decade. If you have to appear before the criminal courts, and have an income or access to funds, paying privately for a decent service may well mean the difference between being found guilty and being acquitted.
The cost of instructing a barrister directly may not be as high as you imagine. Andrew can offer daily rates, and may be able to reduce costs in certain circumstances.

You may decide that it’s worth investing in your future.