An enterprising Worcester barrister has begun offering his services to solicitors with a money-back guarantee, in what is believed to be the first such arrangement.

Nick Wright, who practises from virtual set Clerksroom, based in Taunton, offers solicitors a full refund if they are not satisfied with the quality and timeliness of his service. He may extend the offer to public access work.

Wright, called to the bar in 2007, told the Gazette that the arrangement is not to be confused with a conditional fee agreement. ‘I work in a service industry so I try to offer a service over and above that given by others.

‘If solicitors don’t get the service they expect, they don’t have to pay,’ he added.

Wright started offering the deal last month and said no one has yet asked for their money back.

Meanwhile, online matchmaking site MyBarrister is seeking ‘crowdfunding’ of £150,000 to challenge the role of solicitors as first port of call for legal advice. It claims more than 100 barristers have signed up, including 12 QCs.

Barristers pay £1,200 per year to be part of the service, which can also be used by solicitors looking to instruct counsel.