The Bar of Northern Ireland has developed and launched a new website which can be accessed at www.barofni.org
The new website was developed in partnership with Bangor based web development agency EyeKiller and offers a range of new and enhanced features including intuitive navigation, relevant, informative and engaging content and optimal use of immersive media rich formats.
Chief Executive of the Bar of Northern Ireland, David Mulholland details how the project has enabled the organisation to improve its online presence but also has created an opportunity to more closely align the website and digital communications with the core values and functions of the Bar of Northern Ireland, seeking to understand as well as to be understood.
David Mulholland said: “The development of the new Bar of Northern Ireland website was guided and project managed with expertise by EyeKiller. The Bar was proud to partner with a local industry leader, and a company which deployed strategic thinking, creativity and technical excellence in project design and delivery.
“EyeKiller profiled our website visitors and assisted us in better understanding their needs. This was the corner stone of the project, providing the data and insights to inform decision-making on user experience processes.
“This work reinforced the need to provide information on the range of Bar Council functions – as the representative body of the profession but also as a regulator. Whether a business or individual, our clients will have placed their trust in a barrister to help find a solution to a problem.
“In return, the client is entitled to receive high standards of work, competently and diligently undertaken and with a demonstrable commitment to always acting in their best interests.
“The website has been designed to allow the Bar to provide greater transparency and information about how the profession is regulated, driving the highest standards of professional service; and how barristers are held to account if there are any departures from those standards.
“The new website also demonstrates how the Bar Council connects with policy and decision makers, transferring knowledge on issues relating to our legal and justice systems. It does this through a curated space for thought leadership and policy positions, enabling audiences to access informed and independent interpretation of key issues, rather than simplified media soundbites.
Defining Access to Justice
“Access to justice is often connected to crime, punishment and the criminal justice system, and less commonly to commercial or business matters.
“However, access to justice through expert legal advice and representation in commercial matters is also of prime importance. The work of barristers in these areas can prevent costly, complex, and time-consuming legal disputes, fostering broader economic growth and attracting inward investment.
“It has been proven that the benefits of substantive access to justice extend well beyond legal matters which are most often considered as ‘personal’.
“A well-functioning justice system with substantive access to justice enhances trust in public institutions, cuts across all parts of our region and is essential for stable societies, thriving economies, supporting entrepreneurship and opportunities for all.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
“The Bar of Northern Ireland continues its proud history of assisting clients to find the most effective solutions to difficulties or disputes. Many of our members have diversified their traditional barrister practices and are adept at applying their skills to dispute resolution outside of the courtroom.
“Alternative dispute resolution facilitates constructive and efficient alternatives to litigation, delivered by specialists committed to high quality dispute resolution and is often undertaken with local business and commercial entities.
Closing Justice and Engagement Gaps
“The Bar of Northern Ireland advocates for a reduction in justice gaps across all areas of the provision of legal services.
“Closing these gaps involves being aware of and responsive to the ever-evolving needs of citizens across the jurisdiction. Our digital communications tools are an important element of our engagement activities and connecting with the communities we serve.
Seeking to Understand and to be Understood
“The Bar of Northern Ireland has a proud, positive and strategic vision for the administration of justice across Northern Ireland. The website project has allowed us to share improved public awareness of the work of barristers and professional entry routes, including support for aspiring and new barristers, breaking down myths and stereotypes concerning a career at the Bar.
“A new Bar Council takes effect in September of this year, and will be ably led by new Chair Denise Kiley KC and Vice Chair Martin Wolfe KC. Seeking first to understand and to be understood will be a key action in the time ahead.”