What is the starting point for accepting a brief to appear from a solicitor?

• A. Rule 24
• B. Rule 21
• C. Rule 101
• D. Rule 16

Answer: (B)

The starting point is Rule 21. When a solicitor offers a brief to appear, the first thing to check is that the solicitor has proper authority to engage you and that there are clear instructions from the client. This establishes a legitimate basis to act and protects the integrity of the instruction chain and client confidentiality. Only after confirming authority and instructions should you move on to other practical steps like discussing fees, availability, and potential conflicts.

Other rules cover related but different aspects, such as how to handle conflicts or conduct in other contexts, but they don’t set the initial threshold for accepting a brief from a solicitor.