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A barrister is a lawyer found in many common law jurisdictions which employ a "split profession" (as opposed to a "fused profession") in relation to legal representation. In split professions, the other type of lawyer is the solicitor. Solicitors have more direct contact with the clients, whereas barristers often only become involved in a case in order to provide any advocacy needed by the client. Barristers are rarely, if ever, instructed by clients directly. Instead, the client's solicitors will instruct a barrister on behalf of the client when appropriate.