In a relatively small market for legal services such as New Zealand it is not uncommon for counsel from the same chambers to be retained in opposing roles in the same matter (e.g. the Viagra/Cialis litigation). Indeed even in a market like London, it is not infrequent that counsel from the same chambers appear against one another.

As barristers are independent practitioners, not partners, this is both a predictable occurrence and one that is entirely permissible ethically, so long as proper procedures are adopted to prevent the release of confidential information.

To protect clients against the inadvertent release of confidential information, Stout Street Chambers has adopted a strict Confidentiality Policy, based on the guidelines issued by the Bar Council of England and Wales. A copy of that policy is available on request.