To want a new barrister because he touched me

[Crookedcolours]

Lots of context which I don't want to go into but basically on top of a very distressing court hearing (ptsd, discussing serious sexual offences) my male barrister touched my back as we were walking out of court for a few seconds.

Aibu to ask for a new barrister because of this and generally making me feel intimidated and unprotected in court (having unnecessary chats with my ex) pressuring me to drop allegations etc

Barristers are there to get best outcome for their client. If you don't think that is happening here, then say so, but be prepared for an explanation that suggests they working in your best interests all along.

Get some sleep, OP, and maybe look afresh tomorrow?

But that's the thing he was trying to put doubts in my mind but it is wrong for him to do that

This is not necessarily true. If (and I'm not saying it's your situation) a barrister feels that there is not enough evidence or your case isn't strong enough to get a conviction, they are duty bound to tell you. They'll try to point out the weaknesses in your story so that you understand the strength of your case. A situation can be as true and real as can be, but that doesn't always equal a conviction.

As far as touching you, it sounds to me as if he needs educating. But that touch combined with you feeling as if he doesn't support your case would be enough to make anyone lose confidence.

ok as someone who literally jumps out of my skin when touched (similar reasons) i understand how you feel.

however, i would not insist on anything and speak to your solicitor. The barrister will not have purposely done anything to harm you or upset you, as it won't help the case.

you may not be allowed to change, the delay may have a serious detriment to the case, not to mention angering the judge.

ps no body stands up to the judge,

i would try to calmly think about what your main objective is- don't insist on winning a battle if it will make you loose the war.

@RoboticMary you are being ignorant of what the symptoms of ptsd are if you think that the OP is merely questioning his motives. It's got nothing to do with that. If she was able to think rationally, she wouldn't have posed the question. Your comment of 'don't make it onto a bigger deal than it is...' proves my point that you do not understand.

My husband tapped me on the back of my neck last week (not maliciously) I spent the following 4 hours curled up in bed contemplating suicide. That's what ptsd does to you!

I’m not ignorant, no, far from it. My experiences are just different from yours. We all deal with things in our different ways.

What a thick as shit barrister to not know in his fucking infinite wisdom better than to make physical contact with victims of abuse, what a fucking prick frankly.

He should not be speaking to your attacker!!

Most importantly, you are not comfortable. That matters, that's everything, act on it and empower yourself. Kick his arse into touch and get a professional on side