Skip to Content

Legal Aid update

March 2015


Solicitors attempts to overturn the governments plans to cut the number of legal aid contracts by over 60% have failed, the 60% cut represents over 1000 legal aid contracts going, which is felt will seriously affect the access to justice.

Ironically the judge at the court of appeal dismissed the appeal on the basis that the plans were legally flawed.

The concern with the cuts are that a number of firms will go out of business and access to a solicitor will be restricted, it will be interesting to see how this will work if the accused has a right to a solicitor, will they just have to wait, or just be told one is not available?

I Feel the government has got this cut wrong, access to justice is a fundamental right, in a time when we celebrate 800 years since the signing of the Magna Carta, bringing the right to justice and the end to illegal imprisonment, we should be concerned about taking a step backwards, over the years many firms of solicitors have given up their legal aid contracts because the rates are so poor, now it seems the government are intent on damaging the core of the criminal legal system.

The solicitors taking the action against the government are set to consider their position and may take the case to the Supreme Court.


Image Description
related news
recent articles
Double Jeopardy Law

What is Double Jeopardy? and is it still Law in the UK?..

link

Stalking and Harassment.

Recent report uncovers failings by the police and prosecution service...

Bail

What is Bail in the UK - If you have been charged with a crime you can be released on bail from the police station, which means you will be able to go home but..

Digital Crime ‘the new front line’.

The Law Commission has called for a full review of the law dealing with digital crime...

What is a Section 60 notice?

Over 2000 section 60 notices have been issued in London last year..

link

Handling Stolen Goods

What is meant by 'handling stolen goods'...

Domestic Violence Guide

Domestic violence is not just physical violence, it can take many forms, which a person may use to control a partner, if you are suffering domestic violence cal..

Children and the law - Committing a crime

Children and the law - Committing a crime.
A child under 10 will not be charged with a criminal offence but they can face consequences for their actions.
The..

Stop and Search Laws to be changed?

Police Chiefs are calling for a change in the 'stop and search' l..

link

Dogs and the Law.

Dogs and the Law.
Does your dog need a license, should it be chipped are you buying it from a reputable breeder and is it covered under the Dangerous Dogs Act?..

The law on Cannabis.

Anyone found in possession of cannabis could be liable to a fine or a prison sentence, cannabis is classed as a B category drug in the UK and is illegal...

Anti-Social Behaviour

Anti-Social Behaviour.
Anti-social behaviour is defined as activities that are unacceptable and reduce the quality of life for others, this could be by harassm..

Image Description
Is there anything wrong with this page? - any amendments will receive accreditation - email us

Solicitors.com are not a firm of solicitors, and any content on the site should not be used in substitute for obtaining Legal advice from a solicitor regulated in the UK, Solicitors.com recommends that you contact a firm of solicitors to discuss your individual legal requirement. Whilst we strive to bring you accurate up to date content, all content on this site is not legal advice and is not guaranteed to be correct. Use of this site does not create a client relationship.

Information by area of law
Back to top