Overhaul of legal aid system
The Law Society's response to news the ministry of justice has proposed landmark changes to the legal aid system continues to be reported. The government has committed to increase criminal defence rates and to make welcome changes to the means test, which should improve access to legal aid.
"After decades of decline, it's a welcome relief to see the government commit to increase legal aid rates by the 15% that Sir Christopher Bellamy recommended – including for magistrates' court and police station work," said Law Society president I. Stephanie Boyce.
"The Law Society and many others have been calling for investment for many years, and finally our concerns are being heard. This investment represents a welcome first step towards repairing our criminal justice system and ensuring defence solicitors are available when any of us may need them."
Our response to these proposals was picked up by the Gazette, City AM, Business Mayor, MSN and 30+ further local news outlets.
Read our press release on changes to criminal legal aid and, separately, on legal aid eligibility.
Economic Crime Act gets Royal Assent
After a whistle-stop passage through parliament the Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) received Royal Assent yesterday, as reported by the Gazette. We welcomed this but pointed out where the Act would have benefitted from strengthening.
Stephanie Boyce said: "We understand the act needed to be brought in quickly, given the recent events in Ukraine. During the act's passage through parliament we highlighted ways to strengthen the legislation and address potential gaps with existing regimes. Further improvements should be possible via implementation of the legislation and related workstreams."
Read our press release
Also worth a read: