Calls for Government to Increase Civil Legal Aid Fees as Evidence Mounts
Pressure is mounting on the government to increase civil legal aid fees as evidence continues to pile up in support of the urgent need for change. Various legal organizations have submitted detailed reports to the Ministry of Justice, outlining the challenges faced by practitioners and the detrimental impact of current fee structures.
The Law Society’s 62-page blueprint proposes a 15% increase in fees for early advice work, costing an estimated £11.3m annually. Additionally, they suggest removing the 50% limit on remote working to improve efficiency and accessibility for clients. Other organizations such as the Legal Aid Practitioners Group, Coram Children’s Legal Centre, Public Law Project, and the Bar Council have also submitted evidence highlighting the financial strain and limitations imposed by current fee levels.
The LAPG emphasizes the significant amount of unbillable time spent on administrative tasks and compliance requirements, which add to the financial burden of legal aid providers. Public Law Project’s research reveals the high costs associated with compliance activities and the potential financial risks faced by practitioners for minor errors in billing or reporting.
The Bar Council points out specific examples of inadequate fee levels, such as a case where a junior advocate was only paid for one trial day despite extensive preparation and cross-examination requirements. Coram Children’s Legal Centre highlights the restrictions that prevent children in cases of abuse from receiving legal aid if the abuser is not directly involved in the proceedings.
With the sustainability review expected to conclude by the end of March, stakeholders are hopeful that the government will take action to address the pressing issues raised in the evidence submissions. Final policy decisions are anticipated later this year, with the hope that increased fees and improved support for legal aid providers will ensure access to justice for all.