Legal Aid in Northern Ireland

The legal profession in Northern Ireland has withdrawn from dealing with new criminal law matters as Barristers protest at the reduced level of their fees.

 

The Northern Ireland Criminal Bar Association said it was taking this stance "with deep regret".

 

In response the David Ford, Stormont Justice Minister, has said that the recently introduced rules regarding legal aid are both fair and essential.

 

Northern Irelands largest Criminal Law firm received more than £2 million from the state in 2014. 

 

In a recent statement the Criminal Bar Association said it was, "committed to providing the highest standard of representation to those members of society who face the most serious and complex criminal cases in the Crown Court". It went further by saying the amended rules were both "substantial and unjustified".

 

Gavan Duffy, Chairman, said, "whilst the Criminal Bar Association recognises the financial restriction occasioned by pressure on public spending, these latest proposals represent cuts of almost 50% from levels previously set by the Department of Justice in 2005".

 

"These rules will inevitably dilute the quality of representation available to some of the most vulnerable members of society and to the victims of crime."

 

In a further development the the Law Society & Bar Council decided to join together and take the Justice Mininster to court in order to overturn the rules.

 

Stockport Personal Injury Solicitors