Ministers are determined to make sure the criminal
justice system is fully equipped to deal with any
increase in the number of cases, now and in the future.
The far-reaching review will look at the criminal legal
aid market in its entirety, specifically it seeks to
ensure that it:
- continues to provide high-quality legal advice and
representation
- is provided through a diverse set of practitioners
- is appropriately funded
- is responsive to defendant needs both now and in the
future
- contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of
the Criminal Justice System
- is transparent
- is resilient
- is delivered in a way that provides value for money
to the taxpayer.
This is the latest step in the Criminal Legal Aid Review,
which has already led to up to £51mper year
in new payments for the sector that was announced in the
summer. It forms part of wider work to ensure criminal
defence remains an enduringly attractive career for
practitioners.
The Lord Chancellor, QC
MP, said:
Criminal defence lawyers play a crucial role in
upholding the law, representing clients and protecting
their right to a fair trial.
This independent review will be wide-ranging and
ambitious, ensuring the criminal legal aid market
remains effective and sustainable, while reflecting the
diverse society it serves.
I am grateful to the sector for its continued
cooperation and look forward to this important work
commencing in earnest in the new year.
Chair of the Review, Sir Christopher Bellamy, said:
The criminal legal aid sector is a vital pillar of the
justice system.
I look forward to engaging with all stakeholders on
this review, which aims to give the criminal legal aid
sector long-term sustainability.
The review will begin in January and report back later in
the year. It will include input from a wide range of
criminal defence practitioners who have been providing
valuable data and insight for the Criminal Legal Aid
Review.
