The statutory instrument (SI) introducing changes to the
Advocates' Graduated Fee Scheme (AGFS) has been laid today. It
will come into effect for cases with a representation order dated
on or after 28 July 2026.
What will the increases be?
The SI introduces the following changes:
- an increase to the fixed fee for additional preparation from
£62 to £81
- the extension of the additional preparation fee to guilty
plea cases
- a reduction in the number of trial days needed to qualify for
a wasted preparation claim, from five to two
Why is this happening now?
These changes form part of a broader package of reforms to the
AGFS. The majority of the proposed reforms will be subject to
public consultation. However, the changes contained in this
instrument are being implemented in advance of the main package,
reflecting their particular importance to the criminal Bar, and
building on extensive engagement with the sector, including via
the Criminal Legal Aid Advisory Board (CLAAB).
Reducing the minimum trial length for wasted preparation from
five days to two days broadens eligibility so that more cases can
claim the fee. This ensures advocates are appropriately
remunerated for their preparation work and encourages early and
thorough preparation across a wider range of cases.
Extending the additional preparation fee to cases concluding by
guilty plea ensures advocates are remunerated for preparatory
work across a wider range of case outcomes. The increase in the
fee level is intended to better reflect the volume and nature of
work undertaken by advocates.
Where can I find out more?
Details of the new rates can be found in the amending legislation
and the updated Crown Court Fee Guidance, linked below. The AGFS
calculator will be updated in due course.
How can I claim the additional preparation fee?
The additional preparation fee should be claimed by:
- navigating to the miscellaneous fees' or misc fees' page in
the Claim for Crown Court Defence (CCCD) billing tool
- opening the dropdown fee list
- selecting additional preparation fee'
- completing the claim submission
The update to CCCD to allow the increased additional preparation
fee to be claimed, including in guilty plea cases, may not be
available from 28 July 2026. If this is the case, we will let you
know how to submit claims in the meantime.
Further information
The Criminal
Legal Aid (Remuneration) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2026
Crown Court
Fee Guidance
