Law Society report sets out recommendations to save justice system from "brink of collapse"
updated on 19 June 2019
The creation of a legal aid task force and the uprating of the legal aid means test are some of the proposals set out in a report by the Law Society to combat the “perilous state” of the criminal justice system in England and Wales.
The report shows that severe cuts to the system have led to a range of failures. Key concerns are the injustice faced by those on low incomes who don’t meet the severe legal aid means test, closures to local courts and the “released under investigation” term that leaves suspects and victims in limbo for months waiting to know if the police are going to pursue the case.
The Law Society says that the situation will likely worsen over time as low criminal aid fees have caused a decrease in criminal duty solicitors.
Law Society president Christina Blacklaws said, “Since 2011/2012, the Ministry of Justice has lost a quarter of its budget. This has led to significant cuts to our courts, tribunals, legal advice and representation.”
With those on lower and middle incomes bearing the greatest burden, Blacklaws commented that “It’s time to fix our ailing criminal justice system. Before it’s too late.”
The full Justice on Trial 2019 report is available to read here: www.lawsociety.org.uk/support-services/research-trends/justice-on-trial-2019/
