The government is refusing to back down on its plans to overhaul the country’s legal aid system, despite swingeing attacks from MPs and stakeholders.
Too rushed and too risky? In a two-part article, Professor Michael Zander QC reports on why the Carter reforms were savaged by the Constitutional Affairs Committee
Cherie Booth QC will name the winners of this year’s legal aid Oscars on 28 June. The Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year (LALY) awards, which are in their fifth year, recognise excellence among legal aid providers who help protect the rights of some of society’s most marginalised people.
In brief
The country’s first Community Legal Advice Centre (CLAC) which aims to improve access to publicly funded civil legal advice for local residents, has been launched.
The LSC has shown a willingness to listen in key areas affecting legal aid provision, says Richard Miller
Criminal Defence Service Direct (CDS Direct), the Legal Services Commission’s (LSC’s) telephone advice service for suspects held in police stations, is to be expanded.
Overseas legal assistance is to receive a major boost with the advent of a new initiative, the Justice Assistance Network.
David Burrows reports from the legal aid family law barricades
Protests against the government’s civil legal aid changes are being planned by the Access to Justice Alliance. Members from various advice organisations will meet in Parliament on Monday 14 May to discuss their strategy.
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