Defendants ‘in limbo’ as queue of cases shortens at ‘glacial pace’

Last May, the backlog stood at 60,232, which means the year-on-year reduction has been less than 2,000 cases.

Law Society president I Stephanie Boyce said the ‘glacial pace [was] leaving victims and defendants facing unacceptable delays.

‘Innocent defendants could face years in limbo before their name is cleared, while victims’ suffering is compounded by the long wait for justice. To make a significant dent in the backlog, sustained investment is needed to ensure there are enough judges, prosecutors and defence lawyers to cover the mountain of cases.’

Boyce called on the government to commit to the ‘bare minimum’ 15% increase in criminal defence solicitor legal aid rates recommended by Lord Bellamy’s Criminal Legal Aid Review.