The Law Society’s press release regarding the grant of permission to appeal the judicial review:
The Court of Appeal has today handed down a crucial judgment permitting the Law Society to challenge an earlier ruling over Government reforms of criminal legal aid.
The Law Society had appealed a High Court decision which could result in the market collapsing. This would mean those accused of a crime would not be able to access legal advice. Legal advice is a fundamental right and not having access to justice has many implications not only for those dedicated legal professionals defending the public but also our society.
Law Society President Andrew Caplen said: “Our appeal has been granted and our legal fight continues”.
“We are still working to put an end to the process. The legal aid crime duty contracts tender process will remain suspended until the result of the appeal, which will be heard on March 10th and 11th.
“We will be keeping our members fully informed of progress.”
Ends
Notes to editors
The Law Society is the independent professional body, established for solicitors in 1825, that works globally to support and represent its members, promoting the highest professional standards and the rule of law.
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