The announcement, which is part of the Government’s Plan for Change, states the proposals will increase spend on housing work by 24% and on immigration work by 30%.
Set to be published later today, the consultation will ask for evidence on how to improve remote advice provision and the assurance of in-person advice.
Current Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood historically announced a minimum of 10% increase in civil legal aid fees back in November – which would focus on lawyers supporting housing cases, victims of modern slavery and asylum claims.
Justice Minister, Sarah Sackman KC, stressed the importance of this initial move, stating:
“Today’s launch marks a crucial step towards rebuilding the legal aid sector which has been left neglected for years.
“A key part of our Plan for Change is ensuring the legal aid sector is on a sustainable footing. These proposals will make a real difference to helping support quicker access to justice for those who need it most.”
Overall, the changes point toward the Government’s intention to strengthen support for the legal aid sector, by making quicker decisions and delivering justice to those in need.
The ministry is yet to decide on fees for other areas of the civil legal aid sector, including mental health, education, community care and discrimination.
A decision here is expected this spring.
The Bar Council has issued a call for greater consistency in remote hearings and increased investment in court technology based on findings from a new report on the administration and delivery of remote justice.
