Further statement regarding criminal legal aid funding reforms

Barristers at Pump Court Chambers have decided not to accept legally aided instructions that are returned from other barristers or other chambers with effect from 25 May 2018. This action (No Returns) is in addition to refusing new instructions in cases in which the Representation Order is dated 1st April 2018 or later. We are supporting the position of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) that the revised Graduated Fees scheme represents a wholly unacceptable reduction in fees for longer and more complex trials after many years of cuts in legal aid funding. We anticipate that the same action will be taken by other sets of chambers on the Western Circuit and nationally. The CBA and Circuit Leaders are engaged in discussions with the MOJ this week and we hope for an early resolution.