Barristers will be asked whether they accept a new deal proposed by Government aimed at ending strike action which has crippled the courts. Lawyers will be balloted over new proposals for pay put forward following negotiations with the Justice Secretary Brandon Lewis.
The Ministry of Justice said the proposal represents 'further investment of £54 million in the criminal bar and solicitors'. But there are now concerns that the new deal could lead to a walkout by solicitors, after the Law Society of England and Wales described it as 'short sighted'.
The body, which represents solicitors, said it was considering advising members not to undertake criminal defence work. Law Society president Stephanie Boyce said: "If solicitors do not get parity on the bare minimum 15 per cent recommended by Lord Bellamy, the Ministry of Justice will have made it clear that there is no future in criminal defence practice and we will advise our members not to undertake this work.
READ MORE : Woman repeatedly hit boyfriend's housemate with pan in joint attack like a scene from ‘a horror movie’
"No responsible organisation could truthfully advise otherwise. We are meeting ministers urgently today."
Barristers have been taking part in industrial action since June in protest over Legal Aid fees, the system used to pay them for representing people accused of crimes who can't afford to pay their legal fees.
The Criminal Bar Association, which represents barristers, has demanded a 25 per cent increase to fees while the Government had previously offered 15 per cent. The CBA says such an increase is necessary to protect the future of the profession by attracting young lawyers, and prevent experienced barristers from leaving for better paid work elsewhere.
The industrial action has led to many cases being adjourned for months because defendants have been left unrepresented. In a statement, the Justice Secretary said: "I greatly value the criminal bar and solicitors and the work they do every day in our crown and magistrates’ courts. They are crucial to reducing the backlog.
"My priority in these discussions has been to ensure that victims aren’t forced to wait longer to see justice done. These are generous proposals, and I would strongly urge all members of the Criminal Bar Association to consider carefully, end their strike and work with me to deliver better outcomes for victims of crime."
CBA chairman Kirsty Brimelow KC said: "The offer from Government has resulted from constructive talks between the MoJ and the leadership of the CBA. This offer represents substantial positive movement from Government. As a result the offer will be put to a ballot."
Read more of today's top stories here
READ NEXT:
- Woman 'punched in the head' in VIP section at Ne-Yo concert as she brands event 'worst she's ever been to'
- "I've got nothing": People left in limbo for years after sinking deposits into unbuilt apartments in Salford Quays
- The Greater Manchester park with riverside views and hidden ruins
- Patients at Greater Manchester NHS mental health unit 'filmed being subjected to abuse', BBC's Panorama claims
- The most complained about roads for potholes in Greater Manchester
