Cases at Newcastle Crown Court were today delayed as barristers went on strike over pay.
Several sentencing hearings and at least one trial due to go ahead were called off because of the action, the Chronicle understands. Members of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) have staged walkouts at courts across England and Wales today in a dispute over legal aid fees.
The barristers will also refuse to accept new cases and to carry out 'return work' - stepping in and picking up court hearings and other work for colleagues whose cases are overrunning.
