A Budget That Leaves the Justice System Behind

Wednesday’s Budget offered little comfort – and even less clarity – for those of us working within the criminal justice system. Despite the well-documented crisis facing our courts, prisons, and frontline legal services, there was no mention whatsoever of how the Government intends to fund or stabilise a system that is already stretched to breaking point. With prison capacity at crisis levels, chronic delays in the courts, and practitioners leaving the profession faster than they can be replaced, this omission is both alarming and deeply disappointing.

Equally concerning is what the silence signals for duty solicitors. The long-promised and repeatedly referenced “fee increase” appears once again to have been pushed into the realm of ongoing “consultation” – a familiar phrase that has now become synonymous with indefinite delay. Our members are working unsustainable hours for fees that have not kept pace with inflation or the demands of modern practice. Further postponement is simply not acceptable.

The CLSA will continue to press the Government for meaningful investment and immediate action. A functioning justice system is not optional, it is fundamental to public safety, trust, and fairness. Yesterday’s Budget failed to recognise that.

For the headline information from Rachel Reeve’s Autumn Budget: See here