New Crime Contract has now opened

As many of you will have seen the tender process for new Crime Contract has now opened. This new contract is loosely based on the 2017 contract but there are significant differences, not least of which is the fact the contract is a much longer 10 year commitment compared with recent contracts, and the fact you can tender for a contract at any time

There is much to discuss about the contract, and the future of legal aid.

In September 2022 the Law Society said it was considering suggesting that solicitors do not undertake criminal defence work: “There appears to be little future in this practice area unless the government gives solicitors parity with barristers and grants the bare minimum 15% rate increase recommended by its own independent review”

It is therefore disappointing that 2 years later we are being asked to tender for new long term contracts when the long needed extra investment has not been forthcoming. It is perhaps not surprising that this week a national supplier of Criminal Legal Aid has announced it is leaving the industry. Many other firms will want to know what others are doing, and what they should do, with this new tender.

There is much to discuss, and fortunately there is a great opportunity do so at our Conference in Liverpool on 4th October this year, when there will be not only a Q&A panel on this topic but a chance to speak to fellow professionals about how to move forward.

Tickets are selling fast and are limited but there is still time to secure your place for what may prove one of the most important conferences for many years.

Tickets on sale here

Daniel Bonich, Chair

Katy Hanson, Vice Chair