Legal aid row - what is the situation?
Summary
Solicitor Michael O'Connor discusses the escalation of the dispute with the Justice Minister over a new criminal legal aid payment scheme. He explains that many solicitors are withdrawing from court work, including custody and juvenile cases, due to the Minister's refusal to negotiate. O'Connor argues the new scheme makes complex cases uneconomical, threatening fair trials for vulnerable defendants. He outlines two key demands: separate legal aid certificates for multiple charges and fresh assignments after ten court appearances.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Solicitors withdrawing from criminal legal aid
Background on the dispute and Minister's refusal to engage
Scope of the escalation: Custody and juvenile cases
Defense against accusations of abandoning clients
Economic impact on complex vs. simple cases
Constitutional function and Minister's lack of understanding
Acknowledgment of past system abuses and need for reform
First key issue: Separate legal aid for multiple charges
Second key issue: Fresh assignment after 10 court appearances
Rebuttal of fee-ramping claims and causes of delays
Public support, professional value, and small business reality
Listener feedback and show sign-off
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