Local solicitors withdraw some services over changes to criminal legal aid scheme

Local criminal law solicitors today (Wednesday) begun a withdrawal of criminal legal aid work in Athlone court – an action expected to last for three days - in a dispute over proposed legal aid reforms involving solicitor fees.

Solicitors across Ireland are staging a three-day nationwide withdrawal of services from June 17 to June 19. The action is in protest against proposed Department of Justice reforms that will replace the current per-appearance fee with a flat fee of €455 per client.

And at the sitting of Athlone District Court this morning, Athlone-based solicitor Mark Cooney, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, said local solicitors were taking action in solidarity with colleagues nationwide.

He said the court and any affected clients listed for today's court session had been forewarned about the move.

Mr Cooney said the action followed concern among the country's legal fraternity over planned changes to criminal legal aid remuneration.

Judge Vincent Deane queried as to whether the action was endorsed by the Law Society of Ireland, and Mr Cooney said that while it was not involved in the decision, the Law Society is in 'discussions' with the department over the proposed changes.

“Solicitors nationwide believe there has been a lack of meaningful action, on behalf of the department, in the matter,” Mr Cooney said.

Cases involving defendants in custody were not affected, with over 50 cases listed adjourned to later dates.

Practitioners undertaking criminal legal aid work will also no longer attend Garda station interviews, evening court sittings or weekend courts until further notice.