The first set of changes resulting from the November 2014 review of criminal fixed fees takes effect on Monday 4 July 2016.

In February this year the Legal Services Commissioner announced the revised fee schedules which will be phased in over the next two years.

The new criminal fixed fees being introduced on 4 July are for schedules A-C and D-F, Police and Crown prosecution proceedings respectively.

All new grants of legal aid received by Legal Aid Services on or after 4 July 2016 will attract the new fee schedules. Existing grants under the 1 July 2013 fee schedules can move to the 4 July 2016 schedules if, and when, an amendment to grant is approved for any activity.

A short presentation with practical advice on working with the first set of changes is available on Youtube.

New PDF forms along with an updated installer package are can be downloaded from the Ministry of Justice website.