LEGAL CHALLENGE SUCCESS FOR

VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

The Court of Appeal has today upheld a challenge on access to legal aid for victims of domestic violence.

Responding to today's ruling, Chairman of the Bar, Chantal-Aimée Doerries QC said:

"There is no doubt that victims of domestic violence should have access to legal aid, yet stringent tests introduced by the last Government restricted that access, imposing unfair tests on victims of domestic violence."

"The severe cuts introduced by LASPO on legal aid have led to a drastic fall in the number of people accessing legal help in family cases. This should be a matter of real concern to all."

"We are delighted that the Rights of Women, supported by The Law Society, has successfully challenged the legality of these rules."

Ends

Notes to Editors 

  1. Further information is available from the Bar Council Press Office on 020 7222 2525 and [email protected].

  2. The Bar Council represents barristers in England and Wales. It promotes: 

  • The Bar's high quality specialist advocacy and advisory services

  • Fair access to justice for all

  • The highest standards of ethics, equality and diversity across the profession, and

  • The development of business opportunities for barristers at home and abroad.

The General Council of the Bar is the Approved Regulator of the Bar of England and Wales. It discharges its regulatory functions through the independent Bar Standards Board