Legal aid cuts risk unjust fraud convictions, judge warns

clock

Advisers and mortgage brokers accused of fraud could struggle to find a qualified lawyer under government plans to reform legal aid.

Lawyers have warned that in complex cases allocating a defendant eligible for legal aid a non-specialist lawyer could jeopardise their access to a fair trial. Retired judge Sir Anthony Hooper told the Today programme robust lawyers were the main safeguard against innocent people being convicted. He said: “If I was arrested in Norwich on a complex fraud case I would be able under the present system to find solicitors in London or Manchester who specialise in complex fraud cases. Not now. Someone will turn up at the door and say ‘I’m representing you’.” RPC partner Simon Chandler, wh...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Mortgages

Client conundrum: Mortgage overpayments versus investments

Client conundrum: Mortgage overpayments versus investments

1.4 million people will see mortgage deals end this year

Laura Suter
clock 22 February 2023 • 3 min read

Summer economic update: Sunak confirms stamp duty holiday in 'mini-Budget'

Mini Budget

Hannah Godfrey
clock 08 July 2020 • 2 min read

FCA sounds alarm on equity release advice

'Tick-box exercise'

Hannah Godfrey
clock 17 June 2020 • 1 min read