I do not agree with John Ford's claim that legal aid costs appeals are being unfairly undertaken (see [2008] Gazette, 5 June, 12).


I would like to reassure Mr Ford that the Legal Services Commission's (LSC) South Tyneside (formerly Newcastle) office deals with each request for an enhancement on civil claims on an individual basis, and follows the relevant rules and guidance. The LSC follows the same rules and guidance as the Supreme Court Costs Office to ensure consistency when considering similar requests.



Contrary to Mr Ford's assumption, independent costs assessors are not required to travel to our office to see the solicitor's files when an appeal against an LSC decision has been lodged. Assessors are sent the information that is relevant to the appeal. If an assessor requests the full file, it will be sent to them. Photocopying large files and sending them through the post as a matter of course will entail significant time and expense - and is not the best use of taxpayers' money.



It is disappointing that Mr Ford is not happy with the result of the appeals he has brought. However, our finance appeal procedures are set nationally to ensure all our providers receive consistent decision-making whichever LSC office they deal with.



Joanne Bainbridge, business delivery centre manager, LSC South Tyneside, Jarrow