Time to deliver

What a depressing round-up of views on the proposed salaries defender pilot project (see [2000] Gazette, 28 September, 1).

Yet again the solicitors' profession has lined itself up against change, instead of looking at this experiment in delivering criminal defence services as a challenge and an opportunity.

There is no reason why private practice should have a monopoly on criminal defence work, and indeed private practice has not always shown itself to be up for the job.

Over the years, the quality of criminal lawyers has been criticised in reports and in a number of high-profile cases.

In some areas of law, such as youth justice, the profession has shown itself unwilling to develop the necessary expertise.

A salaried defence service could fill many access gaps, such as Court of Appeal and Criminal Cases Review Commission cases, where people currently have difficulty getting the expertise they need.

It could also provide opportunities for solicitors who want to practise the law, but not run a practice.

The Legal Action Group has some strong criticisms of the proposed pilot.

Its management structure is too closely linked into the Legal Services Commission and it should have greater safeguards to ensure independence and protect against future cuts.

But the attacks on this pilot have all the hallmarks of unenlightened self-interest.

It is time for the profession to embrace change and look at new ways of delivering services that might help clients.

Karen Mackay, director, Legal Action Group