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"What the LS should focus on is pressing for increased pay rates to attract decent defence lawyers for legal aid firms. Without this occuring there will be no prospect of fair trials. Except for those who can pay privately for the best service available...." (Anon 10.58)

Hang on a second. I am not a high earner (PI solicitor - read into that what you will!), have limited savings and no emergency trust fund. I am certainly not be eligible for legal aid. I wouldn't be able afford to pay privately for the "best service available" without taking out a considerable loan (which there would be no way of recouping from the CPS/HMG).

How is it fair or just that the poorest in society can access justice; the richest can buy representation; whilst those in the middle are left to fend for themselves and face oblivion - either financially or in prison?

The whole system needs changing. I don't profess to have the answers, but all I can say is that the current system is not fit for purpose.