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Without there having been a fixed cost increase for several years and it being expected by everyone involved that this won't change then the government is letting legal aid slowly die. Should we knock down doors to get then to change. Either its important to them or it isn't. It isn't.

It has to be right at the edge at the moment of sustainability though for practitioners. Public law is I think better.

I went to court last week (1 and half hours travel in the round) having prepped for a directions appointment and was expected to file an order as well (which takes a little while) and this will be paid at £63 plus vat. Good outcome for all involved though after some productive discussions with the parties and the Judge. Sustainable rates of pay?(not far off half a day in the end)

Next day went to court on a private basis for £600 plus vat. Another good outcome. Back at the office at 12-30 having done all letters, an e-filed order etc.

What is there to fight about. Please bring this back? Please pay us a little bit more. On a selfish level I certainly see it as a loss to the public more so than legal firms -it's been virtually replaced in our firm by private money.