From Tuesday, 6 August 2024, the “Apply for Criminal Legal Aid” service has become the mandatory platform for submitting new applications for criminal legal aid.
This service is designed to handle a wide range of applications, including those for clients who are self-employed, have self-employed partners, and require non-means tested applications.
Features of the New Service
- Comprehensive Coverage: The new service can now process 99% of all applications, including complex scenarios such as self-employment and business partnerships.
- Ease of Use: Providers can easily submit applications and attach post-submission evidence through the new system.
- Feedback Integration: The service has been developed based on provider feedback to ensure it meets the needs of users effectively.
Transition Period and Deadlines
To ensure a smooth transition, the UK government has set several deadlines:
Service |
Deadline |
|---|---|
| CRM14 and CRM15 eForms | Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024 (new) Friday, Oct. 4, 2024 (pending) |
| CRM4, CRM5, and CRM7 eForms | Friday, Oct. 4, 2024 |
| Access to Historic eForms | Friday, Oct. 25, 2024 |
Handling Pending Applications
For applications started in eForms but not yet submitted, providers have until Friday, 4 October 2024, to complete them. After this date, any pending applications must be recreated in the new “Apply for Criminal Legal Aid” service.
Providers are advised to take screenshots of the date stamp and offence details from the eForms application to attach to the new application.
Updates for Non-Standard Crime Claims
The replacement services for CRM4 and CRM5 eForms are now live and available on the LAA Online Portal. Providers should use these new services for all new applications.
The CRM7 replacement digital service is also being rolled out, with providers being onboarded gradually.
Submitting Post-Submission Evidence
For applications made via eForms that require post-submission evidence (PSE), providers must submit this evidence via email to designated addresses once the eForms service is removed.
It is crucial to keep a note of MAAT/URN references to link the evidence to the original application.
Accessing Historic eForms
Access to historic eForms will be available until Friday, 25 October 2024. After this date, providers can request access to these forms via email or phone, with responses expected within five working days.
In Conclusion
The transition to the “Apply for Criminal Legal Aid” service marks a significant step forward in digitizing and streamlining the legal aid application process in the UK. As providers adapt to this new system, it is essential to stay informed about the deadlines and guidelines to ensure a seamless transition.
This change is expected to improve efficiency and user experience, aligning with the UK government’s commitment to modernizing legal services.
Sources: THX News & Legal Aid Agency.
