Kerry solicitors may withdraw services in all criminal cases over the new legal aid scheme which came into effect today.
The new system of paying criminal defence solicitors has led to a withdrawal of services by solicitors across the country, and is having an impact on the courts here in Kerry.
The new legal aid system involves paying solicitors a one-off, flat rate fee per client, rather than being paid per court appearance.
Solicitors have said this is unworkable, and have been withdrawing services in protest at the move; this has so far involved not attending garda stations, and not acting for clients who are on bail.
Solicitors attended the sitting of Tralee District Court this morning, but they told the court for bail cases they are withdrawing services over the ongoing dispute; this means any cases where the client is on bail are being adjourned.
Speaking at Tralee court, President of the Kerry Law Society Pat Mann said the action will continue.
At Tralee Circuit Court, barristers cannot act for any clients on bail as the solicitors are not instructing them due to the withdrawal, but Judge Alec Gabbett has handed down sentences in the absence of legal representation.
Mr Mann says solicitors do not believe this should happen.
