The deadline to opt out of Glasgow Sheriff Court Duty plan was 5pm on 18th October 2021. There were no proposals for non-COP26 weekend work. SLAB have now published the final version of the payment scheme, via their website, on 22nd October 2021. The link is here – https://www.slab.org.uk/news/update-on-the-legal-aid-fees-for-cop26-cases-non-cop26-cases-at-weekend-courts/
The document is here – 22.10.21 – SLAB – COP26 Payments Final version
The Glasgow Bar Association acknowledges that the payments for COP26 cases are being met by the UK Government budget. We have declined to participate in the Duty plan. It cannot be right that one accused is more highly valued than another. This highlights our concerns about access to justice. We will continue to defend legal aid for all in need.
The Duty plan ends in Glasgow on Tuesday, 26th October 2021.