Legal aid cost claims challenged

The Bar Council, the professional association for barristers in England and Wales, has challenged the Justice Secretary's claims on the costs of legal aid.

During a recent appearance before the House of Commons Justice Committee Chris Graying, the Justice Secretary, claimed that the 'typical payment' to a senior barrister for a high cost case would be 'around £135,000'.

Chair of the Bar Council Maura McGowan has challenged Mr Grayling's figures, claiming the real amount is around £20,000.

You can read the full report in The Law Society Gazette.