Revised guidance when applying for prior authority

News Story

The update includes:

  • Clarification around the exceptional circumstances test and how the LAA determines whether this test is met.

  • Makes clear that it is not the intention of the LAA that Local Authorities, other than in unusual circumstances, should make up a shortfall in expert fees.

Why is it happening now?

The LAA has been part of a judicial working group looking at improvements to the instruction of expert witnesses in family cases.

Further information

The revised guidance can be found here : Expert witnesses in legal aid cases – GOV.UK