Law Society Will Write To Laois Judge Over Comments

Judge Andrew Cody was highly ciritical of solicitors failing to provide legal aid in Portlaoise this week.

The Law Society says it will be writing to the Judge of a Laois court following stinging criticism of solicitors in a recent judgement.

It comes after a man accused of murdering his wife in Portlaoise made over 40 calls to secure legal advice without success earlier this week.

Judge Andrew Cody described the situation as disgraceful.

Solicitors have been involved in a long running dispute with the Department of Justice over the introduction of a flat fee for the provision of legal aid.

The Law Society insists it remains firmly committed to supporting a sustainable and effective Criminal Legal Aid Scheme.

Statement in full:

The Law Society is aware of the comment made and will be writing to the Judge to provide him with further information on the role of the Law Society and individual solicitors.

The Law Society has consistently raised serious concerns with the Department of Justice about the changes that have been made to the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme.

We will continue to seek to engage with the Department of Justice in order to secure a resolution to these issues. The Law Society remains firmly committed to supporting a sustainable and effective Criminal Legal Aid Scheme that serves both the interests of justice and the public.

Read more: 72 Year Old Man Charged With Wife's Murder In Laois

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