1 April 1998

People receiving criminal legal aid will be assured of a quality service from their solicitor and taxpayers will receive value for money from the criminal legal aid system. That is the aim of the Code of Practice for solicitors carrying out criminal legal assistance in Scotland which has been approved by the Secretary of State and is published today by the Scottish Legal Aid Board.

From 1 October, all solicitors undertaking criminal legal assistance work must be included on the Criminal Legal Assistance Register maintained by the Board, and to do this they must show that they comply with the Code. The Code sets out standards required of solicitors in three main areas of work: standards of professional conduct, quality of service and systems of management and administration.

In its Corporate Plan 1998 - 2001, also published today, the Scottish Legal Aid Board highlights the Code of Practice and the creation of the Public Defence Solicitors’ Office as key priorities during the coming year. Alistair Watson, Director of the PDSO takes up post on 6 April and the pilot scheme will open for business in Edinburgh on 1 October.

Commenting on the publication of the Code of Practice, Scottish Legal Aid Board Chief Executive, Richard Scott, said: "The Code of Practice means that, for the first time, quality standards have been established for solicitors providing criminal legal assistance. This should reassure both the client and the taxpayer.

"The Board now also has the powers to make sure that solicitors continue to meet the Code standards once they are registered. This is important in ensuring that anyone receiving criminal legal assistance now or in the future can be assured of a consistent level of service."

The Board will be accepting applications from today and has recruited a team of four Compliance Auditors initially to assist solicitors with their applications for registration and, after 1 October, to monitor solicitors’ continued compliance with the Code.

Notes to editors

Chief Executive Richard Scott would be available for interview about the Code of Practice and other current legal aid issues. To arrange an interview or further information contact: Charlotte Townsend, Communications Office, on 0131 226 7061.

A copy of the Code will be sent to you by post, for information. If you require a copy more urgently please telephone the number above.