Ireland’s Legal Aid Strike Disrupts Courts | Waterford News

Solicitors across Ireland are on strike, pushing court dates back as a protest over a new flat fee of 520 euros for criminal legal aid—up from 455 euros and a drastic shift from the old per-appearance system. The strike, sparked July 1st, is causing chaos: most bail cases are delayed, with Waterford courts rescheduling 218 cases to September and October—only two with custody defendants proceeding. Even minor matters, like a receipt dispute, were postponed as judges avoided “crossing the picket line.” While the Department of Justice claims the fee reform boosts efficiency and legal access, spending on legal aid has nearly doubled despite falling case volumes. The Law Society warns the fee could collapse criminal legal aid, leaving the most vulnerable without representation. No solicitors have formally resigned, but some are considering withdrawal. Resolution remains urgently needed. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1412b8670673ba8e