Barristers Strike Action

Why are Barristers Proposing Strike Action and what impact will it have?

With effect from 27th June 2022 barristers in England & Wales will be taking industrial action in order to protest against what they see as the deteriorating state of the criminal justice system.

A form of action, known as “no return” is already in place, but further measures are being taken in order to force government back to the negotiating table.

What the barristers looking for?

Barristers have been offered a remuneration uplift said to amount to 15%, a figure disputed by the bar, but want a total package worth closer to 25%. This, they say, will stem the exodus of talent from the bar and ensure a proper supply of advocates able to prosecute and defend cases, and in due course puruse judicial careers.

What Actions are being taken?

From Monday 27th June, the following action will be taken

1. Continuation of “no returns”, means that barristers will not step in to cover the cases of colleagues. This measure has already caused widespread disruption and delay to many cases.
2. Not accept instructions in new cases. This major escalation will lead to delays in thousands of cases over the next few weeks.
3. Walk out from court for two days, with this escalating further in subsequent weeks. This step will effectively bring most courts to a complete halt.

As a firm, we will closely monitor the situation and ensure all of our clients are kept up to date with what is happening and the impact it might have on their cases.

How We Can Help

If you have any questions or concerns about the upcoming Barristers’ strike action please contact us on 0161 477 1121 or email us.