Birmingham | January 25, 2026 Criminal barristers across England and Wales have begun coordinated strike action, refusing to take on new legal aid cases in protest over what they describe as chronically low pay and underfunding of the justice system.
The action, which began this week, is expected to worsen existing court backlogs and delay criminal trials, adding pressure to an already strained legal system. Barristers say years of inadequate funding have made legal aid work financially unsustainable, particularly for junior lawyers.
Under the action, barristers are declining new cases funded by legal aid while continuing to work on existing trials to avoid further delays for defendants already in the system. Organisers say the strike is a last resort after repeated attempts to secure meaningful reform.
Legal professionals warn that without immediate changes, the criminal justice system risks losing an entire generation of advocates. Many young barristers, they say, are leaving publicly funded criminal work for more lucrative areas of law or leaving the profession altogether.
The Ministry of Justice said it recognises the importance of a strong criminal bar but urged a return to negotiations. Officials pointed to previous fee increases, arguing that progress has been made, though barristers say those measures fall far short of what is needed.
Court officials are preparing for disruption, with judges likely to prioritise the most urgent cases, including those involving custody and serious offences. Victims’ groups have expressed concern that delays could prolong trauma for those awaiting justice.
The strike has also renewed debate over access to justice, with critics arguing that underfunding legal aid disproportionately affects vulnerable defendants. Without experienced representation, they warn, the risk of miscarriages of justice increases.
Senior judges have previously warned that court delays undermine public confidence in the legal system. Some trials are already being scheduled years in advance due to staffing shortages and pandemic-era backlogs.
Barristers say their demands are not solely about pay but about preserving the integrity of the justice system. They argue that fair compensation is essential to attract skilled advocates capable of handling complex criminal cases.
Public opinion appears divided. While many express sympathy for legal professionals, others question whether strike action is appropriate in a sector so closely tied to fundamental rights.
Talks between representatives and the government are expected to continue, but no immediate resolution is in sight. For now, the strike underscores deep structural issues within the criminal justice system—issues that many say have been ignored for too long.
