Barristers to return to Crown Court cases after fee dispute resolution

Criminal barristers in Northern Ireland are returning to cover legally aided Crown Court cases following an agreement on fees, ending a strike that began in January 2026.

By Andrew McBride1 min read

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Barristers in Northern Ireland have agreed to return to covering legally aided Crown Court cases after a dispute over fees. The strike, which began on 5 January 2026, had prevented all such cases from proceeding.

The Criminal Bar Association reported that 65% of its members voted to resume full service. The Department of Justice described the outcome as a positive development and expected a full return to operations.

The justice minister accepted all recommendations from the accelerated review of criminal legal aid. An 8.66% increase to all criminal legal aid fees will be implemented. The Lady Chief Justice confirmed recovery plans to prioritise re-listed trials.