Criminal barristers in Northern Ireland will fully withdraw from all Crown Court cases from 5 January 2026. The action follows a vote by 193 barristers, with 171 supporting the industrial action.
The Criminal Bar Association cited the Department of Justice's failure to provide reasonable renumeration for legally aided cases. An interim increase in legal aid fees was announced in December 2024 but is not expected to be delivered until January 2026.
Justice Minister Naomi Long expressed disappointment, stating the action would cause further delay and increase trauma for victims and witnesses. The Bar Council acknowledged the impact on the justice system and noted no further increases in fees have been agreed.