Our nation's Criminal Justice System is under pressure. If the Government doesn't act now, it will break. Swingeing cuts to the justice budget, and added pressures from the recent explosion of digital evidence, have taken their toll.
Launched in 2019 , the FDA's
Manifesto for Justice explains what has gone wrong, and how we can fix it.
Supported by the Bar Council and the Law Society, and endorsed by the Secret Barrister, the Manifesto makes four key demands:
1. A properly resourced CPS
To protect the public with a robust and effective prosecution service.
2. No more cuts to legal aid
To ensure that justice is available to all.
3. Investment in digital disclosure
To maintain public confidence in justice.
4. Competitive pay and fees
To recruit and retain lawyers for a sustainable Criminal Justice System.
Read the Manifesto for Justice.
"A properly functioning Criminal Justice System is fundamental to the rule of law. It is a damning indictment of our times that those in power need reminding." The Secret Barrister
"Due to many years of underinvestment, our Criminal Justice System is crumbling." Christina Blacklaws, President of The Law Society
"Our system of justice, which was once held up as world-class, is now very sick. But it would not take much investment to put it right." Richard Atkins QC, Chair of the Bar Council.