The Criminal Bar Association (CBA) said today that it will not extend the withdrawal of services which began at the start of January and was later extended until the end of February.

However, members will continue to refuse to accept instructions in certain new Crown Court cases — namely Category A cases, which include trials for murder and serious sexual offences, as well as retrials and multi-complainant Category D cases.

In a statement, the CBA said: “Engagement has taken place with the Department of Justice in recent weeks. Although positive, the CBA does not consider that this engagement has created the conditions necessary to enable them to advise their members to cease entirely their withdrawal of services.

“However, we can confirm that, from 1st March 2025, the January and February escalation shall cease, and CBA will return to dealing with cases listed before our Crown Court, whilst maintaining their refusal to accept instructions in defined classes of new Crown Court cases (namely, Category A, retrials, and multi-compliant Category D cases).

“The Bar of Northern Ireland has at all times been, and remains, ready, willing, and able to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Department of Justice in order to resolve the access to justice crisis and bring to an end its remaining industrial action.”

A spokesperson for the Department of Justice said: “The minister is acutely disappointed in the continuing damaging action by the Criminal Bar Association (CBA).

“She has consistently stated her concern for those affected by the withdrawal of services and the Department has been working hard with justice system colleagues to mitigate the impact on victims and witnesses.

“The Department and the minister have engaged with the legal profession and have been proactive in progressing reform and in addressing concerns.

“The minister has already announced a significant 16 per cent uplift in fees, as recommended by HHJ Burgess. The uplift will take effect from May and will be backdated to December when the Minister reached the decision to increase fees. Steps are also in train to progress other potential reforms.

“The Law Society and Solicitors Criminal Bar Association have continued to engage and respond positively to the Department’s approach and we have called upon the CBA to similarly take cognisance of the actions taken by the Department and to end their unnecessary and harmful withdrawal of services.

“Both the minister and the Department remain committed to working with all parties to deliver an equitable and sustainable justice system that delivers for all.”