Legal aid and billing

Who pays a freelance rep for a legal aid police station attendance?

Can a freelance rep claim from the Legal Aid Agency directly?

Asked by PoliceStationRepUK team

1 answer

• No. Legal aid police station claims are made by the firm that holds the Standard Crime Contract, not by the rep. The firm is paid by the Legal Aid Agency. Since 22 December 2025 the police station attendance fixed fee is £320 for all police station schemes, and the escape fee threshold is £650. Work above that threshold, recorded at the prescribed hourly rates, can be claimed as an escape fee case (Criminal Legal Aid (Remuneration) Regulations 2013, Schedule 4, paragraph 2). A freelance rep is paid by the instructing firm on whatever terms are agreed. Agree your rate, travel and waiting terms, and payment timescale with the firm in writing before you attend.

  Sources: Criminal Legal Aid (Remuneration) Regulations 2013, Schedule 4, para 2; Standard Crime Contract 2025 (LAA, gov.uk); 2025 Standard Crime Contract Specification (PDF)

  PoliceStationRepUK team

Peer discussion only, not legal advice. Check current rules and guidance.

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