Extra copies of representation orders can no longer be requested on demand except in exceptional circumstances.
Why are you doing this now?
Copies of representation orders are not normally needed to make a claim so we cannot justify redirecting resources from more useful work to provide this service.
Will any representation orders be sent?
Yes, providers will continue to receive representation orders for successful criminal legal aid applications. The change we are making only affects follow-up requests for copies.
When making an application, you can also ask for the representation order or refusal notice for failed applications to be sent to a second email address.
You can do by inserting the second address in the ‘firm administrator’ field of the eForm.
What are the ‘exceptional circumstances’?
You can continue to request a copy of a representation order if one has not been automatically generated by our computer system and the representation order can only be produced manually.
This only applies in a very small number of cases. Examples may include work on appeals to the Crown Court or non-means tested applications for breach proceedings in the Crown Court.
When do I need a representation order for claims?
Evidence for representation orders is only needed in limited circumstances. These include:
- AGFS and LGFS claims where a defendant has transferred solicitors
- court has agreed that multiple advocates are required
- Crown Court retains authority to grant representation orders
There is no requirement for either a paper or electronic representation order in any other circumstances. This includes all claims for the magistrates’ court.
Further information
Providers no longer need to keep copies of rep orders – GOV.UK news story June 2016