More trials were put on hold – as the barrister strike entered its fourth week.

Two trials were unable to go ahead at Oxford Crown Court on Monday, with defence barristers saying they were taking part in nationwide industrial action launched last month over Legal Aid rates. 

Yesterday, another barrister was absent as a result of the strike - with the judge asked to deal with the case 'on the papers' in the absence of the defence.

READ MORE: Why are barristers on strike?

This is the first week barristers have staged a five-day walkout in protest about the rates paid cases where the state – through the Legal Aid Agency – helps foot the bill.

Members of the Criminal Bar Association have called on the government to increase rates by 25 per cent. Ministers have offered 15 per cent, the minimum recommended in an independent review of the criminal Legal Aid system last year.

Earlier this week, barristers congregated in Parliament and organised picket lines outside crown courts in Winchester and Manchester.

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This story was written by Tom Seaward. He joined the team in 2021 as Oxfordshire's court and crime reporter.  

To get in touch with him email: Tom.Seaward@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @t_seaward