News story

Civil/crime news: overnight accommodation rates set to rise

Providers and experts requesting approval for overnight accommodation costs should know that guideline rates are increasing from 1 September 2023.

From:: Legal Aid Agency
Published: 1 September 2023

Guideline rates for overnight accommodation are increasing from 1 September 2023 for both providers and experts.

What will the new rates be?

The rates will increase to £100 per night in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool and Newcastle and £65 per night elsewhere.

This compares to the current guideline rates of £85.25 per night and £55.25 per night, respectively.

Our caseworkers will retain their discretionary authority to agree rates in excess of the guidelines. This applies where providers are able to demonstrate a lack of suitable accommodation at these prices.

All figures are exclusive of VAT.

Why is this happening now?

The rises reflect provider concerns about the difficulty of securing suitable accommodation within the current guideline rates. The issue was also raised by circuit leaders in a meeting with the Lord Chancellor.

Making this change:

gives providers greater flexibility finding suitable accommodation when needed
aligns rates more closely with similar rates used elsewhere, including for witnesses
reduces the administrative burden on providers and LAA staff to justify costs above current guideline rates

Where can I find out more?

Details of the new rates can be found on GOV.UK. Resources include the Crown Court fee guidance, and the escape cases electronic handbook which sit on their own pages.

The criminal bills assessment manual and the civil finance electronic handbook are both on our legal aid guidance page.

The resources are listed below, including the enabling civil and criminal legal aid regulations.