The statutory instrument (SI) introducing changes to the Advocates’ Graduated Fee Scheme (AGFS) has been laid today. It will come into effect for cases with a representation order dated on or after 28 July 2026.
What will the increases be?
The SI introduces the following changes
- an increase to the fixed fee for additional preparation from £62 to £81
- the extension of the additional preparation fee to guilty plea cases
- a reduction in the number of trial days needed to qualify for a wasted preparation claim, from five to two
Why is this happening now?
These changes form part of a broader package of reforms to the AGFS. The majority of the proposed reforms will be subject to public consultation. However, the changes contained in this instrument are being implemented in advance of the main package, reflecting their particular importance to the criminal Bar, and building on extensive engagement with the sector, including via the Criminal Legal Aid Advisory Board (CLAAB).
Reducing the minimum trial length for wasted preparation from five days to two days broadens eligibility so that more cases can claim the fee. This ensures advocates are appropriately remunerated for their preparation work and encourages early and thorough preparation across a wider range of cases.
Extending the additional preparation fee to cases concluding by guilty plea ensures advocates are remunerated for preparatory work across a wider range of case outcomes. The increase in the fee level is intended to better reflect the volume and nature of work undertaken by advocates.
Where can I find out more?
Details of the new rates can be found in the amending legislation and the updated Crown Court Fee Guidance, linked below. The AGFS calculator will be updated in due course.
How can I claim the additional preparation fee?
The additional preparation fee should be claimed by
- navigating to the ‘miscellaneous fees’ or ‘misc fees’ page in the Claim for Crown Court Defence (CCCD) billing tool
- opening the dropdown fee list
- selecting ‘additional preparation fee’
- completing the claim submission
The update to CCCD to allow the increased additional preparation fee to be claimed, including in guilty plea cases, may not be available from 28 July 2026. If this is the case, we will let you know how to submit claims in the meantime.
Further information
The Criminal Legal Aid (Remuneration) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2026
Crown Court Fee Guidance
