Legal Aid Agency Response to Cybersecurity Threats: Resources for Legal Aid Providers Overview: Discover how the Legal Aid Agency has effectively responded to recent cyber attacks and explore the comprehensive resources available to support legal aid providers in safeguarding their operations. Key Highlights: Cybersecurity Measures: An in-depth analysis of the strategies implemented by the Legal Aid Agency to counteract cyber threats, ensuring the integrity and security of sensitive legal...
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In the wake of a recent cyber attack targeting the Legal Aid Agency (LAA), a dedicated platform has been established to keep legal aid providers informed about the latest developments. This initiative aims to clarify the current status of legal aid applications and billing procedures, ensuring that those impacted can access crucial information regarding the incident.
Legal aid providers who have questions or concerns regarding the contingency measures in place are encouraged to reach out to their LAA Contract Manager for personalized assistance. Additionally, for inquiries not addressed on the dedicated page, the Customer Services Team is available at 0300 200 20 20, operating weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.
Key updates on the cyber incident
For individuals who have received legal aid and suspect they may be affected by the breach, it is essential to seek guidance. They can contact the Customer Services Team at the same number mentioned earlier or email the Chief Executive’s Correspondence and Parliamentary Engagement Team at [email protected].
For any questions that are not related to the incident, including specific case queries, providers should continue to direct their inquiries to [email protected].
Legal measures following the breach
In May, the court issued an order at the request of the Lord Chancellor, which prohibits the release or communication of any data obtained from the LAA’s IT systems. A subsequent injunction was granted on June 4 that further extends this restriction, preventing the perpetrators of the data breach from making this information public, as well as barring third parties aware of the injunction from disclosing it.
Starting from October 1, it is mandatory for all Criminal Legal Aid applications to utilize the Crime Apply system. Any applications submitted via the contingency process (i.e., through email) after this date will not be accepted. Providers encountering difficulties accessing the Legal Aid Services system should contact the Online Support Team at 0300 200 2025 or inform their Contract Manager.
Transition back to normal operations
As of September 22, the submission of all CRM4 and CRM5 applications will also require the use of the Submit a Crime Form. Similar to the previous point, any applications sent via contingency methods (email) after this date will be rejected. It is crucial for providers to comply with this new requirement to ensure timely processing.
The LAA’s enhanced Business Continuity measures for crime applications concluded on September 30. This date signifies a complete transition back to standard operational procedures.
Upcoming changes and adjustments
Initially anticipated for launch in November, the new Submit a Bulk Claim system will not be operational as planned. Instead, legal aid providers will need to submit their October Controlled Work, Crime Lower, and Mediation submission values using the contingency process to ensure payments are processed by early December.
Providers should complete their October submission claims using the Contingency Monthly Contract Submission form, available in an Excel format. Claims should be emailed to [email protected]. To ensure timely payment, submissions must be received by November 17.
Contingency payment options
Legal aid providers who have questions or concerns regarding the contingency measures in place are encouraged to reach out to their LAA Contract Manager for personalized assistance. Additionally, for inquiries not addressed on the dedicated page, the Customer Services Team is available at 0300 200 20 20, operating weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.0
Legal aid providers who have questions or concerns regarding the contingency measures in place are encouraged to reach out to their LAA Contract Manager for personalized assistance. Additionally, for inquiries not addressed on the dedicated page, the Customer Services Team is available at 0300 200 20 20, operating weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.1
Finalizing claims after restoration
Legal aid providers who have questions or concerns regarding the contingency measures in place are encouraged to reach out to their LAA Contract Manager for personalized assistance. Additionally, for inquiries not addressed on the dedicated page, the Customer Services Team is available at 0300 200 20 20, operating weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.2
Legal aid providers who have questions or concerns regarding the contingency measures in place are encouraged to reach out to their LAA Contract Manager for personalized assistance. Additionally, for inquiries not addressed on the dedicated page, the Customer Services Team is available at 0300 200 20 20, operating weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.3
