LAA, 'Civil/crime news: changes to privacy notices on legal aid forms' (10/12/21)
Legal Aid form grace period The old versions of Forms CW 1&2 MH, CIVAPP1 and CIVAPP6 (among others) can be used until 11/3/22. After that, the 24/11/21 versions, with the updated privacy notices, must be used.
New version of CW 1&2 MH
Text of Gov.uk web page
We have recently updated our legal aid application forms after revisions to the privacy notices.
Which forms are affected?
Changes have been made to all privacy notices on all legal aid forms across both criminal and civil legal aid.
Why do we have privacy notices?
Privacy notices set out certain standards which clients can expect from the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) regarding their personal data.
Among the areas covered are:
- our requests for personal data and the way it is managed
- how to obtain a copy of the personal data we hold
- what to do if your client thinks standards are not being met
How has the privacy notice been changed?
Amendments to the privacy notices have been made to reflect the way LAA systems and processes work when handling and storing data.
The changes include references to:
- need to sometimes transfer personal information overseas
- information transfers which may take place to the European Economic Area (EEA) and other countries, including the USA
Privacy notices includes text on safeguarding measures and compliance with data protection laws.
Will old forms still be accepted?
Previous versions of the application forms will continue to be accepted until 11 March 2022, so providers have time to adjust.
Show all clients updated privacy notices
Your clients need to be aware of the updated privacy notices. This is especially important if you are submitting the older version of the form.
It means directing your clients to the new privacy notices when you are collecting personal information.
These privacy notices are on the new forms and you can use the links at the end of this article to help you.
CCMS privacy notices
We are working on integrating privacy notices into the Client and Cost Management System (CCMS) which will be updated in due course.
Further information
Updated forms: