LAA Peer Review Independent Expert Panel

Descriptions

The Authority is preparing to launch a tender for the provision of Peer Review Independent Experts to the Legal Aid Agency (LAA). This notice is being published for the purpose of initiating engagement with the market to share the Authority's requirements, gauge market interest and to seek feedback on the Authority's approach.

This is a Preliminary Market Engagement (PMEN) notice. It is not a formal invitation to tender. You will need to respond to the tender notice when published in order to be considered for the forthcoming Contract. The purpose of this notice is to maximise transparency and competition for the upcoming tender notice.

The Legal Aid Agency (LAA) is looking to procure a panel of Independent Experts to advise and oversee the LAA Peer Review Scheme. The Authority intends to enter into three individual contracts. This initiative is not about recruiting additional Peer Reviewers. It is focused on appointing Independent Experts to support and oversee the Peer Review Scheme.

The work expected under each contract is an average of 10 hours per month, however flexibility will be required from contract holders as work many fluctuate during the year, and some periods may be busier than others.

The Peer Review scheme is the LAA's primary method for assessing the quality of legal advice provided by legal aid providers. Under this scheme, experienced legal practitioners review a sample of case files to determine whether the advice given meets professional standards. The scheme plays a critical role in maintaining public confidence in the legal aid system and ensuring value for money.

The Independent Experts are central to the integrity of the Peer Review process. Their responsibilities will include moderating the consistency of ratings, training and supporting Peer Reviewers, and providing guidance on disputes between Peer Reviewers. Their oversight ensures that Peer Review ratings are fair, proportionate, and consistent across the legal aid provider base.

The Panel will be appointed to undertake the following duties:

• Training of new Peer Reviewers and delivery of annual consistency training to existing Peer Reviewers.

• Dealing with Peer Review Validations to ensure quality and consistency within the Peer Review reports and ratings.

• Assist with disputes between Peer Reviewers - the Independent Expert must guide and make suggestions so the Peer Reviewers can reach an appropriate conclusion.

• Validate representations against Peer Review ratings.

• Quality Management of Peer Reviewers and Peer Review system - The Independent Expert is responsible for moderating the consistency and training of Peer Reviewers.

• Maintaining the independence of the scheme - The legal profession respects the Peer Review Process due to its independence from the LAA. Whilst the LAA contract with the Peer Reviewers, the methodology and running of the scheme is independent.

• Collaborating with the LAA on Peer Review in new categories of law - There are two different sets of Peer Review Criteria: Civil and Crime. The categories of law that are Peer Reviewed currently: Crime, Family, Housing, Immigration & Asylum and Mental Health. The LAA may wish to introduce Peer Review in other categories of law in the future.

• Process Development: We may also require the contractor to assist with the development and improvement of the Peer Review Scheme. It is likely that the LAA will need to commission new Peer Reviewers during the contract terms, which will require input from the contractor.

• The Panel must adhere to all applicable UK laws and regulation. For example, but not limited to, FCA, Security and GDPR. On registration for market engagement, the Authority will share a draft Specification with interested bidders or panel members.

The Service Provider must:

• have a law degree or equivalent and have at least 4 years Post

Qualification professional work experience in the legal sector.

• have a relevant qualification in quality management and/or have at a minimum of 4 years practical experience of applying this in a

professional setting.

Maintaining the integrity of the Peer Review Process is key for the Panel and at the time of award, Panel Members must be independent of the LAA. The LAA welcomes interest from all suitable and prospective Panel members.

The Authority intends to conduct an Open competition under the light-touch regime under the Procurement Act 2023, although this might be subject to change.