Legal Aid Agency
A replacement digital service for criminal applications using eForms is under development with trials due to start in the summer months.
Why is this happening now?
Our current service contract for eForm applications ends in 2024 so we are developing a new in-house replacement service called Crime Apply.
Features of Crime Apply
The new service will replace CRM14 and CRM15 eForms and offers:
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reduced need for further information requests and rejects
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accessible service, designed in line with the governments Service Standard see below
Timescales
Testing with a small group of providers and caseworkers will begin in summer 2023 on an early version of Crime Apply.
The plan is to gradually sign up more providers as users while the service is being developed. Firms will be contacted to confirm when they can be brought on board.
Providers who would like to sign up to use an early version of the service are welcome to register their interest by emailing:
LAAapplyonboarding@justice.gov.uk
Phased approach
As the new service is being developed in stages, providers will continue using eForms for some application types until the full service is available.
An early version of the service will be released in summer 2023 and used for new applications by defendants with:
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National Insurance number, unless aged under 18
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passported benefit, including Universal Credit
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no partner
The aim is to develop Crime Apply as a complete replacement for CRM14 and CRM15 eForms by early 2024.
Other eForm services
Development work is also taking place on the other eForm services. These include:
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CRM4 applications for prior authorities
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CRM5 extension of upper limit
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CRM7 non-standard magistrates fees
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Civil Payments on Account (POAs) using eForms this does not affect POAs submitted in the Client and Cost Management System (CCMS)
Further details on this work will be shared as development continues. The aim is to have replacement services for all our eForms before September 2024.
Further information
LAAapplyonboarding@justice.gov.uk for enquiries about Crime Apply
Service Standard to view government approach to develo