OFSI

Submission process updated for inquest funding

The Legal Aid Agency have updated CCMS to accept means free submissions so you will no longer need to email your applications using form CIV ECF2 (INQ).

Exceptional case funding (ECF) applications for inquest cases can now be applied for through the Client and Cost Management System (CCMS).

What does this mean for providers?

The upgrade to CCMS means that you no longer need to email submission form CIV ECF2 (INQ) to make an application. Instead, the complete process can be carried out by logging on to CCMS.

Why is this happening now?

The rule change allowing ECF applications for inquest cases without means assessments of individuals came into effect on 12th January 2022. At that time, it was not possible for means free submissions to go through CCMS. So, CIV ECF2 (INQ) was made available. But the necessary upgrade work has now taken place.

Will the submission form be withdrawn?

You should stop using CIV ECF2 (INQ) from Monday 28th February. We will continue to process the form until 25th March 2022. This is to avoid any issues for providers who have started an application using CIV ECF2 (INQ).

Certificates of funding after ECF2 (INQ) submission

There will be some applications using ECF2 (INQ) where we have issued a certificate of funding in our corporate information system (CIS). These certificates will remain on CIS throughout the lifetime of that case. Applications for amendment will need to be made using CIV APP8 and payment claims will need to be made using CIVCLAIM1. See below for contact details.

ContactECC@justice.gov.uk – mailbox for enquiries

ContactECC@justice.gov.uk – amendment applications using CIV APP8 to certificates of funding granted under alternative process

ContactCivil@justice.gov.uk – payment claims using CIVCLAIM1 made under certificates of funding granted under alternative process

Civil legal aid: means testing – for amended Lord Chancellor’s guidance on determining financial eligibility for certificated work and updated means assessment guidance

Civil legal aid (financial resources and payment for services) (amendment) regulations 2021 – to view statutory instrument amending regulations from 12 January 2022

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