WORK went ahead at Dorchester Crown Court despite a national walkout by barristers.

It is the second strike held by members of the Criminal Bar Association following government cuts to legal aid.

The list at Dorchester Crown Court during yesterday’s strike remained unaffected although some defendants were unrepresented.

Judge Roger Jarvis gave defendants the option of adjourning their hearings or speaking in their own mitigation.

Demonstrations and rallies were held in London, Manchester, Birmingham and other cities as part of the protest.

The dispute centres on justice secretary Chris Grayling’s proposals to make cuts of £215million to legal aid.

Legal aid fees are expected to decrease by six per cent for barristers and 17.5 per cent for solicitors.