With effect from today, the scope of criminal legal aid is extended to include proceedings under sections 26, 27 and 29 Crime and Security Act 2010 (domestic violence protection notices and orders) by virtue of an amendment inserting a new Reg 3(2)(t) to the Criminal Defence Service (General) (No 2) Regulations 2001. As a result, Representation Orders will be available in the Magistrates Court subject to the usual requirements of means and merits. The Orders are being introduced in the pilot areas of Greater Manchester, Wiltshire and West Mercia only.