The Legal Services Board (LSB) has brought in Field Fisher Waterhouse to replace Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) as its adviser to defend the controversial Quality Assurance Scheme for Advocates (QASA) in a judicial review.

HSF was representing the LSB on the case, brought by the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) against the advocacy scheme, after the board approved the introduction of a grading system for advocates in the criminal courts.

HSF's team was led up by partner Andrew Lidbetter, who instructed 11 KBW's Nigel Giffin QC.

However, the LSB railed against high cost estimates for the hearing, provided by HSF, and has instead instructed Field Fisher to take the case foward.

In a submission last month, HSF rejected a Protective Costs Order (PCO), applied for by the CBA, that would have seen its fees capped.

Mr Justice Ouseley subsequently denied the submission, and has approved the PCO, putting in place a mutual cap on costs of £150,000.

The Field Fisher team that has HSF is led by senior partner Matthew Lohn. The firm is instructing Giffin, who continues to act for the LSB. The firm has not yet proposed its cost estimate.

Baker & McKenzie disputes partner Joanna Ludlam and Dinah Rose QC and Tom De La Mare QC of Blackstone are leading the proceedings against the LSB on a pro bono basis.

Earlier this week the High Court granted the CBA permission to pursue the judicial review. The case is due to be heard later this year.