The Law Society has launched a campaign for more investment in civil legal aid in family, community care, inquests, mental health and other areas
It welcomed proposed increases in legal aid for housing and immigration, consulted on in March, but called for more funding across the board. In particular, it urged the reinstatement of early legal advice for separating families, a fair means test for people on low incomes, and a guarantee that both sides in family cases involving allegations of abuse will get legal aid.
According to the Law Society’s Legal Needs Survey in 2023, 55% of adults with a domestic abuse issue received no legal support.
Law Society president Richard Atkinson said: ‘Civil legal aid is a crucial service that protects people and communities and reduces the strain on other public services.’
Issue:
8120
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Categories:
Legal News
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Legal aid focus
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Family
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Community care
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Inquests
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Mental health
