15 February 2023
Means-testing for legal aid has been removed for foster parents and approved prospective adoptive parents bringing special educational needs and disability (SEND) appeals.
The change, which applies to the first-tier SEND tribunal from 10 February, was introduced by the Civil Legal Aid (Financial Resources and Payment for Services) (Amendment) Regulations 2023.
A Law Society spokesperson said the legislative change has been made in response to a challenge brought by the Public Law Project and supported by the Law Society.
While welcoming it, they said: ‘Increasing legal aid can only be effective if there are legal aid lawyers available to advise and represent those in need.’
