Unlike Granny Ina’s dumpling recipe, most things in life can always be improved.
That’s why the Law Society of Scotland has called for a review of Legal Aid. In its 2018 report Rethinking Legal Aid, it advocates tweaking the current system in order to make it simpler, more sustainable and a little bit fitter for purpose. Sounds like a fine plan!
But in case you’re not already familiar with the system, let’s get the low-down.
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What is it?
In a nutshell, Legal Aid is the help available, if you can’t afford to pay your own legal fees. Policy is decided by the Scottish Government and the scheme is managed by the ominous sounding SLAB (Scottish Legal Aid Board Scotland).
It’s aimed at helping some of the more vulnerable members of society, who would might otherwise be unable to access legal assistance or representation.
Not every legal eagle offers their services – only those registered with SLAB. So, if you’re a current or prospective solicitor, Legal Aid work is at the discretion of you or your company.
What’s covered?
Legal Aid can be used for advice and assistance, civil cases, criminal cases and Children’s Hearings.
The best lawyers love a challenge and will always be on hand to help their clients navigate the complexities of their individual case. From debts to divorces to criminal charges and everything in between, Legal Aid solicitors can help.
Who can benefit?
Legal Aid is open to everyone in Scotland, so long as the eligibility criteria are met. Usually, this means proving you can’t afford the costs incurred during legal proceedings.
Providing a full picture of your finances is essential: everything from bank statements to savings and pensions to benefits.
The service isn’t entirely free – users may have to pay a proportion of costs. Nonetheless, funds are allocated on a case-by-case basis.
Why does it need reviewed?
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Not always. To ensure the scheme remains a sustainable, viable resource for both clients and solicitors, adjustments have been suggested.
These include ensuring solicitors are paid fairly for work and are adequately shielded from harassment.
SLAB provides a robust framework of policy, delivery and development for all Legal Aid practitioners, too, to ensure solicitors are prepared and protected.
Regardless of whether you want to work in Legal Aid, from solicitor to public defender to legal secretary finding a rewarding new career is easier with Legal vacancies from s1jobs.