Joint letter calls for urgent increase in Scottish legal aid fees

The Law Society of Scotland and the Scottish Association of Law Centres have jointly written to a parliamentary committee examining civil legal aid provision in Scotland to emphasise the urgent need for an increase in legal aid fees.

Both legal bodies had previously provided written and verbal evidence to the Scottish Parliament’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee.

The joint letter has now been sent to stress that, while the evidence provided to the committee shows that reform of the legal aid system is required, an urgent fee uplift must be prioritised.

The letter, signed by Law Society President Pat Thom and Scottish Association of Law Centres Secretary Aaliya Seyal, states: “Any changes made to system need to be led with greater support for legal aid solicitors. Specifically, an across-the-board increase in legal aid fees.

“Not providing this support will only add greater pressure to an already strained system. We are keen to emphasise that this requirement for an uplift in fees is not about drawing comparisons with private practice, this is about access to justice – a fundamental human right.

“There is an opportunity here for the Committee to recognise the professionalism of those who cater for people in Scotland who need, but cannot afford, legal representation; and signal the trust and support legal aid solicitors require so they may continue the integral role that they play in ensuring Scotland’s legal system works.”

The Law Society’s public campaign in support of legal aid continues. Sign the campaign pledge today to show your support for legal aid and access to justice in Scotland.

Read the letter in full