Given the complexity of family law and practice, the provision of legal representation is crucial. The Law Society has applied for a judicial review of the tender process used by the Legal Services Commission for provision of legally aided family law services. The Law Society's skeleton argument may be read here.
The Law Society point out that the outcome of the tender process is a reduction in law firms permitted to provide family legal aid services from around 2400 to 1345. A large number of experienced family lawyers in England and Wales will be precluded from providing essential family legal aid services from 14 November 2010 onwards. This outcome will have serious adverse consequences for effective access to justice for family law clients .... , including some of the most vulnerable groups in society, such as women and young girls who are victims of domestic violence and forced marriage, and children caught up in domestic abuse and care proceedings."
This situation is a disgrace to justice in England and Wales and it is to be hoped that the Law Society are successful in this review and that a more reasonable outcome eventually results. Families simply cannot be expected to represent themselves in serious matters such as care proceedings which could result in children being removed from the family.
See also Solicitors Journal - the judicial review is to be heard by Moses LJ and Beatson J.
Review of family law - The government are conducting a review of family law - see here. Person wishing to contribute to the consultation must do so by 30th September.
Speech by Lord Justice Wall - President of the Family Division - "Is the family justice system in need of review?"
"Families simply cannot be expected to represent themselves in serious matters such as care proceedings which could result in children being removed from the family."
ReplyDeleteHear hear. I have no first-hand experience, but it appears from the outside to be a shambles.
I am not sure why there is even a tendering process - why cannot people choose their own lawyer from those willing to work at the legal aid rate?
A family is very important in a society. Therefore, They must be provided well with proper family justice system. The justice system should really take care of them especially women and children. The families may seek legal counseling from an estate lawyer. Ottawa estate lawyers have been providing counseling for the families in their town.
ReplyDeleteHJT Training
ReplyDelete1 Liverpool Street
London EC2M 7QD
0207 956 2506
We provide courses on Immigration and Asylum law also management and diversity.
All our courses are accredited.
please visit www.hjt-training.co.uk for more information.
On the 9th December we will have a Judicial Review conference. If you book by the 2nd December you will be able to benefit from the early booking price.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further assistance
Kind regards
Sabrina
Good strong opinions on a controversial issue
ReplyDeleteLegal aid is such a fundamental resource in getting fair representation but yet there still serious concern over access to family law solicitors
ReplyDelete