The Department of Justice has released a consultation paper outlining proposed reforms to the legal aid system in Northern Ireland. The proposals aim to modernise the system while ensuring continued access to justice for those who need it most.
Key Proposals
The consultation paper sets out several significant changes:
- Means Testing — Revised financial eligibility thresholds to reflect the current cost of living in Northern Ireland.
- Digital Applications — Introduction of an online portal for legal aid applications, reducing processing times and administrative burden.
- Fee Structures — Proposed updates to the fee schedules for solicitors and barristers undertaking legally aided work.
- Scope of Coverage — Expansion of legal aid to cover certain housing and debt matters that are currently excluded.
Reaction from the Legal Profession
The Law Society of Northern Ireland has welcomed the consultation but has expressed concerns about the proposed fee structures, warning that inadequate remuneration could lead to a reduction in the number of solicitors willing to undertake legally aided work.
The consultation period runs until April 2026, and responses can be submitted through the Department of Justice website.