Boost for Vulnerable as Legal Aid Rules Get Overhaul
The Ministry of Justice has rolled out fresh changes to ramp up legal aid support for society’s most vulnerable. Announced on 21 April 2020, the tweaks aim to make it easier for victims of domestic abuse, debt troubles, discrimination, and special educational needs (SEN) to get quick legal help.
Legal Aid Made Easier and Faster
- New rules relax evidence requirements for domestic abuse victims seeking legal aid.
- Immediate help for debt, discrimination, and SEN cases returns—starting with video calls before face-to-face meetings resume post-social distancing.
- The Legal Aid Agency can now backdate payments for legal help inquests to when the application was first made, not just when approved.
Justice Minister: Support for Those Who Need It Most
“We are improving support for some of the most vulnerable people in the justice system – something that is particularly important during these challenging times,” said Justice Minister Alex Chalk MP. “This is the latest step in delivering our vision of a system that focuses on individuals and enables them to resolve legal problems quickly and easily.”
Extra Measures to Protect Domestic Abuse Victims
Alongside the legal aid shake-up, the government is stepping up help for domestic abuse victims during the coronavirus crisis.
- Remote applications for domestic abuse injunctions have been made simpler.
- Domestic abuse helplines and online support services receive a £2 million funding boost.
These moves fulfill last year’s government pledges to widen access to civil legal aid by reshaping means testing and improving support.
