The Law Society of England and Wales has published recommendations from its 21st Century Justice project, which it says offer a powerful vision for change to help narrow the justice gap.
Research by the society shows that only 16% of adults believe the justice system treats everyone equally. Legal aid changes have left 90% of the UK population without local support in some areas of law, and only 23% of county court systems are fully digitised, which the society says contributes to delays.
‘Justice affects all of us whether we are renters or homeowners, workers or small business owners, making a will or getting divorced’, the organisation noted.
“We all have to deal with at least one legal issue in our lifetime, yet millions face an uphill struggle to access justice.
“The justice system is an essential public service just like the NHS and education. The 21stCentury Justice report makes recommendations to the government and the legal sector to build a civil justice system that works for everyone.”
The Law Society sets out three key areas for government-led reform:
Create a free AI-powered tool, like NHS 111, that helps people understand their legal issue and signposts them to the help they need
“This new government-backed tool could save the system around £72 million over 5 years. More than half (53%) of those who had a legal issue people looked online for information to manage their legal issue, up 4% since 2019.”
Fix legal aid before all skilled providers completely disappear
“The government must increase legal aid fees in line with inflation and create an independent body that regularly reviews them. A new model of trust needs to be developed between the government and legal aid providers. The recent cyberattack on the Legal Aid Agency is proof of the need to modernise it and improve access to justice. Legal aid is a lifeline for many, with 89% of adults saying it is important for people who cannot afford legal services.”
Reform access to the ombudsman system
“Currently there are too many ombudsman services, which can create confusion for people trying to access the right service. The government should rationalise the ombudsman landscape and boost their powers to support better access to justice.”
Richard Atkinson, president of the Law Society of England and Wales, commented on the recommendations:
“The justice system is a public service, just like health and education. 21st century justice should work for everyone, regardless of their background or means. Whether it’s fighting eviction, tackling workplace discrimination or dealing with family breakdown, people need legal help they can trust.
“The government and the legal sector must act on the recommendations of the 21st Century Justice report and improve access to legal support. The project unites voices across sectors to put forward proposals such as an AI consumer tool, investment in legal aid and ombudsman reform.
“A justice system that works well is a measure of progress and prosperity that affects all of us. Our report puts forward practical solutions to achieve a vision for redefining a fair justice system that works for the common good.”
