Lexis®Library update: After the five-month initial testing phase, the MoJ will review evidence collected through the evaluation and use this to inform the design of a future larger-scale pilot.
The pilot in Middlesbrough and Manchester expands the scope of legal aid funding to more people who previously would not have been eligible for free legal advice, to help them address issues before they become more complex or costly.
The aim is to ensure people have a better chance of swiftly resolving legal problems, stopping them from spiralling into further difficulties.
The MoJ says, currently, many people do not access legal advice until too late, causing further problems, such as having to appear in court, increased debt, and even homelessness. The pilot will explore if these issues can be avoided by providing legal advice earlier.
The pilot advice will be offered to individuals struggling with housing issues, paying bills or experiencing problems with their benefits, with no means or merits tests required. A legal adviser can explain issues like council tax arrears, and provide further information about housing rights and how to apply for Universal Credit, if required. Participants of the pilot will either receive up to three hours of free legal advice and support or be signposted to existing advice services.
Source: Free legal advice piloted to help people facing financial difficulties
This content was first published by LNB News / Lexis®Library, a LexisNexis® company, on 1 November 2022 and is published with permission. Further information can be found at: www.lexisnexis.co.uk.
