The new independent Legal Aid Committee is reminding the public that they can help shape the future of access to justice for those without the means to pay for it.

The Committee has embarked on the first fundamental review of the Island’s legal aid system for 14 years and began an open public consultation in September.  Interested bodies and individuals still have until 28th November to submit their opinions and ideas.

Committee Chairman Andrew Swithinbank explained: “The Committee is delighted with the level of responses received so far and would encourage anyone who has not yet done so to make their submissions before the deadline. We want to hear from you if you have experience of or any connection with the current Legal Aid system.” 

The consultation asks for comments regarding the ability of the current legal aid system to provide:

1. Fairness and equity in access to justice;
2. Effective use of limited resources and value for money;
3. Transparency, simplicity and efficiency;
4. Professionalism and continuous quality improvement in practice; and
5. A service shaped around the needs of its customers, clients, and users.     

The Committee is also keen to encourage respondents to be unhindered by the operation of the existing arrangements and to provide ideas and express options for alternative approaches which may deliver the above principles more effectively. These may include mediation or other dispute resolution mechanisms and earlier advice and help which prevents the need to go to court.

Committee Chairman Andrew Swithinbank commented:

“We are hearing from people who are keen to help the Committee in our efforts to promote access to justice in a manner which is fair, equitable, transparent and professional and which uses public resources carefully and effectively.  Respondents are letting us know whether they feel the system is working well, and proposing refinements to improve access to justice, which is great. We are also particularly keen to hear from you if you have ideas and suggestions for, new alternative solutions”

Submissions should be sent to legalaidconsultation@gov.im or Kevan Cubbon, Legal Aid Committee, c/o General Registry, Deemsters Walk, Bucks Road, Douglas, IM1 3AR, no later than 28th November 2014.

More detail of the Legal Aid Committee and the consultation can be found at www.gov.im/registries/Legal/civil/legalaidcommittee.xml