The deadline for submissions to the historic review of the Civil Legal Aid scheme has been extended until 28 February.

All users are encouraged to engage with the review group that is examining the effectiveness of the scheme.

This is the first such review of the scheme since it was established over 40 years ago to provide citizens on low incomes access to legal support for cases. 

This legal resource affects thousands of cases in the Irish courts every year.

Legal costs

Review chair, former Chief Justice Frank Clarke, said that many people facing separation, divorce, maintenance, or child-custody issues found themselves concerned about the legal costs of going to court, and relied on the civil legal-aid system to support them through the process. 

“The feedback we have gotten suggests this is a crucial lifeline to thousands annually. Now, we are reviewing the frame of reference for the civil legal-aid system and asking if it appropriately addresses the needs of those who need it.” 

The review will examine whether support should be extended to citizens facing housing or employment issues.

The question of whether access thresholds should be revised, at a time of rapid increases in the cost of living, will also be looked at.

The extended deadline is being offered to give pertinent organisations and individuals additional time to reflect on and finalise their responses.

Echoing Mr Justice Clarke’s calls for participation, Minister for Justice Simon Harris said:

“It’s important for us as legislators and policy-makers to hear from the people who will be affected by our decisions, and we want to ensure that as many people as possible get the chance to have their voices heard. 

Shape the future

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help shape the future of this scheme, to ensure that the support it provides is accessible, fair, and effective.

Submissions to the stakeholder consultation can be made by email to legalaidcivil@justice.ie. Full details can be found online.