Scottish Government Launches Consultation to Reform Legal Aid System

2 August 2026

The Scottish Government has recently initiated a consultation aimed at overhauling the legal aid system to make it more efficient and user-friendly. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure that legal assistance is accessible to all who need it, regardless of their financial situation.

Legal aid provides publicly funded legal assistance to individuals who cannot afford legal representation. It covers various areas, including family law and civil disputes, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to pursue or defend their legal rights.

The proposed reforms focus on several key areas:

• Simplifying Processes: Streamlining procedures to reduce duplication and expedite decision-making, making the system more efficient for both clients and legal professionals.
• Enhancing Access: Improving the ease with which individuals can access legal aid services, ensuring that those in need can obtain assistance promptly.
• Empowering Solicitors: Providing greater autonomy to accredited solicitors, allowing them to make decisions that best serve their clients' interests.

These proposals build upon recent initiatives, such as a 13% increase in solicitor fees set to take effect in September, reforms to children's and criminal legal aid, and the establishment of a £1.5 million Legal Aid Traineeship Fund to support up to 40 trainees across Scotland. Additionally, an Independent Fee Review Mechanism Group has been established to consider long-term changes needed to create a legal assistance system fit for the 21st century.

Minister for Victims and Community Safety, Kirsten Oswald, emphasized the importance of these reforms, stating, "At its heart, this is about building a legal aid system that works better for the people who rely on it and the professionals who deliver it." She encourages all interested parties to share their views during the consultation period, which runs until 13 October 2026.

At Thompson Family Law, we recognize the significance of these proposed changes. A modernized legal aid system can greatly benefit individuals seeking assistance in family law matters, civil disputes, and other areas. We encourage our clients and the wider community to participate in the consultation process to help shape a legal aid system that is fair, accessible, and responsive to the needs of all Scots.

If you have any questions about how these potential reforms might affect you or if you require legal assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here to provide support and guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.