Scottish Government Announces 13% Increase in Legal Aid Fees

24 August 2026

Access to justice is a cornerstone of a fair society, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can seek legal assistance when needed. Recognising this, the Scottish Government has announced a significant 13% increase in legal aid fees for solicitors, effective from September 2026. This uplift is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the legal aid system and support legal professionals dedicated to serving the community.

Legal aid is vital for individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford legal representation. It covers various areas, including family law and civil disputes, ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to defend their rights and interests. The forthcoming fee increase aims to address longstanding concerns about the sustainability of providing legal aid services, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of solicitors in this field.

In addition to the fee increase, the government is introducing funding for up to 40 Legal Aid Traineeship places. This initiative is designed to attract new talent into the legal aid sector, ensuring its vitality and resilience for the future. Furthermore, there will be digital support to help firms acquire technology that assists trainees in their work and court appearances, reflecting the evolving nature of legal practice in the digital age.

Since 2019, cumulative fee increases have amounted to just over 25%, outpacing inflation and bringing total additional funding to £31 million. This sustained investment underscores the government's commitment to a robust legal aid system that serves the needs of all Scots.

Siobhian Brown, Minister for Victims and Community Safety, emphasised the importance of these reforms, stating, "Access to justice is a fundamental right and we want to ensure people get the help they need and that there are solicitors available to provide it." This statement highlights the dual focus of the initiative: supporting individuals in need and ensuring that legal professionals are adequately resourced to offer their services.

At Thompson Family Law, we welcome these developments. As a family-run firm with offices in Glasgow (Bishopbriggs), Edinburgh, Coatbridge, and Airdrie, we understand the critical role that legal aid plays in our communities. This increase in fees and the additional support measures will enable us to continue providing high-quality legal assistance to those who need it most.

For individuals seeking legal aid, it's essential to understand your eligibility and the types of cases covered. Legal aid can assist with various issues, including family disputes, housing problems, and civil matters. If you're unsure about your eligibility or need guidance on how to proceed, our team at Thompson Family Law is here to help. We believe that everyone deserves access to justice, and we're committed to supporting our clients through every step of the legal process.

In conclusion, the upcoming increase in legal aid fees is a positive step towards strengthening Scotland's justice system. By investing in legal professionals and ensuring that legal aid remains accessible and sustainable, the Scottish Government is reaffirming its commitment to justice for all. At Thompson Family Law, we're proud to be part of this mission, offering compassionate and expert legal support to our clients across Scotland.