Scottish Government Launches Consultation to Reform Legal Aid System

30 August 2026

The Scottish Government has initiated a public consultation to gather views on proposed reforms to the legal aid system. This initiative aims to modernize the system, making it more accessible and efficient for both users and legal professionals.

Legal aid provides financial assistance to individuals who cannot afford legal representation, ensuring access to justice. The current system supports approximately 170,000 grants annually, with expenditures reaching £169 million in 2024-25—the highest on record.

The proposed reforms focus on several key areas:

• Simplifying Processes: Streamlining procedures to reduce duplication and expedite decision-making.
• Improving Access: Enhancing the system to better serve those who rely on legal aid.
• Empowering Solicitors: Granting greater autonomy to accredited solicitors to improve service delivery.

These proposals build upon recent actions, including a 13% increase in solicitor fees effective from September and the establishment of a £1.5 million Legal Aid Traineeship Fund to support up to 40 trainees across Scotland.

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."

The consultation is open until 13 October 2026, and the government encourages all interested parties to share their views. This is a pivotal opportunity to shape a legal aid system that is fairer, more accessible, and fit for the future.

At Thompson Family Law, we recognize the critical role legal aid plays in ensuring justice for all. We encourage our clients and colleagues to participate in this consultation, contributing to the development of a system that effectively serves Scotland's diverse communities.