Scottish Government Pledges Legal Aid Reform Within a Year

4 September 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 the challenges within the current system, the Scottish Government has committed to introducing a Legal Aid (Scotland) Bill within the first year of the new Parliament. This initiative aims to modernise and enhance the legal aid framework, making it more accessible and effective for those who rely on it.

The proposed reforms are built upon several key principles:

• Broad Availability: Legal aid should be widely accessible to those in need.
• Demand-Driven: The system should respond to the actual needs of the population.
• Publicly Funded Private Solicitors: Legal aid services should be delivered by private solicitors funded by the public sector.
• Targeted Support: Assistance should be directed towards individuals least able to afford legal services.

These principles aim to create a more responsive and equitable legal aid system, ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive the support they need.

Serena Sutherland, President of the Law Society of Scotland, highlighted the significance of this commitment, stating, "The Scottish government has acknowledged Scotland’s legal aid crisis by committing to this bill in the first year of the new Parliament. This is an enormously significant moment for our justice sector."

While this commitment is a positive step, it's essential to acknowledge the existing challenges. Reports have indicated that individuals eligible for legal aid often struggle to find solicitors willing to take on their cases. Factors such as low remuneration rates have made it financially unviable for many solicitors to undertake legal aid work, leading to "advice deserts" in certain areas, particularly in family law and cases involving domestic abuse.

At Thompson Family Law, we understand the critical importance of accessible legal services. We remain committed to supporting our clients through these evolving changes, ensuring they receive the guidance and representation they deserve. As the proposed reforms progress, we will continue to provide updates and insights to help our clients navigate the legal landscape effectively.

For those seeking legal assistance, it's crucial to stay informed about these developments. We encourage individuals to reach out with any questions or concerns, and we are here to provide the support and information needed during this transitional period.