Scottish Government Seeks Public Input on Legal Aid Reform

16 September 2026

Access to justice is a cornerstone of a fair society, ensuring that everyone can understand and exercise their rights, especially during challenging times. Recognising the need for a more efficient and user-friendly legal aid system, the Scottish Government has initiated a public consultation on a new Legal Aid (Scotland) Bill, aiming to modernise the current framework.

Legal aid provides financial assistance to individuals who cannot afford legal representation. However, the existing system, governed by the Legal Aid (Scotland) Act 1986, has been criticised for its complexity and inefficiency. The proposed reforms seek to create a simpler, more sustainable, and user-focused framework for publicly funded legal assistance.

Key aspects of the proposed reforms include:

• Simplifying Processes: The current system is often seen as overly complex, making it difficult for individuals to navigate. The new bill aims to streamline procedures, making it easier for people to access the legal support they need.
• Fairer Financial Assessments: The consultation addresses concerns about the fairness of financial assessments. The goal is to establish clear and equitable rules, ensuring that individuals contribute to legal costs based on their financial capacity.
• Enhanced Access to Services: By modernising the system, the government hopes to improve access to legal services, particularly in areas where individuals have struggled to find solicitors willing to undertake legal aid work.

The consultation is open until 13 October 2026, and the government is encouraging input from the public, legal professionals, and other stakeholders. This is a valuable opportunity for individuals to share their experiences and suggestions, helping to shape a legal aid system that truly serves the needs of Scotland's diverse communities.

At Thompson Family Law, we understand the importance of accessible legal support. We encourage our clients and the wider community to participate in this consultation, ensuring that the reformed legal aid system reflects the needs and realities of those it aims to assist.

For more information on the consultation and how to contribute, please visit the Scottish Government's official page: Legal Aid Reform Consultation.