Scottish Government Proposes Legal Aid Reforms to Enhance Access to Justice

2 October 2026

The Scottish Government has recently initiated a consultation on a new Legal Aid (Scotland) Bill, aiming to modernise the legal aid system and enhance access to justice for individuals across the country. This consultation, open until 13 October 2026, seeks public input on proposed reforms designed to create a simpler, more sustainable, and user-focused framework for publicly funded legal assistance. [Source]

Legal aid provides essential support for those who cannot afford legal representation, covering areas such as family law, civil disputes, and criminal cases. However, the current system has faced challenges, including a decline in the number of solicitors offering legal aid services. Between 2022 and 2025, there was a 12.4% decrease in solicitors registered for criminal and children's legal aid, and an 18.3% drop in firms registered for civil legal aid. [Source]

These statistics highlight the urgent need for reform to ensure that individuals can access the legal support they require. The proposed Legal Aid Bill aims to address these issues by simplifying the application process, ensuring fair remuneration for solicitors, and making the system more responsive to the needs of users.

At Thompson Family Law, we understand the importance of accessible legal services. We encourage our clients and the wider community to participate in this consultation, as your feedback will play a crucial role in shaping a legal aid system that serves everyone effectively. To share your views, please visit the Scottish Government's consultation page before the deadline on 13 October 2026. [Source]

By engaging in this process, we can collectively work towards a more equitable and efficient legal aid system, ensuring that justice remains accessible to all members of our society.