Scottish Legal Aid Reform: A Step Towards Fairer Access to Justice

22 October 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. In Scotland, the legal aid system plays a pivotal role in this, offering publicly funded support to those who might otherwise be unable to afford legal representation.

Recently, the Scottish Government has taken significant steps to reform and enhance this system. A key development is the introduction of a 13% increase in solicitor fees, set to take effect in September 2026. This adjustment aims to address longstanding concerns about the sustainability of legal aid services and to ensure that solicitors are fairly compensated for their vital work.

In addition to the fee increase, reforms to children's and criminal legal aid are scheduled for implementation by the end of the year. These changes are designed to simplify processes, reduce administrative burdens, and make the system more responsive to the needs of those it serves.

To support the next generation of legal professionals, a new £1.5 million Legal Aid Traineeship Fund has been established. This initiative will fund up to 40 trainees across Scotland, fostering fresh talent and ensuring the continued provision of quality legal aid services.

Furthermore, the establishment of the Independent Fee Review Mechanism Group marks a proactive approach to addressing the longer-term challenges within the legal aid system. This group is tasked with considering comprehensive changes to create a legal assistance framework fit for the 21st century.

These reforms come at a crucial time. The legal aid system currently supports around 170,000 grants each year, with total expenditure reaching £169 million in 2024-25—the highest annual spend on legal aid in Scotland to date. Such figures underscore the essential role legal aid plays in our justice system.

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 profound impact that accessible legal services have on individuals and families. These reforms represent a positive step towards ensuring that everyone in Scotland can access the legal support they need, when they need it.

While these changes are promising, it's essential to remain vigilant and ensure that the reforms translate into tangible benefits for those who rely on legal aid. Continued dialogue between the government, legal professionals, and the communities we serve will be key to achieving a fairer, more accessible justice system for all.