Domestic Abuse Legal Advice
2021-06-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of legal advice deserts on victims of domestic abuse who need to access justice.
What recent assessment has been made of the effect of legal advice deserts on the ability of victims of domestic abuse to access justice?
We are committed to ensuring that civil legal aid remains accessible to those who need it, including victims of domestic abuse. The Legal Aid Agency keeps market capacity under review to ensure adequate provision across England and Wales. We are reviewing the legal aid means test in relation to victims of domestic abuse. On 3 March, the Chancellor announced a further £19 million package to tackle domestic abuse.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a recent assessment or specific details on how legal advice deserts affect victims' access to justice.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP notes that many victims of domestic abuse still face representation issues in the family court as litigants in person.
Too many victims of domestic abuse end up in the family court without representation. Should legal aid be made available for all victims of domestic abuse?
The hon. Lady is absolutely right that legal aid is vital support for many people, which is why we have relaxed evidence requirements for those seeking access to legal aid. We also support organisations like RCJ Advice through its Finding Legal Options for Women Survivors service, a digital portal assisting victims in obtaining non-molestation or occupation orders.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to making legal aid universally available for all domestic abuse victims.
Response accuracy