Scottish Government Proposes Overhaul of Legal Aid System

5 October 2026

The Scottish Government has initiated a consultation on a new Legal Aid (Scotland) Bill, aiming to modernise and simplify the current system. This move seeks to create a more user-friendly and sustainable framework for publicly funded legal assistance.

Legal aid is essential for ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial status, has access to legal advice and representation. However, the existing system, governed by the Legal Aid (Scotland) Act 1986, has been criticised for its complexity and inefficiency. The proposed reforms intend to address these issues by streamlining processes and making the system more coherent and focused on the needs of users.

One of the key aspects of the consultation is to gather public and professional opinions on how legal aid can be delivered more effectively. The government is particularly interested in simplifying the application process and ensuring that funding is allocated in a way that best serves those in need. The consultation is open until 13 October 2026, and individuals are encouraged to share their views online.

At Thompson Family Law, we understand the importance of accessible legal services. We believe that these proposed reforms have the potential to significantly improve access to justice for many individuals and families across Scotland. By participating in the consultation, you can help shape a legal aid system that is fair, efficient, and responsive to the needs of our communities.

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