Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Paragraph: 67
The Government should evaluate whether the money saved by the means test is justified when...
Recommendation
The Government should evaluate whether the money saved by the means test is justified when weighed against its impact on the fairness of criminal justice system. If the means tests for the magistrates’ court and the Crown Court are to remain then the current eligibility thresholds should be addressed and thereafter automatically uprated every year in line with inflation.
Paragraph Reference:
67
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The legal aid means test is designed to ensure that legal aid is targeted at those most in need. We are aware that it has been some years since the eligibility thresholds have been uprated, and that is why, in February 2019, the Government launched the Means Test Review. The review is assessing the effectiveness with which the means test ensures access to justice. It is considering the income and capital thresholds for civil and criminal legal aid, as well as other areas including passporting provisions for people receiving certain benefits. We intend to publish the review alongside a public consultation shortly.