THE Attorney-General Graham Leung has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the Legal Aid Commission, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring equal access to justice for all Fijians.
Speaking in Parliament during the debate on the Commission’s consolidated reports, Mr Leung said the Legal Aid Commission must be accessible.
“The Legal Aid Commission should be accessible, sustainable, affordable, and accountable,” he said.
Mr Leung said that legal aid services were targeted at those in genuine need, with eligibility based on an annual income threshold of $15,000.
“Mr Speaker, this criteria is strictly applied to ensure that the free legal services are extended only to those who are rightfully deserving of such services. The services of the Legal Aid Commission directly benefit the community, especially those who cannot afford legal services supplied or extended by legal practitioners,” he said.
“The commission plays a fundamental role in delivering justice across all communities. It provides legal advice on family law, attests legal documents, and represents clients in civil and criminal matters.
Addressing concerns raised by the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, Mr Leung acknowledged challenges such as high caseloads, limited outreach to remote communities, and legal staff retention.
“The Attorney-General’s chambers has noted the recommendations … in particular, high caseload, the need for greater awareness, the need to serve remote outlying communities, and the support for professional officers. It is our intention that those gaps and concerns which are valid will be addressed in the near future,” Mr Leung said.
“The Legal Aid Commission performs an important service to the people of this country, especially with respect to those less fortunate, less privileged members of society who are able, not able, to afford legal representation.”
