Increase in legal aid family law cases

The amount of family law cases involving free legal aid jumped 7% last year, it emerged today.

More than 17,000 people were given free legal services in Ireland in 2006, according to the Legal Aid Board’s annual report.

Family law accounted for the largest area, with legal services supplied in 5,700 cases of divorce, separation and nullity.

Launching the report in Dublin, Justice Minister Brian Lenihan said: “The work that the Board carries out, in line with its legislative mandate, is very important in terms of social inclusion as it provides access to justice in civil cases for the less well off in our society.”

The report found waiting times for a solicitor fell in most of the Board’s law centres last year, with appointments provided within four months.

More people had access to the Board’s services after the state increased the financial eligibility requirements for applicants.

Mr Lenihan welcomed this claiming it highlighted the Government’s commitment to providing legal services for the more vulnerable in society.

The report also revealed that 3,000 new clients registered with the Board’s Refugee Legal Service last year, a 10% drop on 2005.

This was down to fewer numbers seeking asylum in 2006, the report said.

Anne Colley, Legal Aid Board chairperson, said: “In a year in which the total number of persons assisted was close to

17,500, waiting times for an appointment fell in 21 law centres.“

“I would like to commend the Chief Executive and staff of the Legal Aid Board on the strong performance of the organisation in delivering on its objectives for 2006”, she said.