Government tackles unaffordable legal aid costs

We can’t keep ignoring the significant cost pressures the legal aid system is facing. That’s why National is taking steps to get costs under control. The legal aid bill has grown 55 per cent in the last three years to $172 million in 2009/10. Left unchecked, the bill for legal aid services could blow out by $402 million over the next five years. We expect to reduce spending by $138 million over four years, starting in 2011/12. National remains committed to ensuring access to justice for those who need it. Changes to eligibility will not affect cases involving vulnerable parties, the care and protection of children or serious criminal matters. More information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/proposals-tackle-unaffordable-growth-legal-aid