in Divorce & Separation

“Justice is open to all, like the Ritz Hotel.”

by The Group Hug September 9, 2021, 9:35 pm 1.8k Views

Upon embarking on my journey as a hopeful legal scholar and aspirational practitioner, the first indicator of what to expect from the practice world was the following statement made by Sir James Mathew “Justice is open to all, like the Ritz Hotel.”

Access for all

Much discussion has taken place of late with Covid-19 ressurecting the issues around access to justice. The ongoing symptoms of austerity, particularly cuts to legal aid initiated great academic, practice and philosophical debate around justice and what it meant to the individuals seeking it. It did not inspire until quite recently any impetus to shake up the legal practice sectors’ status quo.

The sanctity of the LPC/BPTC arena remained firmly preserved until the latest challenges of the SQC pathway and CILEX accreditation. Both geared to address the socio-economic barriers to practice and advocacy. However, The traditional service offered by the legal sector continued to be at odds with the society it served. Those claiming universal credit are able to claim legal aid in limited circumstances. Meanwhile, the more fortunate are expected to write the cheque for legal fees stripping them of life savings and sometimes the roof over their heads. In order to secure adversarial positions are relayed “advantageously“ to courts.

Can you afford it?

But what of the financial intermediaries, those who fell short to the legal aid cuts. Individuals who continue to feel the ever-tightening financial squeeze of the 21^st century. Those whom do not qualify for legal aid and seldom afford retainer fees. With Family court proceedings often running in to the tens of thousands and costs awards.

As Peri the Paralegal, I attempted to disrupt the legal sector in the most positive way possible. I designed an equivalent of a red letter day at the Ritz. In a manner that is often welcomed by judges and barristers alike, as a paralegal who can bridge the chasm that has swallowed so many families and has received such criticism.

As with any challenge, legitimacy remains pivotal to success. This is where the clever bit arises in this alternative legal structure. Regulation has become a vital aspect to how we trust sectors. The efforts to demonstrate strong regulatory standards and voluntary adherence to best practice have now emerged as a means to solving both solutions within the industry.

Are you a Litigant in Person (LiP)?

Litigants in Person can be a source of frustration to court proceedings where emotive and financial barriers hold little bearing. Procedural guidance alone is an invaluable asset when trying to navigate the family court system. Paralegals are able to offer this ongoing support to LiPs seeking help there are numerous unknown unknowns and the stakes are so high. A key role is explaining and empowering, as well as providing emotional support. All three can only be delivered well with a clear grasp of the law.

Justice for all

Many purists may be discontented with such a new approach, however, this does not detract from the Ritz’ fine ambiance. It merely extends a rather marvellous garden space to those whom would never have crossed the threshold otherwise, however deservingly.

All that is left to say is the scope for a timely resolution remains with the loudest calls for reform, from so many demographics. I will endeavour to continuing finding innovative solutions and facilitating access to to justice for private family clients.