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The bigger picture

16 November 2012 / Ruth Daniel
Issue: 7538 / Categories: Opinion , Legal aid focus , Legal services , Profession
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Ruth Daniel highlights the importance of pro bono work following recent legal reform

The principle of access to justice is of central importance to a just society in which those deserving of a legal remedy can access a court in which that remedy can be delivered. Unfortunately, a lack of resources means that such access is not always available to those who need representation.

Government cuts in funding have amplified this lack of resources and, although pro bono cannot be a substitute for legal aid, those who work in the pro bono sector, or who campaign to broaden access to justice, are fulfiling an important role in helping those who cannot afford legal representation.

Cross-profession initiative

Established in 2008, the Access to Justice Foundation is a cross-profession initiative that provides funding and support to charities that give free legal help to those in need. Working closely with the pro bono and advice sector, the foundation raises funds through a variety of schemes and distributes those funds to organisations and projects that

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Birketts—trainee cohort

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