Quality Standards for Legal Aid

Practical professional framework

Quality Standards define the mandatory level of timely, complete and professional free secondary legal aid

They do not replace a lawyer’s independent professional judgement. They establish a common framework within which the lawyer agrees the legal position with the client and acts in the client’s interests using all lawful means.

Professional foundation

Principles underpinning the Standards

Rule of lawLegalityIndependence of the legal professionConfidentialityAvoidance of conflicts of interestPriority of the client’s interestsCompetence and integrity

At every stage

Core duties of a lawyer

First confidential meeting

Explain rights, clarify the client’s position, identify urgent risks and agree secure communication.

Legal strategy

Examine the facts and evidence, explain realistic options and agree the legal position with the client.

Procedural action

Meet deadlines, participate actively, submit reasoned applications and challenge violations.

Communication and records

Keep the client informed and maintain the records required to demonstrate proper performance.

Official sources

Current Quality Standards

Use the official legal database to verify that you are consulting the latest version and amendments.

Criminal proceedingsQuality Standards for free secondary legal aid in criminal proceedings Civil and administrative proceedingsQuality Standards for representation in civil and administrative proceedings

Professional independence remains essential

Quality assessment must not interfere with the lawyer’s independent position, legal privilege or confidentiality.