The Law Society has released its final report under the 21st Century Justice project, launched in 2022 to address persistent barriers to access to civil justice in England and Wales. With only one in five people believing justice is accessible, the Society outlines six practical recommendations aimed at delivering a more inclusive, responsive and modern justice system.
These include the development of a single trusted legal information portal, ethical integration of AI in legal services, a sustainable civil legal aid system, reform of ombudsman schemes, responsible expansion of unbundled legal services, and increased awareness of legal expenses insurance. The recommendations aim to enhance access for individuals navigating disputes involving housing, employment, and small businesses.
The report also emphasises the importance of government investment, simplification of legal aid processes, and collaboration across legal and technology sectors. The proposals respond to growing public need and align with wider government efforts to modernise the professional and business services sector, including legal services.
Building on extensive engagement with members, stakeholders, and research into international models such as the Netherlands’ “high trust” approach, the Law Society calls for targeted, evidence-based reform to ensure civil justice remains a public good. The report reinforces the profession’s role in upholding justice for all and sets a clear roadmap for meaningful change.