the need for legal practitioners

Question 1

what is the role of a legal practioner? and what are the 2 types of practitioners?

Answer 1

their role is to use their expert knowledge to prepare and conduct a case on the behalf of the parties to try and achieve success.
Barristers - self-employed
solicitors - firm or partnership

Question 2

why are legal practitioners needed?

Answer 2

they have experience in: following court processes, collecting evidence, presenting cases and maintaining proper decorum in court.
party without legal representation may struggle with: presenting their case, understanding legal jargon, cross-examining witnesses, remaining objective.

Question 3

obtaining legal aid?

Answer 3

difficult to get aid from VLA for civil disputes because:
- most of legal assistance is for criminal and family law
- advice from VLA may not cover civil matters
- VLA is financially limited

Question 4

what are strengths legal practitioners?

Answer 4

• they are experts who can navigate the civil justice system
• they are objective (e.g. negotiate to a settlement)

Question 5

what are weaknesses of legal practitioners?

Answer 5

• not all legal practitioners have the same level of experience, quality of service varies
• not everyone can afford legal practitioners