Victorian Legal Aid Flashcards
(6 cards)
1
Q
role
A
a government agency that provides free legal information to the community and advice and representation for people who cannot afford it
prioritises people who need it the most but cannot get it
2
Q
types of assistance
A
- free legal information (available to all victims and citizens)
- help before court (offers legal advice in person or by video, only available if the court is Magistrates)
- duty lawyer services (lawyer available to give info, offer advice, and represent an accused)
- grants of legal assistance (given to those who cannot afford a lawyer - preparing legal docs, helping resolve matters, VLA or private lawyer)
3
Q
income test
A
a test applied to determine whether a duty lawyer can represent an accused
if passes, individuals can produce a Centrelink card, Pensioner Concession card, or sign a declaration
4
Q
means test
A
- a test to determine whether applicants apply for assistance or representation
- means, assets, and expenses
5
Q
strengths
A
- free legal advice for all
- assistance and advice through grants or duty lawyers
- provided in many languages
6
Q
weaknesses
A
- free information is not enough for some
- limited resources (people may not be eligible for assistance through VLA)
- VLA relies on continued funding
- some people may not be aware of VLA
