|
The Law Institute of Victoria Legal Assistance Scheme ('the Scheme') is an initiative of the Young Lawyers' section of the Law Institute. The Scheme was established in association with the Victoria Law Foundation and Victoria University in February 1999.
Throughout 2001 and 2002, considerable effort was made to finalise arrangements for the administration of the Scheme by PILCH. These efforts culminated in October 2002, with the commencement of a six month trial of this new arrangement, which sees the Scheme joining the Public Interest Scheme and the Victorian Bar Legal Assistance Scheme in being administrated by PILCH from its premises.
The Scheme screens and channels requests for legal assistance to volunteer solicitors who undertake pro bono legal work for the clients. The Scheme requires that clients have exhausted other avenues for legal assistance, and that they meet a means test. The Scheme was administered for 18 months at the premises of the LIV before negotiations commenced for the current trial from PILCH's offices. The Scheme's solicitor and administrator have been hired on a part-time basis by PILCH for the duration of this trial period. The LIV will be providing funds to support the establishment of the Scheme at PILCH. It is hoped that, if successful, the arrangement between PILCH and the LIV will continue.
The Scheme was re-launched on the 14th May 2003. The aims of the trial period are to promote the Scheme among the legal profession, community organisations and the general public, and to review its guidelines and procedures for it to function as effectively and efficiently as possible. The Scheme will also foster the development of pro bono services within the Victorian legal profession, with the aim of increasing access to the legal system for eligible clients.
|
