Outcome 2.5.1
“The primary and secondary legal aid system is fully functional and provides equal access to justice for citizens throughout the country (human resources, primary legal aid offices, secondary legal aid providers; appropriate tools, technical ability, etc.).
This outcome is related to two aspects: first, the functionality of the primary and secondary legal aid system, and, second, the application of this system throughout the country, without discrimination, in accordance with the categories that benefit from it. Regarding the part in brackets, related to the activities that need to be completed to increase the capacity of legal aid, we suggest that they either be included as part of the outcome (consolidation of resources and infrastructure) or be avoided and reworded as measures.
Outcome 2.5.1 is in line with Objective 2.5. As we explained above in the framework of Objective 2.4, one of the ways to achieve access to justice is the effective functioning of free legal aid. While the legal framework for legal aid has been completed, the challenge remains to implement it throughout the territory, apply it equally, increase the capacity of Free Legal Aid (FLA) and raise public awareness. This outcome is considered realistic and necessary.
This outcome is in line with CJS I provisions: Objective 3: Improve the operation of the judicial system by strengthening its efficiency, transparency and accessibility in line with European standards; Activity 3.03: Establishment of a fair and functional system of free aid to individuals and groups in need.
Measures to meet this Outcome (2.5.1 -2.5.9) are assessed as complete and clearly formulated.
The indicators for this outcome are “% of applications received for free primary legal aid” and “% of applications received for free secondary legal aid“. The greater the number of persons who benefit from legal aid, the more functional the system is and consequently the access to justice for the vulnerable. Another indicator that measures the impact of assistance for access to justice is the indicator “% of the state budget allocated to the FLA.”
Conclusion: This outcome is related to the functionality of one of the most important systems for access to the justice system – that of legal aid. It is in line with Objective 2.4; it is current and indispensable.