We believe the legal aid means test is outdated, unfair and doesn't reflect the cost of living. We are concerned that women are being trapped in unsafe situations or denied justice as they earn slightly too much on paper. No mother should have to choose between safety and justice due to her salary.
We're calling for a fairer system to protect mothers and children. Government should review family court legal aid for mothers who have survived domestic abuse. We urge Government to raise the legal aid threshold so more working mothers can access aid. Government should also introduce an emergency legal aid voucher scheme for survivors just above the threshold to contribute towards legal costs. The review should consider how the process for survivors to prove abuse and access legal aid can be simplified.