Clerk Of The House (Mr. David Hamilton) on Return To Written Question 1-12(3) And 2-12(3): Summary Of Costs Paid By The Legal Services Board

In the Legislative Assembly on February 19th, 1993. See this statement in context.

Return To Written Question 1-12(3) And 2-12(3): Summary Of Costs Paid By The Legal Services Board
Item 8: Returns To Written Questions

February 18th, 1993

Page 519

Clerk Of The House Mr. David Hamilton

The honourable Member has provided a list of specific court cases and asked for a summary of legal aid costs paid on behalf of people involved in appeals and in new trials after successful appearances in those matters.

Legal aid is a form of social assistance. As such, there are issues of privacy involved in the provision of legal aid. Figures may be made available indicating the total amounts of legal aid costs or the number of civil and criminal clients over a period of time. However, even to suggest that any of the people

involved in the matters listed have received legal aid, would be a breach of the privacy of the individuals involved.

With that in mind, I am advised that some but not all of the cases you mentioned involved legally-aided clients. Of the 26 cases named, the total fees and disbursements or expenses paid out by legal aid for appeals and retrials was approximately $160,000.

I believe in an open and accountable system of justice and would be happy to offer whatever assistance I can to the honourable Member in providing any other information that does not involve an infringement of the privacy of clients.

See context to find out what was said next.

Clerk Of The House (Mr. David Hamilton) on Return To Written Question 1-12(3) And 2-12(3): Summary Of Costs Paid By The Legal Services Board

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