LESSON 13.6 Can everyone access justice?
LEARNING INTENTION By the end of this lesson you should be able to explain how Australians can access justice and legal representation.
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FIGURE1 A robot lawyer is a legal AI application that can perform tasks that are typically done by young associates at law ýrms. Typically, people seeking legal assistance will complete a series of questions relevant to the help or advice they need. The robot lawyer then uses AI software to provide automated legal advice.
1. Brainstorm the reasons people might have difýculty accessing the criminal justice system. 2. How do you think robot lawyers work? 3. What problems might occur with this type of assistance?
13.6.1 Difýculties in gaining access to the legal system All Australians should have access to justice. We all have the right to legal representation, but some people cannot access the law for various reasons. Some people may not understand the law. Those with limited English might struggle to explain their problems. They may not know their rights or where to get help. Some might feel scared of lawyers or can’t afford one. Our legal system has devised ways of providing access to justice and legal representation for everyone. 13.6.2 Legal aid Not everyone can afford to pay for a lawyer. In Australia, legal aid is important for access to justice. Without it, some people wouldn’t have a lawyer and could lose their right to a fair trial. Legal aid is provided for people who can’t afford a lawyer. It is offered by legal aid commissions, community legal centres and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ legal services.
TOPIC13 Laws and citizens 501
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