Free advice offered as fears grow of Devon becoming a 'legal help desert'
A trial scheme offering no appointment and free legal advice sessions on Devon's beaches continues today
A trial Devon scheme - offering free legal advice on beaches - is entering its final day.
Law students from the University of Exeter and local solicitors will be at Teignmouth Yacht Club from 10am-3.30pm, after also running a session in Exmouth yesterday.
Professor of Law Sue Prince has likened Devon to a 'legal desert' for some, due to the rising costs of living and reducing free legal support.
Students who've been taking part say they hope the sessions can be repeated next Summer too - and say their 'Community Law Clinic', which works in a very similar way alongside legal professionals, will continue all-year round.
The University’s Law Clinic already helps people with issues ranging from housing, employment and immigration by offering confidential advice to those who've got in touch.
“Law on the Beach” was the idea of Professor Sue Prince from the University of Exeter Law School and is inspired by a similar idea run by the University of Newcastle Law School in Australia. It is supported by leading law firms including Trowers and Hamlins, Scott Richards Solicitors and the Teignbridge Citizens Advice Bureau.
Ms Prince said; "The aim is to support those impacted by the cost-of-living crisis with an urgent need for legal assistance and give students valuable learning opportunities.
" It can be harder for people living in seaside or rural areas to access legal support. Reforms also mean legal aid is now less available."
Kim McDonald, Senior Lecturer and Director of the Community Law Clinic at the University of Exeter, added: "Amidst the cost-of-living crisis, ensuring everyone has access to essential legal assistance is paramount.
"Too many do not have access to justice or legal aid. We hope Law on the Beach will empower individuals facing legal challenges intensified by the current economic climate and provide a lifeline to those navigating complex legal issues without adequate support."
Dr Craig Newbery-Jones, Associate Professor in Law at the University of Exeter Law School, said: "This initiative not only addresses a critical societal need but also provides our students with invaluable practical experience.
"By working alongside experienced professionals and tackling real-world legal challenges, our students will develop the skills and empathy needed to be effective advocates for justice."
"Those involved in Law on the Beach will also carry out research into the impact of pro bono legal advice on communities and look to establish the specific unmet legal needs of local communities."