MSP's to seek views on making civil action more affordable

MSPs are to consider whether plans aimed at making civil court action more affordable will improve access to justice.

Holyrood's Justice Committee has issued a call for views as part of its examination of the Scottish Government's Civil Litigation Bill.

The legislation aims to make the cost of bringing a civil action more predictable and affordable with measures including a cap on fees payable under no win, no fee'' arrangements.

It would also end the obligation for those unsuccessful in personal injury claims to pay their opponent's legal costs in some cases, and introduce the possibility of group proceedings for people with similar claims.

Committee convener Margaret Mitchell said: This Bill is proposing a significant change to the costs for people in Scotland seeking compensation through the courts.

The committee is hoping to hear views about the Bill's aims and, crucially, whether it will aid access to justice.

Members will be considering whether it strikes the right balance between pursuers and defenders, as well as its impact on the court system and if there are any unintended consequences.''

The committee wants to hear from legal experts, consumer groups, academics and others with an interest in access to justice.

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