updated on 16 September 2020
LawWorks and Deloitte Legal are inviting solicitors across the profession to participate in a new pro bono service to improve access to justice through technology.
Solicitors pro bono group LawWorks, supported by Deloitte Legal, is developing and launching Free Legal Answers – an online platform that connects people in need of legal advice with lawyers on a pro bono basis. The platform was in the early stages of a pilot at the beginning of August, having provided advice to more than 50 clients. This number is expected to grow.
In early August 90 lawyers had signed up to the platform and LawWorks called for more solicitors to get involved in the project – in particular, those with experience in housing, family and employment law.
The American Bar Association (ABA) supports an established ‘Free Legal Answers’ website in the US and LawWorks has been given a licence to introduce the service in England and Wales. Deloitte Legal has provided management and technical expertise to help configure and test the website to ensure it fits the legal environment in England and Wales.
A growing network of organisations, including advice agencies, are referring individuals who cannot afford to pay for legal advice to the platform; they can then register and ask a legal question.
Lawyers who are involved in the project can preview and respond to the questions at any time from anywhere. The platform will also improve access for individuals with social mobility issues, health issues, covid-19 restrictions, etc who are unable to physically attend pro bono centres.
LawWorks’ professional indemnity insurance will insure all advice provided via the website.
The initiative mirrors Deloitte’s ‘One Million Futures’ plan, which intends to support one million people by improving access to education and employment, raising aspirations, improving skills and developing leaders.
UK managing partner at Deloitte Legal Michael Castle said: “Justice is a fundamental right for everyone. It should not be exclusive for those who can afford it. We have assisted LawWorks in configuring this innovative, secure platform, with our deep understanding of how technology can improve the delivery of legal services. Its ultimate aim is to reduce physical barriers around access to justice, allowing individuals and lawyers to connect in a more flexible and accessible way.”
Meanwhile, Martin Barnes, LawWorks’ chief executive said: “Pro bono is not and should not be seen as an alternative to legal aid, but it can help enable people to access the timely advice they need and which they cannot afford to pay for. We are excited about the potential for ‘Free Legal Answers’ to provide new pro bono opportunities for lawyers willing to give their time and expertise for free."