ABU DHABI // The judicial department said it spent Dh2.7 million on legal aid last year on those unable to afford paying court and legal fees.
The number of people benefiting or turning to legal aid has increased dramatically since its inception in 2009, it was announced during the monthly media forum held by Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.
Five years ago there were 201 requests for financial allowances at a cost of Dh537,500. In 2013, there were 594 requests, with Dh2.7 million spent on legal aid.
The section aims to provide comprehensive information and aid to everyone involved in a lawsuit.
So far this year the section appointed 149 lawyers for clients who needed one but could not afford them.
The department also launched a new service so clients could make appointments online rather than wait in line to be assisted. Clients have to a maximum of three days before being assisted.
The e-appointment also provides options to chose a translator or certain requirements so the client does not waste time going back and forth, said Mona Al Raisi, head of the legal aid section.
One group to benefit from the legal aid has been housewives, said Khamis Al Qubaisi, head of the lawyers’ affairs section at the department.
He said 81 women fighting for custody of their children had sort legal aid last year, out of which 38 were Emiratis and 43 expats.
“We do not differentiate between any nationality or religion,” he said.
A total of 253 juveniles also used the services.
hdajani@thenational.ae
