Our key objective is to improve access to justice in Fife for those that either cannot afford to pay for legal services or who have difficulty accessing legal aid or other forms of legal representation.
Home Owner and Debtor Protection (Scotland) Bill
According to official figures, repossessions are at their highest level in over a decade. As Minister for Housing Alex Neil has said “too many Scots find themselves caught in a debt trap, putting family homes and families at risk”. The Home Owner & Debtor Protection (Scotland) Bill, which was unanimously passed by Parliament on 11 February, is designed to enhance protection forhomeowners who are facing repossession, bankruptcy and trust deeds.
The main proposals of the Bill include arequirement for all repossession cases to be heard in court; the requirement that creditors take reasonable steps to avoid repossessions occurring and an opportunity for homeowners to be represented by lay representatives from approved organisations in court.
Harriet Harman recently confirmed that the Equality Bill will be passed before the end of Parliament. The Bill is another positive step in helping to tackle discrimination.
SM, as guardian of the child JM (Petitioner) v Advocate General for Scotland acting on behalf of the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, [2010] CSOH 15
