The Minister for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector, Jonathan Attard, launched the 'Legal Aid Management System' (LAMS), a new digital platform aimed at making access to legal aid more efficient and citizen oriented. This platform will lead to a more modern, accessible, and transparent judicial system.
While addressing the launch which took place at the Public Service Expo Village 2025, Minister Attard reiterated the Government's commitment to strengthening services offered to vulnerable individuals in need of legal assistance. This is demonstrated by an investment of nearly a quarter of a million euros in this project, funded under the NextGenerationEU programme.
"This step represents a clear vision towards justice as a right accessible to all, not a privilege for the few. The Legal Aid Management System is the result of extensive collaboration with various stakeholders and will minimize the barriers individuals face when seeking legal aid. Applications can now be submitted online or through servizz.gov hubs located in various localities across Malta, including Birgu, Żejtun, Birkirkara, and St Paul's Bay," explained Minister Attard.
The minister further stated that this system will not only provide a more accessible and professional service, but also offer a robust tool to legal professionals for structured and transparent case management, while ensuring that the service remains humane and dignified.
Attard also spoke about a 38% increase in the financial allocation for the Legal Aid Agency compared to the previous year, and the unprecedented investment in human resources, as the number of lawyers at the Agency increased from 24 to 56 to provide a more specialized and professional service.
"In the past year alone, over 2,000 requests for legal aid were made, with around 500 more in the first quarter of this year. This confirms that the service is both necessary and effectively reaching those who truly need it," added Minister Attard.