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legal ch 4.1
u3 aos1 criminal justice system
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| VLA | government agency that provides free legal advice to the community for little to no cost |
| vla Vision | fair a just society where rights and responsibilities are upheld |
| vla act | Legal Aid Act 1978 (Vic) |
| how is vla funded | Funded by the Commonwealth and Victorian Government but operates independently. |
| objectes of vla | Provide legal aid in an effective, economic and efficient manner. Manage resources so it’s available at a reasonable cost and on an equitable basis |
| other roles of VLA | Make recommendations about Law reform, control legal aid fund, Educate the public of their rights, powers, privileges and duties |
| Law reform | the process of constantly updating and changing the law so it remains relevant and effective |
| examples of free legal info | Free publications and resources, a public law library, telephone information |
| who can receive free legal info | Available to everyone |
| how is free legal advice given | In person, video conference, over the phone |
| who can receive free legal advice | Cannot afford a private lawyer, Mental or physical impairment, Homeless, Children, LOTE, Indigenous Australians, Risk of family or sexual violence, In custody |
| Duty lawyer | VLA lawyer who is at court on a particular day and can help people who are there for their hearing that day |
| what can a duty lawer do | Can give fact sheets, offer legal advice, represent an accused on the day |
| what test must you pass to receive free legal advice | income test |
| example of Grants of legal assistance | Legal advice, helping the accused resolve matters, preparing legal documents, representing the accused in court |
| how does vla prioritise? | means/income test, does it benefit the public? |
| how to see if eligible for grants | means test |
| S197 of Criminal Procedures Act 2009 (Vic) | Gives courts the power to adjourn trials until legal representation from VLA has been provided |
| why is legal rep so improtant | Cannot receive a fair trial without legal rep, gives both sides opportunity to present their case |