Former magistrate highlights importance of free legal services

A former magistrate has spoken out about the importance of free legal services.

Anthony Martin, who spent 24 years in the profession before retiring, made the comments to the Express & Echo.

Mr Martin said that justice was now being snatched from some people as they were struggling to obtain free legal advice and professionals to represent them in court.

The former magistrate, who practiced in Exeter, added that victims of crime must not be forgotten.

He said: "It is important for a magistrate to recognise that there are all sorts of ways in which lives are lived in this country and that some people don't stand a chance. They have had it seriously difficult, in either their upbringing at home or their education."

In addition, these people and others may no longer be able to access justice if the government's plan to make cuts to the tune of £350 million to the legal aid budget is carried out.

Published by Hannah Carr