Bridging the Justice Gap - How Smart Technology Can Support Access to Legal Advice for Underserved Communities
British Institute of International and Comparative Law for EdenReach
Access to justice is a cornerstone of the rule of law. However, many individuals and communities continue to face barriers to obtaining the legal advice and representation they need. Cuts to legal aid, combined with social inequalities and geographic isolation, have left significant gaps in support, particularly for the most vulnerable.
BIICL is undertaking a research project, which seeks to address this gap by exploring the ways in which smart technology can support access to justice. In particular we are examining how smart technology can address critical gaps by improving legal services within legal advice providers and third sector organisations.
Specifically, this project seeks to:
- Map underserved communities, providing an overview of the communities identified as under-served by legal services, including the factors contributing to their vulnerabilities.
- Identify organizations (by category) that are offering services to these communities, highlighting the challenges they face and the impact of their work.
- Examine potential role of AI in supporting and enhancing the delivery of legal services, including key considerations and opportunities.
