The Law Society's Final Report on the 21st Century Justice Project: Implications for Clients

On June 23, 2025, the Law Society published its final report on the 21st Century Justice project, marking a significant step forward in the reform of civil justice in England and Wales. The report aims to address the "justice gap" by proposing comprehensive reforms designed to enhance access to justice for individuals who may otherwise find it difficult to navigate the legal system . This article explores the key recommendations of the report and their potential implications for clients seeking legal assistance.

Protecting Legal Consumers from AI

The report underscores the importance of safeguarding legal consumers from the potential risks associated with AI in the legal sector. It calls for the government to prioritise technology-enabled justice while ensuring robust regulation to protect individuals. This includes assessing the supply and value chain of AI legal tools to ensure compliance at all stages. For clients, this means a more secure and reliable interaction with AI-driven legal services, supported by collaboration between solicitors, individuals, and technology companies. 

Expanding Ombudsman Schemes

To further aid access to justice, the report recommends expanding ombudsman schemes. This includes reforms to enable ombudsman services to conduct their own investigations and strengthen their connection with courts and tribunals. For clients, these changes could mean more comprehensive and accessible avenues for redress, particularly in cases where traditional legal routes may be less feasible.

Legal Expenses Insurance

The report highlights a significant underutilisation of legal expenses insurance, with only a small fraction of the 14 million policyholders ever making a claim. It advises solicitors to routinely inquire about existing policies with their clients and to raise awareness about the potential to use these policies to cover legal costs. For clients, this could translate into more affordable access to legal services, as well as increased awareness and understanding of insurance products available to them.

Civil Legal Aid

Finally, the report addresses the need for reforms in civil legal aid, advocating for increased trust between legal aid commissioners and practitioners, regular fee adjustments in line with inflation, and simplification of legal aid processes and contracts. These recommendations aim to make legal aid more accessible and efficient, ultimately benefiting clients who rely on such support to pursue their legal rights.

Conclusion

The Law Society's final report on the 21st Century Justice project presents a comprehensive blueprint for reforming civil justice in England and Wales. By focusing on enhancing access to justice through technological innovation, regulatory safeguards, and expanded support mechanisms, the report holds significant promise for clients seeking legal assistance. As these recommendations are implemented, clients can expect a more streamlined, accessible, and supportive legal environment.

If you are looking for support with your family law matter, please get in contact today. 

Jamie Beland