Overview
The complaint concerned a decision made by the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) in relation to the award of civil legal aid, which the complainant (Ms C) claimed unfairly disadvantaged her, showed bias and was a misuse of the public purse.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that Ms C was unfairly disadvantaged by SLAB's decision to grant an extension of civil legal aid to her opponent in legal action, after an extension of civil legal aid was not granted to Ms C (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman has made a general recommendation that SLAB should consider whether the documents it produces are clear enough on how members of the public can seek a review of SLAB decisions and how to give appropriate procedural advice (not legal representation) about this to the public. SLAB should, of course, do this without compromising its obligations under statute.
SLAB have accepted the recommendation.