Research publications

Our research unit collects views and experiences from people about legal aid and the work of the organisation.

We carry out research with people who apply or might apply for legal assistance and with professionals who are involved or have an interest in the provision of legal aid.

We also review existing evidence on legal aid and justice issues in Scotland and in other countries.

Annual research programme: Set each year this outlines our intended work. Details of larger projects are given in the website’s news section as they happen.

Research methods: These vary, ranging from a few days reviewing literature to face to face interviewing and large scale surveys. We also commission research where necessary.

Publications: The outputs from our work can also vary greatly. They include traditional reports and papers or they may be simply a recommendation or table of figures.

For more information on our research or to discuss any of our current or planned projects please contact us.

Legal aid and stakeholder research 2026

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A literature review on mental health law clients 901 KB | 20 April 2026 PDF 901 KB

Experiences with children's legal assistance research

We commissioned Progressive Partnership to undertake research to find out more about the experience of adults who have used legal assistance to have a solicitor with them at a Children’s Panel Hearing, as well as insights from solicitors who carry out the work, with the detailed reports available below.

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Legal aid and stakeholder research 2025

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Previous legal aid and stakeholder research

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