Falkirk residents are being asked for their views on proposed changes to the legal aid system in Scotland.

The Scottish Government has launched a public consultation with the aim of improving the service for the people who need it, and the professionals who deliver it.

It’s hoped The Legal Aid Reform consultation can help pave the way for a new Legal Aid (Scotland) Bill.

Publicly funded, legal aid helps people who can't afford legal representation to defend their rights.

The proposed reforms include: simplifying processes, cutting duplication, speeding up decisions, improving access to legal aid, and giving accredited solicitors more autonomy.

Minister for Victims and Community Safety Kirsten Oswald said: “At its heart, this is about building a legal aid system that works better for the people who rely on it and the professionals who deliver it. The proposed reforms build on work already underway and align with our wider programme of Public Service Reform.”

To have your say visit The Reforming Legal Aid consultation.