Paralegal Support Network

PASUNE looks into policies but also push for formation of new laws in the case that there are vacuums. When formed Paralegals were not accepted and they faced quiet some challenges in the course of their work. That kept PASUNE on its toes to come up with ways of ensuring Paralegals were accepted and could practice without fear or intimidation. In doing so PASUNE pushed for a law that would recognize Paralegals and that how the Legal Aid Act came to being. PASUNE also pushed for Small Claims Courts Act which gives opportunities to Paralegals. Also pending is the Courts of Petty Sessions. If the latter is enacted, the two laws will give paralegals some space to put their skills into use by handling cases within the community. This will divert petty cases from the formal justice system hence de-congesting the courts, prisons and police station cells. Paralegals also sit in special committees like court users committees to lobby for policy change when need be.

PASUNE also contributed to the newly enacted laws The Legal Aid Code of Conduct for Accredited Legal Aid Providers, 2019 which was gazetted on 8th July 2020 and The Legal Aid (General) Regulations, 2020 which was gazetted on 14th July 2020.