At the plenary session of the Majilis of the Parliament, examined the draft laws on advocacy and legal assistance

On June 5 of the current year at the plenary session of the Majilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in the second reading,examined the  draft laws «On advocacy and legal assistance» and «On introducing amendments and additions to some legislative acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan on matters of advocacy and legal assistance».

The draft laws are aimed at strengthening the protection of rights,freedoms and legitimate interests of citizens in the exercise of their constitutional right to receive qualified legal assistance,as well as improving the mechanisms for its provision.

In particular, the institute of integrated social services is being introduced,providing for the provision of free legal assistance with its full support to socially vulnerable layers of the population.

There is a ban on entrance fees,allowing access to the profession of a lawyer,increasing competition and increasing their number.

The mechanism of obligatory annual improvement of qualification of persons is introduced,providing legal assistance,which will increase the competitiveness and quality of the services.

There are restrictions on the duration of the term of office of the chairman of the bar association and notarial chamber, which will improve the management of attorney's and notarial community.

Legislation also regulates the legal status,rights and duties of private lawyers.Self-regulating organizations will be created in the form of chambers of legal advisers with compulsory membership of at least 50 individuals,providing legal assistance in court,which in turn increases the competitiveness and quality of legal assistance.

In addition,offered the introduction of an information system «Legal assistance» which allows to automate and optimize the activities of lawyers and consultants.

It should be noted,that the bill contains a number of other proposals,the main purpose of which is to ensure transparency, justice and improving the quality of legal aid.