THE GOVERNMENT’S decision to change the provision of “vital” free legal advice services for people at risk of losing their home is unlawful, the High Court heard today.

The Law Centres Network (LCN), a national membership and co-ordinating body for law centres, is bringing a legal challenge against the Lord Chancellor — Justice Minister David Gauke — for decisions pressing ahead with reforms it claims are irrational and in breach of the Equality Act.

In written submissions, Jason Coppel QC warned that changes to civil legal aid services through the housing possession court duty schemes (HPCDS) will have a “significant impact” on centres.