Rahayu Mahzam on Public Defenders Bill
Justice should not only be the preserve of those who can afford to hire lawyers, said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Law Rahayu Mahzam in Parliament on Monday (Aug 1). She was opening the debate on a Bill that provides for the establishment of a criminal defence aid scheme to be administered by a Public Defender’s Office. It would expand coverage to more recipients and more criminal offences. Ms Rahayu gave details of safeguards to prevent abuse of the scheme and keep costs from escalating. They include a strong governance framework, means and merits tests to ensure that only deserving applicants receive aid, and penalties for abuse.
Justice should not only be the preserve of those who can afford to hire lawyers, said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Law Rahayu Mahzam in Parliament on Monday (Aug 1). She was opening the debate on a Bill that provides for the establishment of a criminal defence aid scheme to be administered by a Public Defender’s Office. It would expand coverage to more recipients and more criminal offences. Ms Rahayu gave details of safeguards to prevent abuse of the scheme and keep costs from escalating. They include a strong governance framework, means and merits tests to ensure that only deserving applicants receive aid, and penalties for abuse.
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