FIN MoJ proposed new legal services agency law was approved by Finnish parliament, so the new agency will start operating in 2025 to provide legal aid and other services.
Basis for Legal Services Agency
The new agency proposals were made into law under LaVM 4/2023 vp, and also affected related acts HE 30/2023 vp, and EV 33/2023, all effective at the same time.
The tasks of current six legal aid and guardianship districts and central administration tasks of the districts handled by FIN MoJ will be transferred to the new agency.
Reform will not mean that tasks of agencies serving clients will change, but legal aid, guardianship, financial, and debt counselling services will continue as present.
The proposal's objective aims to develop central government so that ministries focus on legislative drafting and strategic management of their administrative branch.
At the same time, tasks that do not require consideration and decision-making at ministerial level will be transferred from the ministry to subordinate administration.
Effectiveness
Law scheduled for approval by President on Dec. 15, 2023; in force on Jan. 1, 2025.
