​​EXPLORING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF LAW CLINICS IN ENHANCING ACCESS TO JUSTICE FOR LOW-INCOME INDIVIDUALS IN MALAYSIA​

Abstract

Law clinics are legal service providers that offer free or low-cost legal assistance to lowincome individuals, typically through the participation of law students who are supervised by legal professionals. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of law clinics in providing legal assistance to low-income individuals in Malaysia and improving their access to justice. Using a mixedmethods approach, the study first analyzed data on the utilization of law clinics in Malaysia, including the number of clients served, types of legal issues addressed, and success rates in resolving cases. The study also conducted in-depth interviews with law clinic staff, clients, and legal professionals to gather qualitative data on the challenges and successes of law clinics in assisting low-income individuals. The findings indicate that law clinics have been successful in providing legal assistance to a significant number of low-income individuals in Malaysia, but face challenges in terms of funding and capacity. Despite these challenges, law clinics have been able to make a positive impact on access to justice for low-income individuals through the provision of free legal services and the development of legal literacy among clients. The study concludes that law clinics have the potential to play a vital role in addressing the legal needs of low-income individuals in Malaysia and recommends measures to further enhance their effectiveness.