This literature review by the Canadian Forum on Civil Justice focuses on the cost to individuals and society resulting from the gap in access to civil justice. The researchers reviewed data from 50 countries around the world. The report offers case studies on legal aid funding in Australia, England and Wales, as well as the use of paralegal services in South Africa and social investments in Bangladesh. It also looks at the use of pro bono funding in Ontario as well as studying the return on investment of justice funding in states across the U.S.
The researchers conclude that returns on investment can result from investment in legal aid schemes due to cost savings and financial gains to reducing poverty, evictions, domestic violence and homelessness.