People need more information about the law so they know how to get help when faced with the increasing legal complexity of modern life, according to research by a government task force.

The researchers found that one million legal problems involving ordinary people go unresolved every year. One third of the population try to deal with these cases but many people take no action at all. It was also found that the emergence of legal problems could lead to difficulties in other areas of life.

For example, one sixth of people suddenly faced with a legal problem then went on to suffer ill-health or lose their jobs.

The research was carried out by the Public Legal Education and Support (PLEAS) Task Force which is part of the Ministry of Justice. Ministry economists estimated that over a three to four year period, unresolved legal problems cost individuals and the taxpayer £13billion.

The Task Force report, Developing Capable Citizens: the role of Public Legal Education, says that the public need to be sufficiently knowledgeable and confident to deal with problems and make the most of the protection offered by the law. It is now trying to increase the level of public legal education.

When faced with legal problems it is essential to get professional legal advice as soon as possible. If the right steps are taken at the outset they can prevent more serious difficulties emerging later on.

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