The Attorney General’s Chambers has released a draft bill titled The Legal Aid and Pro Bono Legal Services Bill 2012 for public consultation.

One of the provisions is a requirement for all private attorneys to provide at least 25 hours of pro bono services a year or pay an annual fee if they want to opt out.

The proposed bill comes as the island faces cuts to its legal aid budget and a steady increase in crime coupled with a rise in attorney fees.

Government officials asked islanders this week for their opinion and are accepting public comments through July.

Attorneys who decide to take on pro bono cases and do not follow through would face disciplinary measures.

Those who opt out would be required to pay nearly $3,000 a year.

The draft bill can be viewed on www.gov.ky in the Features section or on http://www.gov.ky/pls/portal/url/page/cighome/find/organisations/azagencies/plg/documents .

Comments are to be forwarded to Director of the Law Reform Commission, Ms Cheryl Neblett at: [email protected].

All submissions should be received not later than 5 pm on 13 July 2012.