ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO. 285356
DUE DATE: 31 MARCH 2026
, Paralegal Advice Centre - PAC2602
QUESTION 1
1.1 What test does Legal Aid South Africa apply to assess whether a person
qualifies for legal assistance, and what criteria are evaluated in this test? (4)
Legal Aid South Africa applies the means test to determine whether a person qualifies
for legal assistance.
The means test evaluates the following criteria:
1. Income – the applicant’s monthly earnings.
2. Assets – such as property, savings, or investments.
3. Number of dependants – people financially supported by the applicant.
4. Merits of the case – whether the matter has reasonable prospects of success.
1.2 Given the digital divide between rural households and urban areas, how can
paralegals promote digital inclusion within the communities they serve? (4)
Paralegals can promote digital inclusion by:
1. Providing digital literacy training, such as teaching community members how
to use smartphones, computers, and the internet.
2. Assisting with access to online services, including applications for grants,
UIF, or legal documents.
3. Partnering with NGOs, schools, or libraries to improve access to computers
and internet facilities.
4. Advocating for affordable connectivity, by engaging local authorities and
service providers to improve digital infrastructure.