Civil Law in Indonesia and Russia: Easy and Affordable Access to Legal Aid

Abstract

The world's legal landscape is shaped by two prominent legal systems: the civil law system and the common law system. These distinct systems, with their unique characteristics, have long been a subject of fascination and exploration. Research endeavors into the features of legal systems are driven by the overarching goal of establishing robust legal frameworks to govern societies effectively. The adoption and adaptation of these legal systems within each nation are profoundly influenced by the historical trajectories and developmental milestones of those countries. This study employs normative juridical research methods to compare the legal systems of Indonesia and Russia, focusing on the provision of legal aid for their respective citizens. Both nations, as adherents of the continental European legal system, commonly referred to as civil law systems, have undertaken comprehensive legal reforms to enhance justice within their jurisdictions. These legal reforms encompass modifications to laws, regulations, policies, legal institutions, and judicial procedures. A striking disparity arises when we scrutinize the structure of legal aid legislation in both countries: the variance in the number of chapters delineated in each nation's legal code. Notably, the dissimilarity lies in the allocation of authority responsible for providing legal aid. Indonesia designates the Ministry of Law and Human Rights as the authoritative body overseeing the administration of legal aid, while Russia entrusts this responsibility to the President, who serves as the primary implementing agency for the provision of legal assistance.