PROVIDING FREE LEGAL AID TO THE PUBLIC: ISSUES AND PROSPECTS

The article focuses on the development and utilization of a comprehensive online platform aimed at enhancing the accessibility and quality of legal assistance for citizens. It examines the functions of existing digital platforms in the legal assistance sector that facilitate free access to qualified legal support. Given the rapid advancement of digital technologies in Kazakhstan and the full digitalization of government services, there is a significant need for an innovative digital platform to provide legal assistance to citizens. This online platform will ensure that every citizen has access to professional legal help, thereby enabling them to exercise their constitutional right to receive qualified legal assistance. The platform will be integrated with educational institutions and government portals, providing free access to legal services. At the same time, it is important to consider issues of personal data protection and cybersecurity, as the increase in the use of digital technologies raises the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks, which millions of people around the world face daily. Therefore, developing clear regulatory frameworks and fostering cooperation between countries can accelerate the process of adapting and implementing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and process automation. This article is part of a project-based research initiative aimed at developing and integrating an online platform that combines both educational services and an automated legal assistance system. The objective is to enhance access to qualified legal support and promote legal literacy in Kazakhstan. The article also explores international experiences with digital online platforms and discusses their adaptation to the specific context of Kazakhstan. Furthermore, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential transformative impact of digitalization on legal frameworks in Kazakhstan, while examining the challenges and opportunities associated with delivering legal aid through this new format.