Totally agree with the previous poster regarding litigation. the legal profession is the only profession where it actually pays you to 'get it wrong' the first, second - or even the third time. each appeal racks up costs and adds to the anguish/false hope of those involved. i was once privileged (?) to stand in the corridor of the high court when one (losing) barrister put his arm round his opponent's shoulder and uttered the persuasive argument 'now come on barry, it is christmas'.
perhaps the legal aid fund should be limited to the costs of the first tribunal or trial: an appeal is entirely at your own risk. it should concentrate minds wonderfully!