Access to justice is a basic principle of the rule of law. It typically means a person’s right to have their case heard in a court of law. This requires a hearing that is procedurally fair. The right to a fair hearing includes the right to equality of arms (the same rights for all parties to the litigation), the right to a ruling that includes the reasoning behind the decision, and the right to secure the execution of a final judgment. Access to justice also encompasses access to legal aid for those who lack sufficient resources.