Controversial changes to criminal legal aid have been passed, despite opposition from some at Holyrood and lawyers.
MSPs backed legislation that will mean people with a disposable income of £82 a week will have to make a contribution towards the cost of their defence.
Defence solicitors have previously gone on strike over the changes, which will also see them collect the money instead of the Scottish Legal Aid Board.
About 40 solicitors gathered outside Holyrood to protest against the legislation.
But Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill insisted the changes - which were passed by 62 votes to 53 - would help "maintain a fair, consistent and generous legal aid scheme".
He stated the Bill would "deliver vital savings to ensure legal aid can be targeted at those who need it most".
The cost of providing legal aid amounted to £157.3 million last year, the second highest total on record, but the Scottish Government hopes the Scottish Civil Justice Council and Criminal Legal Assistance Bill will cut that by almost £4 million.
Mr MacAskill said: "Contributions to criminal legal aid will allow us to continue to target legal aid at those who need it most by asking those who can afford it to pay towards the cost of their defence."
He continued: "To be clear, no one is being asked to pay for the full cost of their defence. If they can do that, they would not be eligible for legal assistance.
"We are suggesting that where someone can afford to contribute towards the costs, they should be asked to do so."
