4.4.3

Description: 
We will seek to improve access to justice in the NWT, by expanding community legal outreach programs, making family law duty counsel services available to assist self-represented family members on first appearance in family court, and expanding public education on programs and services so that people know what help is out there and how to access it.
Lead Dept: 
DOJ
Priority: 
4.4
Status: 
Fulfilled
Restructured COC: 
Social Envelope
Number: 
3
Deputy Minister Committee: 
Social Envelope
Background Information: 

COMMUNITY WELLNESS AND SAFETY

Commitment 4.4.3 – We will seek to improve access to justice in the NWT, by expanding community legal outreach programs, making family law duty counsel services available to assist self-represented family members on first appearance in family court, and expanding public education on programs and services so that people know what help is out there and how to access it.

In March 2017, the Legal Aid Commission formally expanded the Outreach program, including enhanced operating hours for the “walk-in” clinic, increased community visits for the Outreach lawyer, and the addition of family law duty counsel services. Family law duty counsel services offer “same appearance” support to individuals appearing in Supreme Court Family Law Chambers, without any need to apply and qualify for legal aid.

The Outreach Legal Aid Clinic operates from separate offices in Yellowknife. In addition to the baseline services provided in Yellowknife, there is a regular schedule of community visits and community based activities. This schedule is developed three to six months in advance and takes into account community needs and available resources.

Legal Aid Outreach services are offered in person in most communities, often in partnership with community organizations and Indigenous governments. Individuals who need assistance can contact the Community Legal Aid Clinic by email or telephone, or by stopping by in person when in Yellowknife. There is an afternoon drop-in clinic at the Community Legal Aid Clinic every Tuesday. Court workers will also refer cases to the clinic.

The Department of Justice is also taking additional measures to provide ongoing access to legal resources. With the planned closure of the M.M. de Weerdt Law Library, a Resource Centre in the Courthouse - available to both the Bar and the public - will be established. The Resource Centre will have a select collection of hardcopy materials, a terminal for free online access, and scheduled periods where staff support will be provided to assist members of the public to navigate the hardcopy and online resources. The Department is also making more public legal education materials available on its website. This work continues, in collaboration between the Legal Aid Commission and the Department of Justice.

Steps undertaken to improve access to justice in the NWT include implementing the expanded Legal Aid Outreach services (Milestone 1) and opening an Outreach Legal Aid Clinic in Yellowknife (Milestone 2).

Related Mandate Commitments:

  • Commitment 4.32: We will explore options for expanding beyond Yellowknife, the Mediation and Parenting After Separation and Divorce Program.