Legal Aid Alberta (LAA) is pleased to announce Access to Justice Week taking place April 14 -17. The week-long celebration is the continuation of last year’s successful Lawyer Appreciation Day which was established to recognize Alberta lawyers who, by accepting legal aid cases, have helped to make the legal system more accessible to Albertans in need.

Lawyers who participate in legal aid share in a common belief in the importance of quality representation and advice at all levels to those who could otherwise not afford it. They have chosen to commit themselves to legal aid work despite the current lack of financial reward, because they want to provide a good quality public service within the justice system. “The dedication and expertise of our roster lawyers makes it possible for Albertans in need to receive the legal services they need to successfully manage their legal issues” says Jacqueline Schaffter, LAA President and CEO.

2009 Award Recipients

Raj Sharma- Calgary
Mona T. Duckett, QC- Edmonton
Graham M. Johnson- Fort McMurray
Angela L. Howey- Grande Prairie
Claudia R. Connolly- Lethbridge
Harry F. Wahl- Medicine Hat
Kevin G. Schollie- Red Deer
Kathleen D. Williams- St. Paul
Miles A.M. Cymbaluk- Wetaskiwin
Marvin J.H. Braun- Whitecourt
Andrea Doyle (staff lawyer)- Family Law Office Edmonton

Private Bar and firm participation in the legal aid system is fundamental to being able to provide access to justice to those who cannot afford it. Access to Justice Week is province-wide with events being hosted in each of LAA’s eleven regions. LAA Access to Justice Awards will be presented to one private bar lawyer per region while a separate award, being presented at the Edmonton event, will be given to recognize the efforts of one LAA staff lawyer.