“The right to a lawyer includes the right to understand and be understood,” says Marcus Threndyle, youth criminal duty counsel lawyer.
On a Friday morning in Calgary’s youth criminal court, the hallway is packed. A father anxiously waits for news about his son, who’s in custody. A nervous teenage girl arrives with an adult companion. Some kids have lawyers. Many don’t.
That’s where Legal Aid Alberta duty counsel lawyer Marcus Threndyle steps in.
“Hi, my name is Marcus, I’m duty counsel,” he says to one youth, before pivoting to help a mother whose son will soon appear in court by video.
The docket is full. The pace is relentless. Yet Threndyle listens patiently, guiding each person through the initial stages of the legal process.
As duty counsel, Threndyle represents young people who arrive without legal representation. He prepares for court the night before, but every morning brings surprises. New arrests, language barriers, urgent legal questions.
On this day, it’s particularly hectic. Three new youths were picked up by police overnight, one needing a translator. Threndyle arranges it all.
“I’ll talk to your son and the prosecutor,” he tells one parent. “Then I’ll come back and see you.”
Legal Aid Alberta lawyers like Threndyle are essential to the justice system, especially for vulnerable youth, making sure their rights are protected and they are heard in court, regardless of their situation and means.
“We can help”
Just outside the courtroom, a sign on the wall reads: Legal Aid Alberta Youth Criminal Duty Counsel—We can help. It’s more than a piece of paper—it’s a starting point. For many young people and their families, this is their first encounter with the justice system.
“He’s busy. He’s so kind,” one person says outside court. It’s a common sentiment.
Inside the courtroom, Threndyle speaks on behalf of kids with no lawyer. In one case, the charge is withdrawn. In another, a youth pleads guilty with Marcus by their side. He helps them understand the process, the consequences and the path forward.
From preparing files to appearing in court, Threndyle’s daily work at the Calgary Courts Centre is absolutely vital.
“The criminal justice system is intimidating and confusing,” Threndyle says. “At Legal Aid Alberta we help by offering compassion and direction.”
“The right to a lawyer includes the right to understand and be understood.”