Legal Aid Alberta is launching a three-part webinar series exploring the intersection of mental health and criminal law, sharing practical knowledge, insights, and real-world experience from seasoned LAA staff and roster lawyers.
Starting in January 2026, each session will run from 12 noon until 1:15 p.m. and will be available for on-demand viewing on this page.
Part One, on January 16, features Amna Qureshi, LAA staff lawyer, and Gillian Shiskin, LAA roster lawyer, who will provide practical guidance on distinguishing mental illness from unfitness, conducting interviews with patience and navigating ethical challenges when a client’s account conflicts with reality.
- Wednesday, January 15, 2026
- 12 - 1:15 p.m.
- Register
Topics covered:
- Understanding the line between mentally ill and unfit
- Difference between fitness and NCRMD
- The role of patience in interviewing
- Ethical issues unique to mental health scenarios
Part Two: Understanding ancillary proceedings
- TBD
- 12 - 1:15 p.m.
- Registration coming soon
Topics covered:
- Fitness hearings
- NCRMD
- Mental Health Act reviews
- Designated Offender proceedings
Part Three: Working with (and against) experts
- TBD
- 12 - 1:15 p.m.
- Registration coming soon
Topics covered:
- Qualifications of expert witnesses
- Understanding and challenging risk assessments
- Obtaining helpful reports (FASD assessments, neuropsychic reports, etc)