Legal Aid Alberta unveils 2026–2029 Strategic Plan: Continuing our commitment to Albertans
Our next chapter in Alberta’s justice story Every year, hundreds of thousands of Albertans face moments that can alter the course of their lives — family breakdown, criminal charges, immigration challenges. In those moments, access to legal counsel isn’t optional. It’s essential. Legal Aid Alberta (LAA) is proud to share our new 2026-2029 […]
Immigration changes Bill C-12
As of March 26, 2026, Bill C-12 (Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act) received royal assent and is now law. The law changes Canada’s immigration system in four major ways. The federal government will be rolling out these changes in stages. It is starting with the implementation of two new eligibility requirements, retroactive to […]
Update to eligible courts for Tariff Item 11.17
St. Paul’s Healing to Wellness Court has been added to the list of courts included under Tariff Item 11.17 – Indigenous Court Fee. Lawyers can invoice this item for any certificate issued on or after April 1, 2026, that was dealt with in this court. View the Criminal Tariff Invoicing Guide
Register for upcoming events
Navigating refugee claims after Bill C-12 Register now for an in-person workshop at our downtown office this May to learn about the changes introduced in Bill C-12 and connect with peers to discuss how they impact your clients in a supportive setting. Calgary workshop: Thursday, May 7, 2 – 4 p.m. Edmonton workshop: Friday, May 8, 2 – 4 p.m. Spaces are limited and […]
Cybersecurity reminder: Practical email security tips
Email is one of the most common ways cybercriminals attempt to gain access to sensitive business information. Phishing messages can be hard to spot, sometimes arriving from real accounts that have been compromised. For roster lawyers, email‑based threats can pose added risk due to the exposure of: Trusted communications with clients and colleagues Sensitive or confidential client […]
Reminder: Schedule-based duty counsel invoicing
Delays in submitting duty counsel invoices have a significant impact on Legal Aid Alberta’s ability to manage its financial operations and provide accurate, timely financial reporting. Administrative Policy 5 (section 6.15) states that “LAA may attach a condition to a duty counsel certificate that requires a lawyer to submit an account sooner than the deadline set out in this policy.” As of […]
Impact of Race and Culture Assessments (IRCA)
IRCAs are comprehensive pre-sentencing reports prepared for Justices to aid in sentencing decisions for Black and other racialized Canadians. The reports help better understand the effects of poverty, marginalization, systemic racism, social exclusion and life experiences. If an IRCA report would assist the client, counsel must request coverage through an Authorization Request, add Tariff item […]
Black History Month: learning from Black history to build stronger communities
Learning, listening and honouring Black brilliance across generations February is Black History Month in Canada, a time to recognize and celebrate the histories, contributions and lived experiences of Black people and Black communities across the country. The 2026 theme, 30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries, marks three decades of national recognition. It honours the […]
Legal Aid Alberta named one of Alberta’s Top 85 Employers for 2026
Honour recognizes LAA’s commitment to staff well-being and access to justice. Legal Aid Alberta has been named one of Alberta’s Top 85 Employers for 2026. In Canada’s fastest-growing province, where employers are competing for talent in a highly competitive labour market, Alberta’s Top Employers highlights organizations that excel in supporting and engaging their employees. https://youtu.be/YzPRXNwuqgU?si=iHvePTFhrK0GQ0Vt This is the first time that Legal Aid Alberta has earned […]