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 noon until 1:15 p.m. and will be available for on-demand viewing on this page.
Part two, taking place on Feb. 11, features LAA roster lawyers Sarah Rankin and Alexandra Seaman as they walk through the various ancillary proceedings that arise in this area, including fitness hearings, Not Criminally Responsible Due to Mental Disorder (NCRMD) matters and Designated Offender proceedings.
- Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
- Noon - 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
- Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026
- Noon - 1:15 p.m.
- Register
Topics covered:
- Fitness hearings
- NCRMD
- Mental Health Act reviews
- Designated Offender proceedings
Part Three: Working with (and against) experts
- TBD
- Noon - 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)