New independent study shows rising public trust, awareness and positive impact on the lives of Albertans.
More Albertans than ever understand and value the positive impact that Legal Aid Alberta (LAA) has on the lives of citizens in the province.
A province-wide poll by the independent research firm Leger found that perceptions of LAA’s positive impact increased by 78 per cent over the past five years — the highest ever recorded.
The annual survey also found that 73 per cent of the 1,000 adults polled agreed that the organization provides an important service to Albertans and, increasingly, view LAA as “essential” to Alberta. The number of respondents who consider LAA as providing an essential service rose by 25 per cent since 2024.
Legal Aid Alberta has positive impact on Albertans
The study also showed that Albertans associate LAA with fairness, compassion and support for disadvantaged people and communities.
Although these findings reflect growing awareness and recognition of LAA’s work and impact, they also reveal an opportunity to share more. While 41 per cent said that LAA has a strong impact on the lives of Albertans, about one-third also said they don’t know enough to rate impact — a reminder that awareness is only the beginning.
“Building trust starts with understanding,” said Panusa. “The more people learn about what Legal Aid Alberta does — and who we serve — the more they appreciate our role in making justice accessible to everyone. A healthy democracy depends on a justice system that is accessible, fair and worthy of public trust, where the rule of law applies equally to all.”
The annual reputation study was conducted in December 2025.
Discover more about LAA’s impact
Learn more about how Legal Aid Alberta continues to strengthen access to justice for all Albertans by checking out our annual report.