Quality standards for designated sexual offence matters

LAA is instituting quality standards for this complex and sensitive area of law.

Legal Aid Alberta (LAA) is introducing new Designated Sexual Offence Standards, effective Jan. 1, 2026. These standards will establish clear eligibility and training requirements for roster lawyers representing clients in sexual offence matters.

Why these changes are being made

Sexual offence cases are among the most complex and sensitive areas of criminal law. They require strong, experienced legal and evidentiary skills.

To ensure that clients receive the highest quality representation, LAA is introducing minimum experience and training standards for lawyers who handle these matters. This change supports LAA’s commitment — outlined in The Path Forward: Strategic Plan 2023–2026 — to maintaining a roster of qualified, effective and accountable counsel.

What this means for you

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, only roster lawyers who meet the new standards will be eligible to receive offers on sexual offence matters.

Between Dec. 1 – 19, 2025, all criminal roster lawyers who want to continue working on these matters must review the Designated Sexual Offence Standards and complete an acknowledgment confirming they have read the document and meet the criteria. (This attestation form will be available in early December. You will receive an email notification and a link to the form once it is online.)

Next steps

Review the Designated Sexual Offence Standards document in full.
Complete the required readings in the Designated Sexual Offence Standards document by Dec. 19, 2025.
Acknowledge that you have completed the previous steps and meet the standards by submitting an attestation form. (This attestation form will be available in early December. You will receive email notification and a link to the form once it is online.)
Ensure compliance before Jan. 1, 2026, to remain eligible to receive offers on sexual offence matters.

If you have questions, please contact Roster Relations: [email protected].

FAQs

Why is Legal Aid Alberta introducing new standards for designated sexual offence certificates?

These standards ensure that lawyers representing clients in sexual offence matters possess the necessary experience and training. Such cases often involve complex evidentiary issues and sensitive client dynamics. The standards reflect LAA’s commitment to quality, competence and accountability under The Path Forward: Strategic Plan 2023–2026.

When do the new standards take effect?

The standards take effect on Jan. 1, 2026. If you meet the criteria to continue to receive offers for sexual offences, you must confirm you have completed all compliance elements and submit acknowledgment by Dec. 19, 2025. An attestation form will be available in early December. You will receive email notification and a link to the form once it is online.

Who do these standards apply to?

They will apply to all LAA roster lawyers as of Jan. 1, 2026, who want to continue receiving offers for designated sexual offences, as defined under the Criminal Code sections listed online.

Are there continuing education requirements?

Yes. Lawyers must complete a minimum of four hours Continuing Professional Development (CPD) specific to sexual offence defence work on an annual basis. Legal Aid Alberta will be hosting an educational webinar on this topic in early 2026. Attendance would satisfy the CPD requirement. LAA will also post reference links to learning opportunities on this subject for individuals to choose as an option to fulfill this requirement. Any costs associated with learning opportunities outside of LAA webinars will be the responsibility of the individual lawyer.

What documentation must I submit?

You must submit an online attestation form confirming you meet the updated standards and completion of the required elements. This form will be available in early December. You will receive email notification and link to the form once it is online.

I have an active sexual offence certificate through LAA, but I do not meet the new criteria. Can I still complete these cases?

You may continue working on existing sexual offence certificates issued before Jan. 1, 2026. However, to receive new offers after that date, you must meet the updated standards and complete the acknowledgment process.

What is the mandatory reading list?

The reading list includes essential case law and statutes covering consent, admissibility, stereotypes and sentencing. It ensures consistent knowledge across the roster. It is available online here.

What happens if I don’t meet the criteria or fail to acknowledge by Dec. 19, 2025?

You will remain on the roster for other criminal matters but will not receive new offers for sexual offence matters after Jan. 1, 2026. You can reapply once the criteria are met.

How do I apply for authorization?

Ensure you meet the requirements, complete all mandatory readings and then submit the attestation form (this form will be online in early December, and you will receive an email notification once available). Once reviewed, your roster profile will be updated to reflect that you are able to receive offers for sexual offence matters. The attestation form will be available in early December. You will receive email notification and link to the form once it is online.

What if I am the client’s choice of counsel for a sexual offence but I am not approved to receive designated sexual offence offers?

Client Choice of Counsel will be reviewed and considered on a case-by-case basis.

Who do I conact for clarification or support?

Contact [email protected]

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