The role of youth duty counsel in the justice system
The Youth Criminal Justice Act ensures that young people are treated fairly – and differently than adults – if they come into conflict with the law and face criminal charges. Legal Aid Alberta staff lawyer Nancy Cush, who has more than 25 years of experience in this area of law, appeared on the Global […]
Reuniting families in child welfare cases
Regardless of a family’s background, there can be times when circumstances in a home put a child’s well-being at risk. In those instances, the child can be removed from the home until the parents are better able to care for the child. That’s where Legal Aid Alberta lawyers like Doug McLachlan come in. McLachlan appeared […]
Legal Aid Alberta serves Albertans 24/7
Demand for Legal Aid Alberta never rests. Just as police work around the clock, Legal Aid Alberta lawyers are also on the job 24 hours a day to protect Albertan’ rights and ensure the Rule of Law is followed. Legal Aid Alberta Staff Lawyer Jana Skarsen appeared on Global News Morning Edmonton to discuss […]
Ask a Lawyer: Mental health and the justice system
Mental Health Week is May 5 – 11, raising awareness of the fact that many people – regardless of demographics – struggle with different forms of mental health issues throughout their lives. Legal Aid Alberta staff and roster lawyers practicing all areas of law come into contact with individuals affected by mental health issues. […]
Legal help at your fingertips: Four easy resources to guide you through legal aid
Dealing with a legal issue is stressful. We understand that — especially when life is already overwhelming due to things like family violence, addiction, or mental health struggles. That’s why we’re committed to making things easier. Every year, Legal Aid Alberta supports hundreds of thousands of Albertans navigating the justice system. To better serve individuals […]
Legal Aid Alberta helps immigration and refugee applicants
Moving to a new country is an enormous undertaking, and one that thousands of people choose when coming to Canada each year. Some have been planning their move carefully; others are fleeing repressive regimes where the rule of law is not in effect. All are seeking a better life and a new beginning in Canada. […]
Ask a Lawyer: Protecting Albertans’ rights at police stations, 24-7
Imagine this scenario: After a night out, someone accepts a ride home from an acquaintance. Along the way, police pull the car over – and it turns out the vehicle was stolen. Everyone in the car is taken into custody and potentially faces serious criminal charges. Who do you call for help? Legal […]
Gift-wrapped for you: The 12 Months of Ask a Lawyer
For Legal Aid Alberta staff lawyers, the season of giving lasts all year. In addition to protecting Albertans’ legal rights 24/7, our staff lawyers share their knowledge and insights on legal issues as guests on Global Edmonton’s morning news program once a month. Our lawyers bring their expertise and experience to a vast audience, providing […]
Ask a Lawyer: Using Emergency Protection Orders to help families facing domestic violence
Across Canada, Alberta is ranked third in self-reported spousal violence. It is important to raise awareness of the issues surrounding domestic violence, ways to prevent it and the legal tools available to stop it. November is Family Violence Prevention Month – aimed at educating people on the warning signs of family violence and the resources […]
Ask a Lawyer: LAA brings Duty Counsel Day to the classroom
Every day, thousands of people appear in courts across the country for the first time, with little understanding of legal procedures, what’s going to happen, or even that they have a Charter right to legal representation. Fortunately, duty counsel lawyers are on the front line of the justice system to protect our Charter right […]