Being afraid of the legal system is as natural as being scared of the dark.
Communications and Public Relations
Fear of the legal system is normal and common.
The law is hard to understand and going to court can be expensive and overwhelming, not to mention all the legalese along the way.
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Legal Aid Alberta provides services that help ensure eligible Albertans confronting frightening legal situations can understand and defend their legal rights.
1. Going to court for the first time
Legal Aid duty counsel lawyers provide legal advice and assistance in courtrooms across the province to people who attend court without a lawyer.
Duty counsel is an integral part of our justice system and helps the court system proceed as efficiently as possible. Their work focuses on helping unrepresented individuals navigate the court process and ensures that all Albertans understand their rights and can exercise them meaningfully.
Legal Aid Alberta offers early appearance assistance up to two weeks before your first court appearance. The quicker you call after being charged, the more likely we can help.
2. Getting a lawyer
Arranging legal counsel for those who can’t otherwise afford representation is a crucial way in which Legal Aid makes a vital difference to those who are disadvantaged in our criminal justice system. A client also has choice of counsel, which is applicable to adult criminal law and certain family law matters.
We are also part of a referral network with key justice system partner organizations to provide additional support for Albertans.
3. Escaping family violence
Family violence is an unfortunate reality for many Albertans. Legal Aid’s Emergency Protection Order Program helps victims of family violence protect themselves against an abuser. This service provides immediate protection from family violence and is a critical tool to keep Albertans safe.
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