Finding Help

A lawyer must be a member in good standing of a law society (Bar) in Canada. Do not hire anyone who is not in good standing. You can search for this information on the website of the law society for the province or territory where you live

Consultants, or individuals who are not lawyers cannot represent you before the Federal Court and cannot give legal advice about your Federal Court case.

In rare situations, you can ask the Federal Court’s permission to allow someone who is not a lawyer (a member of your family, for example) to represent you if the interests of justice require it. To request this, you must file a motion with the Court. See How to file a motion.

What is the difference between legal advice and legal information

Many sources can provide legal information in a general way. Only a lawyer can provide legal advice that applies to your particular situation.

Legal resources are not all the same

There exists several legal resources that may help you get legal representation, understand the process or get support.

Pro bono: Free legal services may be available to individuals of limited means, if they meet the criteria. Pro bono services vary according to province and territory.

Legal aid: This kind of legal help varies according to:

• province and territory
• the legal problem
• the government or organization that funds legal aid

Individuals who cannot afford a lawyer can apply for legal aid. Legal services are provided by a staff lawyer within an organization, or by a private lawyer who accepts legal aid certificates. Individuals may have to pay for some of the legal services, even if they have been approved for legal aid.

Legal clinics: There are around 500 legal clinics across the country with differing levels of services offered. Some have a legal aid program, some provide free or low-cost services to individuals in a certain geographic area, or a certain type of legal problem. Some may only offer support, educational materials or help in finding a lawyer.

Educational information: Several organizations can help individuals understand what it means to go to Court, and point to existing tools and resources that may help. They do not give legal advice or help individuals find a lawyer.

Legal and educational resources

While this section is designed with self represented litigants in mind, the resources provided here may also be helpful to anyone involved in the legal process, including parties represented by counsel and legal professionals seeking additional guidance.The list below is not exhaustive. See disclaimer. *An asterisk indicates services are limited to a geographic area.

National

British Columbia

Alberta

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Ontario

Québec

New Brunswick

Nova Scotia

Prince Edward Island

Newfoundland and Labrador

Yukon

Northwest Territories

Nunavut