3. Find out if you belong to a vulnerable group
Question & Answer
How do I apply for a legal aid certificate?You may get a because you're a member of a vulnerable group. This includes some people who are:
- experiencing
- identify as First Nation, Inuit, or Métis
- dealing with mental health issues
- dealing with addiction issues
Family violence
If you've experienced domestic abuse and need legal help right away, you can get a lawyer through the Family Violence Authorization Program. This program gives you 2 hours of free legal help. It is offered through some women's shelters, community legal clinics, and Family Law Service Centres. You can call LAO toll-free at 1-800-668-8258 to find out more.
You may also need legal help if you've been charged with while trying to defend yourself from your abusive partner.
Indigenous people
If you identify as First Nation, Inuit, or Métis, tell your lawyer or duty counsel right away. You may have more rights in some areas of law. Also, your circumstances may affect how your legal issues are handled. But you must still meet LAO's financial eligibility requirements.
Mental health and addiction issues
You may get a legal aid certificate to help you with your mental health or .
If you've been admitted to a mental health facility or are getting treatment at a facility, talk to a patient advocate or rights advisor. They will give you information about getting legal help.
If you're in a correctional facility, ask to talk to someone from LAO about applying for a legal aid certificate.
