1. Get the Notice of Intent to Intervene
Question and answer
The Minister is involved in my refugee hearing. What should I do?If the Minister decides to get involved in your refugee hearing, they must send you and the (IRB) a Notice of Intent to Intervene.
The Notice is usually sent by mail.
The Notice explains why the Minster got involved. The Notice will also say if the Minster's Counsel will:
- attend your hearing,
- send written arguments and only, or
- both attend your hearing and send written arguments and evidence
Ask for more time
You must receive the Notice at least 10 days before your hearing.
If you get the Notice less than 10 days before your hearing, you can ask the (RPD) for more time to prepare and respond.
Even if you get the Minister's Notice 10 days before your hearing, you can still ask for more time if the issues are complicated. A lawyer or licensed representative can help you make this request.
Get legal help
If the Minister is involved in your refugee hearing, get legal help as soon as possible. Get help from a lawyer or licensed representative who understands refugee law.
These cases can be more complicated. If the IRB refuses your refugee claim, you may have to leave Canada.