GOAL 5. Work together
Life doesn’t happen in silos. If you have a legal problem, the chances are, you have larger problems in other parts of your life. The justice system has historically operated separately from other social systems — but that’s changing.
Collaboration is increasingly recognized as the best way to put people at the centre of justice. The participation of community members and experts from other sectors like healthcare in developing new models for resolving problems puts the right voices at the table. Working across Canada through collaborative groups like the Action Committee on Access to Justice means that we can share knowledge, resources and innovative ideas to help resolve those life problems.
2022 Progress
In 2022, the third annual A2J week expanded its national momentum, with the simultaneous participation of 7 provincial collaboratives. The Cross-Canada Family Justice Transformation Strategy, an alliance of organizations spanning provinces aimed at transforming the family justice system, also launched in 2022.
5.1 Establish coordinated efforts
Bring all of the organizations involved in access to justice in each province or territory together to focus on local solutions
5.2 Include everyone
Involve the major institutions (courts, governments) professional groups (lawyers’ associations), community groups and non-profits (clinics, PLE providers), academics and individuals to find new creative approaches
5.3 Be bold; Take action
Local and national coordination must lead, take action and inspire others to tackle access to justice
5.4 Work within institutions
In addition to coordinating across the justice system, access to justice should be a serious focus within judges’ organizations, lawyers’ and paralegals’ associations, courts and institutions
5.5 Coordinate across Canada
Keep momentum and sustained attention to these issues across the country to complement local and regional activity