GOAL 1. Address everyday legal problems
Have you ever had to read your own employment contract? Have you been named the executor of someone’s will? Have you been sent a letter from a lawyer because of a disagreement over a contract or bill? Many everyday life problems are in fact everyday legal problems.
Justice sector organizations are working to build people’s ability to identify and avoid legal problems, understand their options, and give them the tools to take the first step.
2023 progress
In 2023, A2J organizations expanded people-centred justice initiatives through projects focusing on the needs of linguistic minorities, sexual and gender-based violence survivors, people who use drugs, seniors, Indigenous and racialized communities, newcomers, youth, and tenants. Organizations supported individuals through public legal education materials, helplines, live chats, and updated websites.
1.1 Educate early
Provide targeted, free, accessible public legal education about frequent legal issues, different types of solutions and the process of enforcing rights
1.2 Prevent
Foster legal capability so that people can spot legal issues early, get preventative or proactive help and anticipate, avoid or manage frequent legal issues
1.3 Offer a continuum of services
Develop and expand legal services to include the full continuum of information, advice, help lines, online services, in-person services, and partial or full representation
1.4 Reflect Canadian society
Put the services people need in the communities where they live with the resources to address the barriers they face