Access Pro Bono Programs
We offer several programs serving the critical legal needs of BC's individuals and non-profit organizations of limited means, ranging from summary legal advice clinics to full legal representation services.
APB operates an extensive network of summary legal advice clinics throughout the province. Clients can make appointments through our Vancouver office and, in some instances, directly through the local clinic. Our volunteer lawyers provide up to a half-hour of free legal advice to clients, and additional appointments may be available.
Weight:
-3
The Civil Chambers Duty Counsel Program provides legal assistance and representation services to low- and modest-income individuals engaged in civil (non-family) chambers litigation matters before the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal in Vancouver.
Weight:
-2
The Roster Program provides pro bono representation services for particular case types to qualifying individuals and non-profit organizations. Client applications are screened by APB staff and volunteer coordinators, and then sent to a number of lawyers for their consideration. If a lawyer responds to the particular case, they choose the scope of their services. Insurance and disbursement coverage is made available to roster lawyers.
Weight:
-1
The Solicitors’ Program is designed to facilitate the provision of pro bono legal services to charitable and non-profit community organizations of limited means.
Weight:
0
This program is currently available only in the Nanaimo Provincial Court but may extend to other locations and levels of court in the future. This initiative, dealing with high conflict custody and access cases, provides a “voice to children” ages 10 through 18, in court hearings.
Weight:
1
APB has partnered with the Vancouver Justice Access Centre and the Law Courts Centre to provide support for self-represented litigants who need assistance in preparing court documents. The Program is staffed by senior paralegals from several Vancouver law firms, and legal supervision is provided by APB volunteer lawyers. The Program operates as a weekly evening clinic at the Vancouver Justice Access Centre at the downtown Vancouver courthouse.
Weight:
2
