Roster Program
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.
Court of Appeal Program
The Court of Appeal Program aims to help low-income litigants appeal civil, criminal, or family law decisions. Program lawyers also help clients respond to appeals brought by opposing parties. Program lawyers provide a variety of limited and extended litigation services.
Family Law Program
Through the Family Law Program, roster lawyers provide assistance and representation to clients in such matters as drafting and arguing applications, conducting trials, mediating disputes, drafting separation agreements, and securing consent orders. Although the range of potential assistance is unlimited, the Family Law Program is specifically designed to enable pro bono assistance in the form of limited or “unbundled” tasks.
Federal Court Of Appeal Program
The Federal Court of Appeal has broad jurisdiction to hear and determine applications for judicial review of federal tribunal decisions and appeals concerning immigration, citizenship, admiralty, customs, intellectual property, tax, labour relations, transportation, communications, parole and penitentiary matters. Through the Federal Court of Appeal Program, roster lawyers provide assistance and representation to clients in such matters as drafting of court documents (e.g. Notice of Appeal, appeal books), researching and preparing factums, and presenting legal arguments at hearings.
Judicial Review Program
The Judicial Review Program assists clients with appeals of decisions made by tribunals constituted under provincial legislation, including; the Residential Tenancy Act, the Employment and Assistance Act, the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Act and the Workers Compensation Act. Roster lawyers provide assistance and representation to clients in such matters as drafting of court documents (e.g. petition, affidavits), researching and preparing written submissions, preparing chambers records and presenting legal arguments in court.
Mediators’ Program
We are currently developing our Mediators’ Program. Pro bono mediation services are now available through Mediate BC, the Vancouver Justice Access Centre, and the UBC Law School CoRe Program.
Wills & Estates Program
The Wills & Estates Program is designed to facilitate the provision of pro bono legal services in non-litigious estate matters, such as drafting wills, powers of attorney, committee agreements, and representation agreements.
