3 ways newcomers can navigate the legal system for free

From News Canada

Do you think you are being unfairly treated by your employer? Are you going through a divorce or a child custody matter? Or maybe you are having difficulties with your landlord?

Many people experience these types of issues, but not everyone is aware of their legal options.

Many newcomers come from countries where legal issues mean huge costs and a lengthy, troublesome process at the courts.

For them, the prospect of going to court is so unpleasant that they simply choose to ignore certain problems rather than be dragged through the legal system.

Did you know that a 2009 Department of Justice report found that over 85 per cent of people surveyed did not seek help when facing a legal problem? Don’t let this happen to you.

The Law Society of Upper Canada offers three free resources on its website at www.lsuc.on.ca, to help you explore your legal options.

Here's an outline of the services available:

1. The Law Society Referral Service. Use this online service available at www.findlegalhelp.ca to obtain a free, up to 30-minute consultation with a lawyer or paralegal. You can ask for a referral to a lawyer or paralegal who speaks your language, or a lawyer who accepts legal aid certificates. For people unable to access the online service, such as those in a shelter or residing in a remote community without internet access, a crisis line is available during regular business hours at 1-855-947-5255 or 416-947-5255.

2. Lawyer and Paralegal Directory. This online directory of licensed legal professionals enables you to search for a lawyer or paralegal by name, location or legal practice area. If you already have a particular individual in mind, you can check the directory to ensure that person is licensed.

3. The Handling Everyday Legal Problems Guide. This user-friendly quick reference guide provides brief descriptions and contact information for free legal information sources – and it outlines free and low-cost legal service providers.

Help is only a click or phone call away. Use these free resources to explore your options. They are all available at www.lsuc.on.ca