Summary Advice Program

Volunteer lawyers offers free legal advice to low-and modest-income BC residents by telephone or videoconference; up to a half-hour is available at each appointment, with the possibility of more appointments as needed. Addresses a full range of legal issues including family, immigration, criminal, mental health, and civil law (such as debt, employment, welfare, and housing matters). Also offers free half-hour legal advice appointments to individuals detained under the Mental Health Act or their family members; advise can include what it means to be certified under the Mental Health Act, how to apply for a review, legal test and procedures atreview panel hearings, and how to prepare for a hearing. The Summary Advice Program cannot assist with emergency issues and does not provide services such as representation, notarization, and drafting. To book an appointment, email or contact the client line from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday or fill out the online triage form (https://www.accessprobono.ca/form/triage-form); appointments are booked two to four weeks in advance when available.