What we do Legal Representation for Children and Youth
Our Legal Representation for Children and Youth (LRCY) program provides lawyers for young people in child intervention court matters. This helps young people have a voice in court matters that affect them and helps ensure their legal interests are considered by the court.
- Meets with the young person to explain the court process, represent them and help them have their voice heard in court, and explain court decisions and what they mean.
- Whenever possible, the lawyer takes direction from the young person. When they are not able to provide direction, the lawyer explores the young person’s legal entitlements, interests, and rights and presents them to the court.
The judge’s job is to make the decision that he or she feels is in the young person’s best interest. So, while this may not be what the young person wants, the law says the young person’s views must be considered.
No. We will carefully review the request for a lawyer and make a decision based on a number of variables. For example, a lawyer may not be appointed if everyone agrees to the court application and the other parties do not have a lawyer, or if the young person does not want a lawyer.
No. In these circumstances, we recommend contacting Legal Aid Alberta as they may be able to assist.
No, if a lawyer is assigned there is no cost to the young person.
If the young person is 12 years of age or older, we will speak to the young person to ensure they agree before a lawyer is appointed, except in situations where the court has ordered it. If the court has ordered it, then it is mandatory that a lawyer be appointed.
To learn more or to request an LRCY lawyer, please call us at 1-800-661-3446 or email ca.information@ocya.alberta.ca.
Watch our LRCY video to learn more about how having a lawyer can help to elevate the voices of young people.
Join Our Roster
Are you a lawyer who is interested in joining our LRCY roster?
We need:
- Indigenous lawyers who are experienced in Family Law.
- Lawyers who reside and practice in more remote areas (outside of Edmonton or Calgary areas) with at least 5 years’ experience.
Please submit a resume with a letter of intent to be considered for the roster.
All lawyers joining the roster must be in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta and agree to follow LRCY Policies and Standards.
For more information, please contact:
LRCY.information@ocya.alberta.ca
1-800-661-3446
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