1 Duty counsel are typically available

for small claims and real estate disputes.

in criminal courts, family courts, or immigration hearings.

in superior court bankruptcy matters.

to review and draft a variety of contracts.

for commercial litigation.

2 Duty counsel are

law students who are fulfilling requirements established by a provincial law society.

legal assistants who offer legal services at rates significantly lower than those charged by lawyers.

retired lawyers and judges who volunteer through legal aid societies.

non-lawyers who provide advice to those in financial need.

lawyers who assist individuals in court who are not represented by a lawyer.