February 28, 2014 – Calgary – Department of Justice Canada
Today, Justice Minister Peter MacKay announced that the Department of Justice has adopted a new Policy on Pro Bono Legal Services by Justice Lawyers. The policy was developed in response to a widespread desire among Justice lawyers to participate in pro bono legal services as a way to directly give back to their communities. The Minister made the announcement while delivering the William A. Howard Memorial Lecture at the University of Calgary.
Justice lawyers can now volunteer their personal time at specified pro bono clinics that offer free legal services to Canadians living with limited means. The Department is proud to support its lawyers in their personal goals and professional obligation to increase access to justice for Canadians who might otherwise not be able to afford legal advice.
The Department of Justice is also grateful for the support provided by the law societies and the pro bono clinic operators who participated in the pilot initiative and thanks them for aiding Justice lawyers in the delivery of pro bono legal services to Canadians.
The new pro bono policy is an important part of the Department’s work to promote a fair and accessible system of justice. In supporting federal Crown lawyers efforts to volunteer for pro bono legal services, the Department is supporting all Canadians and increasing accessibility to justice.
- Paloma Aguilar
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Justice
613-992-4621
- Media Relations
Department of Justice
613-957-4207
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