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Courtworkers Frequently Asked Questions

What do Native Courtworkers do?

Their role is to provide information and guidance to aboriginal persons charged with an offence.  For example, Native Courtworkers can explain to the accused person the nature of the charge against him or her and the way the criminal justice system works.  Native Courtworkers can also help clients by directing them to various services available such as alcohol and drug counselling and legal aid.

What if I think I broke the law and I need a lawyer?  Can Native Courtworkers help me?

Yes.  Native Courtworkers cannot give you legal advice, but if you can afford a lawyer, they can give you a list of lawyers practicing in your community who specialize in your matter.  Native Courtworkers can also direct you to the Lawyer Referral Service where you can arrange for an appointment with a lawyer for a minimal fee.

Can Native Courtworkers help me with legal aid?

Referrals for legal aid are often done at court when a client has just received his or her Particulars (the details of the charge which is contained in the police report).  A Native Courtworker can review all legal information with you and provide a referral to a legal aid office.

Do the services of a Native Courtworker cost anything?

Native Courtworker services are free for qualified individuals.  Qualified individuals mean aboriginal persons of First Nations, Métis and Inuit descent.  (common law relationships are considered).

Is everything I tell the Native Courtworker confidential?

Yes.  However should you disclose a case of child abuse or neglect, it is required by law to immediately report to the authorities.  This association practices the principles of the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) to protect the personal information of client documentation.  A Native Courtworker will explain our confidentiality policies to you.

Can a Native Courtworker refuse to assist me?

Native Courtworkers cannot represent an accused and victim at the same time.  They will make every attempt to refer you to another agency.

Can Native Courtworkers assist me in obtaining my police report?

Yes.  They can ask crown counsel for circumstances to provide you with information for you to make an informed decision on how you want to proceed with charges.

Can Native Courtworkers assist me in speaking to sentence?

Yes.  If you make a decision to plead guilty, the Native Courtworker can speak on your behalf.  If you decide to plead not guilty the Native Courtworker can support you in the trial process.

Can Native Courtworkers give presentations to my school, agency or community group?

Yes.  Native Courtworkers are available to speak on their roles as well as providing information on the criminal justice system.