Legal Aid Ontario’s new Family Senior Counsel program
Published: January 24, 2025
Legal Aid Ontario is excited to announce our new Family Senior Counsel (FSC) program. This certificate-based service will help more of LAO’s most vulnerable clients receive legal representation.
What is the FSC program?
The FSC program will connect dedicated FSC lawyers with family law and child protection clients who may face unique challenges with receiving legal services through the traditional certificate program.
The mandate of the FSC will include representation of clients who are significantly vulnerable with complicated legal needs that require additional support.
The work of FSC lawyers will not replace the existing work of family law roster members. The FSC program is intended to expand LAO’s family law services. It will be offered in locations across the province with a significant unmet demand for specialized family lawyers to help legal aid clients in need.
Representation by family senior counsel is voluntary, and clients may refuse this option without impacting their eligibility for other services, including certificate services from roster members.
This program is supported by the following LAO management team:
- Director Lisa Banerjee-Wood
- Manager of Legal Services Lauren Calderwood
- Manager of Operations Mark Graham
For further questions or information about the FSC program, you are welcome to reach out to our legal team.
- Email: familyseniorcounsel@lao.on.caa>
- Toronto: 416 979-2352 ext. 7300
- Toll free: 1-800 668-8258 ext. 7300
Which locations offer FSC services?
Our FSC services are located throughout the province with a plan to expand the number of locations serviced as the program grows.
If clients qualify for the certificate program and cannot locate a lawyer to represent them in their area, those with matters in the following locations may be referred to the program.
| District | Locations |
|---|---|
| Central East |
|
| Central West |
|
| East |
|
| North |
|
| Toronto |
All locations of the Ontario Court of Justice and Superior Court of Justice |
| West |
|
Who is eligible to receive FSC services?
Clients that are legally and financially eligible for the certificate program but cannot find a lawyer to represent them in a location where the program offers legal services may be referred to the program.
As a reminder, the mandate of the program includes representing clients who are significantly vulnerable with complicated legal needs. This includes clients who:
- have not been able to secure counsel locally through the certificate program or other Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) services; or
- have exhausted their options for changing lawyers.
How can I refer clients to the program?
You may easily refer clients to the FSC program by filling out the French or English referral forms below and emailing it to familyseniorcounsel@lao.on.ca. We are also happy to receive referrals directly by phone or email.
Once you have submitted a referral, it will be reviewed, and you will receive a response within two (2) business days acknowledging your request. Our FSC staff will review all referrals to determine a client’s eligibility. If a client is found to be ineligible, our staff will gladly assist by providing referrals to alternative services or resources that may meet the client’s needs.
The creation of this program is an exciting development for LAO. The program is a reflection of our continued commitment to improving access to justice for legal aid clients across the province. If you have any questions about the program, please reach out to us at familyseniorcounsel@lao.on.ca.