Duty Counsel Day

October 27 is Duty Counsel Day. Initiated by Canada’s legal aid associations, the day raises awareness of duty counsel—legal aid lawyers who deliver court-based legal services to eligible clients across Canada.

It is important for Canadians to know their rights and how they can exercise them. Whether dealing with the police or courts, or even just completing forms, it’s critical to understand what’s happening, why it’s happening and what options are available.

This is where duty counsel can help. In 2022-23, duty counsel provided over 712,000 assists across Ontario.

Anyone can suddenly find themselves in the justice system, which is complex and can be overwhelming. Confusion can lead to bad outcomes and disrupt and delay the legal process.

This is why duty counsel exist. At the courthouse, virtually or over the phone, they are there for you.

Sharing our stories

Meet some of our duty counsel:

• Steven Akman
• Alana Logie
• Ash Kevani

Get involved

We encourage you to participate in education sessions and share content on social media by joining the conversation with the hashtag #knowdutycounsel.

• Educational kits
• Social media images