Making legal aid accessible to more Albertans
Legal Aid Alberta plays an integral role in the administration of justice by supporting some of Alberta’s most vulnerable citizens. It provides affordable legal services in family law, family violence matters, child welfare, immigration, as well as youth and adult criminal defence for lower-income Albertans.
To ensure more Albertans have access to legal aid services, Alberta’s government is increasing the qualifying income threshold, also known as the financial eligibility guidelines from $24,456 (gross) per year to $30,000 (gross) per year. This means anyone making up to $30,000 (gross) per year could become eligible to receive representation through legal aid, thereby opening doors for more Albertans to access legal aid services.
The new eligibility guidelines take effect April 1.
“Legal aid helps people in some of the most trying periods of their lives. Whether it’s a parent fighting for child support or a survivor of domestic violence fleeing an abusive partner, fairness before the courts shouldn’t depend on the size of a person’s bank account. Increasing the financial eligibility guidelines will allow more Albertans to qualify for legal aid and get the help they need when they need it.” — Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General
“For 50 years, Legal Aid Alberta has helped resolve legal problems for Albertans. Increasing access to our services means more Albertans will be able to get the help they need to deal with the complexities of the legal system. It is an important step for improving access to justice for Albertans living paycheque to paycheque.” — Gianpaolo (John) Panusa, president and CEO, Legal Aid Alberta
Alberta’s government remains committed to ensuring Albertans have access to an effective and affordable justice system and will continue to support Legal Aid Alberta to ensure these important services are accessible to those who need them.
Quick facts
Legal Aid Alberta served 35,449 clients in 2022-23.
The Government of Alberta, the Alberta Law Foundation and the federal government fund legal aid.