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Finding Help | Managing Costs | Self-Representation | Complaints |
Finding Help
Finding a Commissioner of Oaths or a Notary Public
The formal process of signing a legal document is called “executing a document”. There are some documents that need to be executed (signed) in front of a commissioner of oaths or a notary public.
Commissioners of oaths and notaries are people who are authorized to help with the execution of certain legal documents.
Our organization does not provide these services. However, we have provided some information about them on this webpage.
Not all documents need to be signed in front of a commissioner of oaths or notary public, only some do. If the document is a form for a government department or financial institution, and they require the document to be signed in front of a commissioner of oaths or notary public, usually it will say so on the document.
Signing a document in front of a commissioner of oaths or notary public does not guarantee that the document is valid. If a person tries to intimidate you with a document by pointing out that it was signed in front of a commissioner of oaths or notary public, you should be suspicious of that person.
Finding a Commissioner of Oaths
Commissioners are authorized to take your oath or solemn affirmation when you sign an affidavit (sworn or affirmed document) or statutory declaration. When you sign an affidavit in front of a Commissioner of Oaths you are swearing or affirming that the document's contents are true. The Commissioner will sign the document as well, and type, print or stamp their name and the words “A Commissioner of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia”
For information about becoming a Commissioner of Oaths visit the Nova Scotia Department of Justice website at novascotia.ca/just/legal_services/commissioner_oaths.asp, or call 902-424-4030.
Finding a Commissioner of Oaths
- All practising lawyers are Commissioners of Oaths. The Nova Scotia Barristers' Society has an online lawyer directory.
- You can also call the Nova Scotia Department of Justice at 902-424-4030 for the name of a Commissioner of Oaths in your community.
- You can have some types of documents commissioned at any ACCESS Nova Scotia location in the province, at no cost - generally documents you need to file with ACCESS Nova Scotia. Contact Access Nova Scotia for details
- If you are filing documents with the court that need to be commissioned, you can usually do that at the court. Depending on the court, there may be a fee to have court staff commission documents. Contact the court for more information.
- Other people in your community may also be Commissioners, such as:
- some provincial or municipal government employees, including court staff
- some police officers (officers, municipal chiefs of police)
- funeral directors
- Commissionaires Nova Scotia
- officers in the Canadian Armed Forces
- Band Council member
- Members of the Nova Scotia legislature (MLAs)
Finding a Notary
A notary public can do the same things that a commissioner of oaths can do and they can also "notarize" copies of documents. This means verifying that a copy of a document is a true copy of the original.
Contact a lawyer’s office if you need the services of a notary. Law offices that provide notary services advertise online and in the Yellow Pages.
There is a fee to have a document notarized, usually in the range of $40 to $75 for a single document with a discount for any additional documents.
Authentication of Canadian documents for use outside Canada
Global Affairs Canada, Authentication Services Section, authenticates Canadian documents for use abroad, including:
- official Canadian documents, such as birth, marriage or death certificates, educational documents (transcripts, degrees, diplomas), criminal clearance certificates; and
- documents signed by a Canadian notary public or Commissioner of Oaths.
Global Affairs also issues Statements in lieu of Certificates of Non-Impediment to Marriage Abroad for persons who want to get married outside Canada in a country where such a document is needed. For more information visit international.gc.ca or call 1 800 267-8376.
Last reviewed: May 2024
Finding a lawyer in private practice (lawyer you would pay)
This page is about finding a lawyer in private practice (a lawyer you would pay). It has:
- 8 tips for doing a lawyer search
- answers to common questions about finding a lawyer
- some suggestions for how to find a lawyer
In many ways, finding a lawyer is the same as finding any other service provider. Lawyers advertise their services online, in print, on billboards, on buses, and at community events, just like other businesses.
However, there are some ways that lawyers are different from other service providers. So here are some tips specifically about finding a lawyer:
Tip 1: Find out what kind of lawyer you need
Most lawyers focus their practice on specific types of law. Even a lawyer who says they have a “general practice” will usually limit their scope of practice to certain areas.
Lawyers are not supposed to dabble in subjects they are not familiar with. So if you go to a lawyer with a case that is outside their scope of practice, expect them to turn it down.
Here is a list of some of the most common areas of practice along with some myths and realities you may encounter:
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Administrative |
The laws about decision-making by people in government and other public institutions. When a decision is made by someone who got their authority from a statute, it could fall within the scope of administrative law. Myth: If you disagree with a government decision, you can just sue the government. Reality: The law requires people to use whatever administrative review process is available instead of filing a lawsuit. |
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Civil litigation |
The fancy term for lawsuits. Civil litigation is a broad category, there are lots of different types of lawsuits. If a firm advertises that it does civil litigation generally, without specifying case types, it usually means they will consider a fairly wide range of cases. Myth: Civil litigation lawyers always work on contingency. Reality: Up front retainers are required for most types of civil lawsuits. |
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Corporate/ commercial |
The fancy terms for business law. Lawyers that do corporate/commercial help businesspeople with the legal aspects of their business. Myth: Business lawyers find loopholes for businesses to exploit. Reality: Business lawyers advise businesses on how to comply with the law. |
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Criminal |
The more accurate term is “criminal defence”. Lawyers that do criminal law defend people in court who have been formally charged with criminal or regulatory offences. Myth: A criminal defence lawyer can charge someone with a crime. Reality: Criminal defence lawyers defend people from charges in court, they don’t have any special authority to press charges. |
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Family |
The laws about family relationships. These laws are mostly about your relationship with your spouse (if you have one) and your children (if you have any). Family law usually comes up when relationships break down - for example, when a couple separates. Myth: If the situation involves people in the same family, you should go to a family lawyer. Reality: There are many disputes between family members that don’t have anything to do with family law. For example, disputes about wills (wills and estates law), disputes about property transactions (property law), or disputes about family owned businesses (business law). |
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Full Service |
The broadest possible scope of practice. A law firm that advertises as full-service is implying that they can take on just about any type of legal matter. Myth: If a firm is full-service, that means they’ll definitely take my case. Reality: Full-service firms have capacity limits just like any other business and, like any other law firm, they can’t take cases if they have a conflict of interest. |
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Immigration |
The laws about immigrating to Canada. Myth: An immigration lawyer can give me advice about immigrating to a different country. Reality: Immigration lawyers help people immigrate to Canada. If you want to immigrate to a different country, you should consult with an immigration lawyer in that country (unless you find an immigration lawyer in Canada that specifically advertises that they give advice about immigrating to the specific country you have in mind). |
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Labour/employment |
The laws about the employer-employee relationship. “Labour law” usually refers to unionized workplaces. “Employment law” usually refers to non-unionized workplaces. Myth: A lawyer can stop my employer from firing me. Reality: A lawyer can help you respond if you are fired illegally (if you’re in a union, you first need to go through your union). |
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Personal injury |
Lawsuits about personal injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, and serious injuries from defective products. Sometimes it includes things medical malpractice and sexual abuse, but not always. Myth: A personal injury lawyer can help me with whatever lawsuit I have in mind. Reality: Personal injury lawyers usually have a limited scope of practice, meaning they focus on a few specific types of lawsuits. |
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Property |
The laws about the use and ownership of personal and real property (land). Myth: All property lawyers have the same scope of practice. Reality: Not all property lawyers do dispute resolution or litigation. If you’re in a property related dispute, make sure the property lawyer you consult with does those things. |
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Wills and estates |
The laws about supportive decision-making, end-of-life planning and what happens after death. This usually includes wills, trusts, powers of attorney, personal directives, guardianship and probate. Myth: Getting help to make a will or other estate planning document is really expensive. Reality: Most firms that do wills and estates law offer basic estate planning packages for a reasonable flat rate. |
Those are the most common areas of practice. They’re not the only ones. There are other areas of practice that are less common in a market the size of Nova Scotia. For example, things like human rights, health law, professional regulation, or privacy law.
If you’re looking for a lawyer that focuses on a niche area of law, usually a good starting point is to check at a full-service law firm.
Tip 2: Learn some other common words used in the legal industry
If you visit websites for a few different law firms, you’ll notice they use lots of the same words. For example, there are words for the people who work at the law firm:
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Partner |
A lawyer who has a managing/ownership interest in the law firm. |
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Associate |
A lawyer who works for the law firm. |
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Articled Clerk |
A recent law school graduate who is completing their legal training with the firm. |
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Paralegal |
A member of the firm’s support staff who performs tasks that require knowledge of the law, but not the full expertise of a lawyer. |
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Legal Assistant |
A member of the firm’s support staff who provides administrative, scheduling, and clerical support to the lawyer and paralegals. |
Other frequently used terms that are helpful to know are:
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Administrative tribunal |
Like a court, but the decision-maker isn’t a judge, instead it’s someone who was given legal authority by the government to make a specific type of decision. |
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Barrister |
A lawyer who goes to court, engages in advocacy, and is prepared to litigate. |
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Levels of court |
There isn’t just one court. The court system is divided into different levels. Go here for more information about that. |
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Litigator |
A lawyer that does lawsuits. |
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Mediator |
Someone who helps people reach an agreement. Go here for more information about mediation. |
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Notary |
Someone who is authorized to formally witness signatures on legal documents. |
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Solicitor |
A lawyer who works out-of-court, provides advice, and assists with paperwork, but who does not litigate. |
It’s also very helpful to know:
- the terms lawyers use for their areas of practice, so make sure you read Tip 1.
- the terms lawyers use for billing, so read this page about how lawyers charge for their work.
Finally, there are also lots of commonly used initials and acronyms:
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BA |
Bachelor of Arts. An undergraduate university degree, usually completed in 4 years. |
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BSC |
Bachelor of Science. An undergraduate university degree, usually completed in 4 years. |
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LLB |
Bachelor of Laws. A law degree, usually completed in 3 years. |
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JD |
Doctor of Law. Another term for a law degree, usually completed in 3 years. |
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LLM |
Master of Laws. A graduate level university degree that takes a minimum of 1 year to complete. Not required for the practice of law. |
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KC |
King’s Counsel. A designation issued selectively by the government to recognize senior lawyers with at least 15 years of distinguished service. |
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TEP |
Trust and Estates Practitioner. A person who is a fully certified member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. Implies that wills, estates, and trusts is a core part of their practice. |
Tip 3: Get the most out of the lawyer’s website
The average lawyer or law firm will have a modern, mobile-friendly website. Now that you know what kind of lawyer you need (Tip 1) and some basic terminology (Tip 2), you’re in a good position to get the most out of the lawyer’s website.
Most of lawyer’s websites are organized the same way. On their website you will usually find:
- A page or drop-down menu that lists the services offered by the firm
- This list will usually be organized by area of law, which is why you should read Tip 1
- A profile page with information about the lawyers who work at the firm
- This page will usually include information about the areas of law the lawyer focuses on and it will usually also use some of the standard legal industry terms we talked about in Tip 2.
- Contact information
- Some firms list contact information for each lawyer individually, but others just provide general information for contacting the firm.
Some sites will also include blogs with posts written by lawyers at the firm, links to resources, or a brief history of the firm.
Rarely, lawyers will include specific information about their fees. If a lawyer offers flat fees for services, de-bundles legal services, or has set fees for consultations you may see them listed on the website.
Take your time to review the information on the website. On a good website you should be able to figure out:
- Approximately how many lawyers work at the firm
- Whether those lawyers have support staff (paralegals, legal assistants)
- What areas of law the lawyers practice
- Approximately how long the lawyers have been practicing
Tip 4: Do some extra research on the lawyer
Just like you would for any other business, you can check online for reviews of the lawyer or their law firm. However, there’s some other research you can do that’s specific to lawyers.
Every lawyer in Nova Scotia must be registered with the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society. The Barristers’ Society also takes complaints about lawyers and disciplines them if they breach the Code of Professional Conduct.
Check the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society directory to confirm the lawyer is registered. You can also see when they were called to the bar and whether there is any disciplinary information about the lawyer.
If the lawyer is a courtroom lawyer (for example, if they work as a litigator or a barrister), check if they are listed in any reported cases.
When a case goes to a hearing or trial, sometimes the decision is reported and the lawyers names are recorded in the decision.
You can search for reported cases for free on the Canadian Legal Information Institute's website (canlii.org). To search for cases that mention a specific lawyer, enter the lawyer's name in quotation marks (e.g. “Jane Doe”) in the search window entitled “Document text”.
Only a small percentage of decisions are reported, so not all courtroom lawyers will appear on a search like that. However, if you do find some results, it can give you a bit more insight into the lawyer’s practice.
Tip 5: Prepare a 2 line summary of your case
When you start contacting law firms, it’s important to be able to quickly state what your case is about and what you’re looking for.
You don’t need to give a full case history right away. At first you just need to give enough information for the lawyer or their support staff to assess whether the case might fit within the lawyer's scope of practice. If the lawyer or their support staff need more information from you, they’ll ask for it.
Even if your case is complicated, you should be able to summarize it in just two sentences:
- Sentence #1 - a brief description of what’s going on (for example, “I fell in a store’s parking lot and hurt myself.”)
- Sentence #2 - a brief description of what you want (for example, “I want to know whether I’m entitled to any money.”)
If your case is very complicated, you can add one more sentence just to identify that it’s a complicated matter. For example, you could state your 2 line summary and then also say, “That’s just a general description, it’s a complicated situation and I have lots more to add.”
If you end up having to contact more than one law firm, you’ll save lots of time if you have a 2 sentence summary of your case. It will prevent you from having to tell your whole story over and over again.
Keep in mind that you might not talk to a lawyer at first. You might start off by talking to a legal assistant or another member of the lawyer's support staff like a paralegal.
The law firm must run a conflict check before speaking with you on your matter in depth. You can expect them to ask your full name and the names of the people or companies involved in your matter. They will check these names against any other client files they have to ensure that they are not in conflict with existing matters.
If you’re having trouble summarizing your case, doing a bit of research about the law might help. Researching can help you learn key terms and identify specific issues that are involved in your case.
Tip 6: Ask about the intake process
Once you find a lawyer or law firm that you’re interested in, contact the firm to ask some preliminary questions. For example, you might:
- Ask whether the lawyer is taking on new cases
- Confirm that the lawyer takes cases like yours - this is where it’s helpful to have a brief description of your case, so read Tip 5
- Ask how the lawyer does intake with potential new clients. For example:
- Does the lawyer only offer in-person meetings or do they offer appointments by phone or video conference?
- How long is the initial meeting?
- How much does the initial meeting cost?
- Don’t expect your first meeting to be free. Free consultations are only standard at personal injury firms. In other areas of law, lawyers usually expect their regular hourly rate for an initial consultation.
You can also ask some general questions about fees and billing, but in many cases the answers depend on the lawyer's assessment of the case so don’t expect to get definite answers in a preliminary call or email.
Tip 7: Be prepared to shop around
Don’t be surprised if you end up having to contact more than one lawyer or law firm during your search. The lawyer or law firm that you contact might be:
- At capacity and not taking on any new clients
- Unavailable due to a conflict of interest
- Unavailable due to a scheduling issue
- Uninterested in your case because it’s outside their scope of practice
- Or uninterested in your case because they don’t think it’s a strong case
Tip 8: Prepare for your initial interview
Once you’ve found a lawyer or law firm that is available to meet with you, you need to prepare for your initial interview with the lawyer.
Don’t expect a lawyer to give you legal advice immediately. Lawyers need to understand all of the important facts before they give any advice about a case. If you’re looking for legal advice, expect to answer lots of questions before you get it.
We suggest you review this guide to a successful interview with your lawyer.
FAQs
How much will it cost?
The only way to find out is to contact law firms and ask. Lawyers hourly rates can range from anywhere between $200 to $1,000 per hour.
Fees for particular services vary depending mainly on:
- The nature and complexity of the work
- Whether the case involves dispute resolution or court time
- And the seniority of the lawyer doing the work.
There are some basic things that firms usually do for a flat rate (if they fall within the firm's scope of practice). Things like:
- Real estate transactions (property lawyers)
- Incorporating a small business (business lawyers)
- Basic estate planning documents - wills, powers of attorney, personal directives (wills and estates lawyers)
- Uncontested divorces (family lawyers)
- Permanent residence applications (immigration lawyers)
However, there are many legal issues that are open-ended so it’s not always possible for a lawyer to quote a flat rate or to precisely foresee what the total cost of a matter will be.
If your case involves a dispute with another person (for example, a business partner, an ex-spouse, a neighbour, etc.), it may cost a lot to deal with, particularly if you end up in court.
Go here for information about how lawyers usually charge for their work.
How do I find an affordable lawyer?
If cost is a concern, you’re going to have to do some shopping around. Here are some things to ask about if you are looking for a lawyer in private practice and cost is an issue:
- do you offer pro bono (free) help?
- can you help me with just part of my case? Lawyers call this a "Limited Scope Retainer"
- do you offer coaching for people who are representing themselves? Coaching is basically out-of-court strategic support
- do you charge a flat fee for this type of work?
- will you consider a contingency fee agreement?
- what is your hourly rate?
- can the lawyer wait to get paid once you get the money you are seeking (for example, spousal support, matrimonial property division).
Go here for more information about how lawyers charge for their work.
Can I get a lawyer on contingency?
It depends on what kind of case you have.
A contingency fee arrangement is when a lawyer is paid at the end of the case. The contingency fee is a percentage of the money the lawyer gets for you if successful. If you win, the lawyer gets the percentage agreed on as the lawyer's fee.
Contingency fees are mainly used by personal injury lawyers in cases where the claimant has a severe bodily injury. Contingency fees are much less common in other areas of law. In any case, it’s up to the lawyer to decide whether to offer a contingency fee arrangement.
Go here for more information about how lawyers charge for their work.
Can I hire a paralegal?
No. Paralegals in Nova Scotia are not authorized to practice independently. That means you cannot hire a paralegal instead of hiring a lawyer.
Not all lawyers work with paralegals, but they can be a real asset to those lawyers that do. When you’re deciding which law firm to contact, you should check the firm's website to see if they have paralegals on staff (see Tip 3). It’s an important factor because a firm with good paralegals may be able to handle your matter more efficiently and for less money.
Is it true that big firms are more expensive?
That’s an overgeneralization. Like we said, the cost of legal services is based mostly on:
- The nature and complexity of the work
- Whether the case involves dispute resolution or court time
- And the seniority of the lawyer doing the work.
In some cases the size of the law firm can also be a factor, but it’s secondary to those more important factors.
What does it mean when a lawyer says they have a conflict?
A conflict of interest is when the interests (goals, priorities, etc.) of two or more people are incompatible.
When a lawyer says they have a conflict of interest it usually means that the lawyer (or someone else at the firm) has a professional or personal relationship with someone involved in the case. Lawyers have to avoid conflicts of interest.
Lawyers must identify when they have a conflict of interest. However, that doesn’t mean the lawyer has to give you details about the conflict. In other words, they must tell you if there is a conflict of interest, but they do not have to say who or what is causing the conflict.
For lawyers, declining cases because of conflicts of interest is a standard part of doing business. Don’t jump to any conclusions if a lawyer or law firm says they have a conflict.
With that said, if you contact lots of law firms and they all tell you that there is a conflict of interest, sometimes that’s an indication that there’s something unattractive about your case.
Ways to find a lawyer
When it comes to finding a lawyer, you can apply many of the same strategies you would use to find any other service provider that you might need. That includes:
- searching online or in the Yellow Pages
- reading the website for the lawyer or their law firm
- checking for reviews on google, social media, or other ratings sites
- asking for recommendations from friends, family, colleagues, or other professionals that you work with (like realtors, accountants, mortgage brokers, etc.)
Personal recommendations
It’s old-fashioned, but word-of-mouth is still a fine way to get started on searching for a lawyer.
You can ask for personal recommendations from:
- Other professionals that you’ve worked with (for example, accountants, mortgage brokers, realtors, etc.)
- Co-workers and other colleagues from your work or business
- Trusted service providers at community agencies that you have relationships with
- Trusted friends, family members or other people in your social network.
Keep in mind the type of lawyer you are looking for. For example, if you need a criminal lawyer, someone giving you a recommendation for a great property lawyer isn’t exactly what you need. However, it can be worth following up on a recommendation, even if the lawyer doesn’t practice the type of law you’re looking for. The lawyer may work at a firm with other lawyers that take cases like yours or they might have a suggestion for a different firm that you can contact.
Search online
Most law firms have modern, mobile-friendly websites. Most of their websites are organized the same way. On their website you will usually find:
- A page or drop-down menu that lists the services offered by the firm
- A profile page with information about the lawyers who work at the firm
- Contact information
Make sure to review our tips for doing a lawyer search to ensure you get the most out of the lawyer’s website.
Telephone Directories
Lawyers are listed in the telephone book, both online and in print, in alphabetical order as well as under location and the type of law they do.
If you’re looking through a telephone book, make sure you know what type of lawyer you are looking for.
Your Employee Assistance Program
If you have an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) in your workplace, contact your EAP to see whether they provide help in finding and/or paying for a lawyer in private practice, or cover the costs of a consultation with a lawyer.
Your insurance provider
Some insurance companies provide their customers with access to summary legal advice on certain legal matters related to their property or personal life. Not all insurance companies provide this type of service and where it is provided, terms and conditions apply. Check with your insurance provider to see whether they offer this kind of service.
Your union
If you are a member of a union, you can ask your union whether they can offer any help in finding a lawyer, or help with covering the cost of a consultation with a lawyer or legal fees.
Francophone lawyers
Pour obtenir de l’information en français ainsi qu’une liste des juristes d’expression française en Nouvelle Écosse, veuillez communiquer avec le centre Accès Justice Access, un project de l’Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE). L’AJEFNE est un organisme à but non lucratif fondé en 1994 pour promouvoir l’accès aux services juridiques pour la population acadienne et francophone de la Nouvelle-Écosse.
Contact:
www.ajefne.ns.ca
1741, rue Brunswick / 1741 Brunswick Street, Halifax, Nouvelle-Écosse B3J 3Z6
Téléphone: 902-433-2085 ou 1-844-250-8471
Legal Info Nova Scotia's Lawyer Referral Service
If you plan to hire a lawyer, the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia has a Lawyer Referral Service through which you might be referred to a lawyer for an initial consultation of up to 30 minutes for no more than $20 plus tax, if a referral is appropriate in your situation.
Go here for more information about how the Lawyer Referral Service works.
Last reviewed: May 2024
Free and low cost legal help in Nova Scotia
This page provides information about the various free and low-cost legal services offered by different organizations across Nova Scotia.
What services are available depends on the type of legal issue you have, so this page is organized by legal topic.
Click on a legal topic below to learn more.
African Nova Scotian Justice Resources
African Nova Scotian Justice Institute
The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute addresses issues of systemic racism in the justice system while ensuring fair, legal and constitutional treatment of African Nova Scotians and all black people of African descent.
Services may include:
- Monitoring human rights and holding police accountable
- Legal defense for community justice issues
- Supporting African Nova Scotians in court
- Providing alternative justice options for offenders
- A holistic approach to supporting victims
- Supporting through incarceration and reintegration
- Collecting important data and statistics to advocate for change
- Producing/Training on Impact of Race and Culture Assessments
- Various support for African Nova Scotians in conflict with the criminal justice system
- Public education on systemic racism in the justice system.
- Increasing justice awareness among youth
Contact:
- Website: https://www.ansji.ca/
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (902) 492-5619
Land Title's Initiative
The Land Titles Initiative (LTI) helps residents in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook/Lake Loon, Lincolnville and Sunnyville get clear title to their land at no cost. There are Community Navigators to help all applicants involved in the Land Titles Initiative. Their role is to work directly with residents to help them through the land claims process. There are different ways to get clear land title. The Community Navigators will help you get on the right path and will track the progress on your case. They can also help connect you with other services you may need.
You can call a Community Navigator to ask questions about the status of the title to a parcel within the LTI communities. You do not need to have a land titles claim registered with the LTI. If title is unclear, you may submit an intake application to determine your eligibility for the LTI.
To speak with a Community Navigator or schedule a meeting call toll free: 1-833-424-6100 or email: [email protected]
902 ManUp
902 ManUp is a non-profit volunteer organization founded in 2016 in response to the increase in community violence, particularly involving black males. The organization is primarily dedicated to the advancement of all Black Communities within Nova Scotia and has a particular focus on the empowerment of young black males. However, their mandate includes all individuals or groups at risk of marginalization and social and academic exclusion.
Services include:
- violence intervention and prevention initiatives,
- mentorship,
- community outreach,
- professional development
- and more.
Civil law (lawsuits, Supreme Court, Court of Appeal)
Free Legal Clinic: Halifax Law Courts
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Halifax without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Halifax Law Courts may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. Family law issues, except child protection appeals, going before the Court of Appeal also qualify.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law issues in either Court, or family law issues in the Supreme Court Family Division. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer and law student for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic is open most Thursdays between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm in the Law Courts building 1815 Upper Water St., across from the foot of Duke Street. The Clinic area and the courthouse administration office are to the left when you come through the main entrance on the 2nd Floor. Follow the signs or ask at the reception desk.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment, call:
- 902-424-6900 for Supreme Court matters
- 902-424-6937 for Court of Appeal matters
You can also visit the Courts' Website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Sydney Courthouse
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Sydney without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Sydney Courthouse may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law or family law issues in either Court. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria mentioned above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic happens most Fridays, with appointments available at 10:00 am and 11:00 am. The Clinic is on the main floor of the courthouse at 136 Charlotte Street in Sydney. Follow the signs or ask at the reception desk to the right of the main doors.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment:
- call 902-563-3550, or make an appointment in person at the Court Administration office at the Sydney courthouse, 136 Charlotte Street
You can also visit the Courts' website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Truro Courthouse
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Truro without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Truro Supreme Court may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law or family law issues in either Court. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria mentioned above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic happens the first and third Friday of the month, Jan-June, Sept-Nov, except holidays. Appointments are available at 9 am, 10 am, and 11 am. The Clinic is at the Truro Supreme Court, 1 Church Street, Truro.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment:
- call 902-893-3953, or make an appointment in person at the Supreme Court Administration Office, Lower Floor, 1 Church Street, through the Prothonotary's Office.
You can also visit the Courts' website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Yarmouth Court
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Yarmouth without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Yarmouth Courthouse may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. Family law issues, except child protection appeals, going before the Court of Appeal also qualify.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law issues in either Court, or family law issues in the Supreme Court Family Division. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a free 60 minute session. Appointments are available at 9, 10, and 11 a.m. on the first and third Fridays of the month, except on holidays.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must fill out an application and schedule an appointment. People with close court dates get priority.
To make an appointment:
Appointments can be arranged in person at the Court Administration office at the Yarmouth courthouse, 164 Main Street. Ask for Court Administrator, Jean Brown. You can also make appointments by phone by calling 902-742-0580.
Visit the Courts' Website for more information.
Area of law: Civil
Free Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors
The Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors Program provides up to 4 hours of free, independent legal advice for sexual assault survivors who are 16 years of age or older. You do not have to report to police or take legal action if you use this service.
Registration is done through an independent agency, 211 Nova Scotia. Dial 2-1-1 for intake. Go to novascotia.ca/sexualassaultlegaladvice/ for more information.
Areas of law: Criminal, Civil
Free Legal Support for Surviviors or Workplace Sexual Harassment
Get free legal information help available at Legal Information Line (1-800-665-9779) or 902-455-3135, Livechat, and email: [email protected].
If you have experienced or have been affected by workplace sexual harassment, we can provide you legal support. Your questions can be answered with this free confidential legal service.
You can contact us for a confidential referral using one of the following options:
Fill out the information below
Or send us an email at
[email protected]
Or telephone, toll free anywhere in Nova Scotia, at
833-407-3600.
If you call, please leave a message telling us how to reach you and if it is safe to leave a return message when we call you back.
Common Questions about the Free Legal Advice Service
Is this service confidential?
Yes. We collect only the information we need to set up a meeting with a navigator or lawyer. We may ask you for an email address so we can send you a survey that will help us understand how to improve our program. The survey is optional and completely anonymous.
The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia will share some statistics with our funder, the federal Department of Justice. They will want to know how often Nova Scotians use the program and what part of the province they live in. The information we share will not identify anyone using the program.
What can I expect?
When you reach out to us, we will ask for some information: Email, phone number, employer, location, and a brief summary of your story. Once we receive this information we will connect you with one of our legally-trained navigators. Our navigators are trained to help you take the right action to deal with what has happened at your workplace. They are also trained to work with clients who may feel traumatized.
In your conversation, the Navigators will tell you about your rights and ways you can deal with what is happening at work. Everyone’s situation is different, and the Navigator will answer questions and provide guidance about your work situation and experience.
If the situation required additional supports, we may reach out to a volunteer Lawyer on our roster for additional supports and assistance.
You and the Navigator may use your four hours in the way that works best for you. For example, your first meeting might be two hours, and you might have another appointment later on.
You might not need four hours of legal support. If your issue is complex, you might feel that you need more than four hours. If you need more time, phone or email us and we will do our best to help.
Is there a cost?
No. Your can get up to for hours of free legal support. You might not need four hours of legal support. If your issue is complex, you might feel that you need more than four hours. If you need more time, phone or email us and we will do our best to help.
Do I have to take legal action if I get your support?
You are in control, and what you do next is entirely up to you.
For some people, taking legal action to deal with a sensitive matter can be overwhelming. You may take any of the steps or options that the lawyer tells you about, or you may do nothing. Our program aims to help you better understand your options so that you can make the choices and take the actions that are best for you.
I want a referral. What are the next steps?
If you have experienced workplace sexual harassment and need support, please either use the phone number or email address above, or fill out the form with your name, email, phone number, employer and where you are in Nova Scotia, and send to us. When you submit your information it will be sent to our Program Coordinator, who will be in touch to arrange a referral for you. We do our best to follow up within 48 hours.
When we respond, we will request that you provide us with a brief summary. This is to ensure that we match you with the most appropriate person to provide you the support you need. Please note: a brief summary is required to be matched.
We do need either a phone number or an email address to arrange a referral for you. You can give us either, or both. If you are comfortable providing an email address, we would be grateful so that in addition to arranging a referral we can also send you a feedback survey to help us improve our program.
We ask for your location so, if we need to connect you with a lawyer for further legal support, we can refer you to a lawyer in your community whenever possible and they can perform an accurate conflict of interest check.
When you disclose this information to us, it will be used solely by the LISNS Workplace Sexual Harassment Project team to help us match you with the appropriate supports, and understand how and where workplace sexual harassment is affecting Nova Scotians.
Conflict Check: Please note that if you see a lawyer through our referral program, the lawyer or administrative staff at the law firm will complete a conflict check. Don't worry: this is a standard practice at law firms. A lawyer can't give you advice if someone at their firm is already representing the other side on any kind of legal issue. If a law firm has a conflict, our Program Coordinator will work to find an alternative solution, such as different lawyer.
The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia is a free service that gives you information about the law and your rights and responsibilities. The Government of Canada, through the Department of Justice, graciously funds the pdf Workplace Sexual Harassment Legal Advice Program.(308 KB)
Copyright, Trademarks, Patents
Canadian Intellectual Property Office
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office is a federal government office that provides legal information and services on trademarks, patents, copyright, industrial designs and integrated circuit topographies.
Contact:
- Phone: 1-866-997-1936
- Website: cipo.ic.gc.ca
Areas of law: Intellectual Property.
Criminal law (see also: Prison law)
Free Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors
The Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors Program provides up to 4 hours of free, independent legal advice for sexual assault survivors who are 16 years of age or older. You do not have to report to police or take legal action if you use this service.
Registration is done through an independent agency, 211 Nova Scotia. Dial 2-1-1 for intake. Go to novascotia.ca/sexualassaultlegaladvice/ for more information.
Areas of law: Criminal, Civil
Help with Applying for a Peace Bond
Halifax Regional Police Victim Services Help with Applying for a Peace Bond
Individuals who wish to apply for a peace bond through the Provincial Court in Halifax and Dartmouth can get support from Halifax Regional Police (HRP) Victim Services. Victim Services volunteers will provide potential and current applicants with information on the application process, assistance to complete the application forms and ongoing emotional support. Contact HRP Victim Services at 902-490-5300 for more information about the Peace Bond Navigator program.
Peace bond help from Nova Scotia Legal Aid
Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) is committed to helping people applying for peace bond orders. NSLA Staff Lawyers can help by explaining the steps required to begin a peace bond application and then explaining the court process. If you are seeking assistance to apply for a peace bond order, you can contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid at 902-420-7800 or apply online. A lawyer will contact you and provide you with confidential advice and assistance.
Click here for Legal Information about Peace Bonds and how to apply for one
Area of law: Criminal
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on criminal defence law issues. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information, and go here for information about services and areas of criminal law covered.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel for all Nova Scotians facing criminal or drug charges
Help from Duty Counsel lawyers is available to all Nova Scotians facing criminal or drug charges.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel is available for:
- free, summary (brief) legal advice at court for those who do not have a lawyer
- youth and adults in custody (Criminal Law, court appearance at Bail Hearing)
- Emergency legal advice by telephone is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, province-wide, if you have been arrested or detained by police
Contact:
- Your local courthouse or Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/ or contact the court
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: Adult and youth criminal law
Mi'kmaq Legal Support Network
The Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network provides legal support services and victim support services to Indigenous people in Nova Scotia, particularly through the Mi'kmaw Court Worker Program and the Mi'kmaw Customary Law Program.
Contact:
- Phone:
- Cape Breton: 902-379-2042
- Dartmouth: 902-468-0381
- Truro: 902-895-1141
- Toll-free: 1-877-379-2042
Area of law: Criminal law
Debt and credit issues
Bankruptcy Assistance Program-Superintendent of Bankruptcy
If you are considering bankruptcy, you'll need the help of a licensed professional who administers the bankruptcy process, called a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT). Licensed Insolvency Trustees are licensed by the federal Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy.
If you are unable to get an LIT to accept your file, or if you cannot afford to hire an LIT, the Bankruptcy Assistance Program may be able to help if you:
- have contacted at least two LITs and tried to obtain their services
- are not, and have not recently been, involved in commercial activities
- are not required to make surplus income payments; and
- are not in jail.
Contact:
- Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada
- Phone: 1-877-376-9902
- Website: osb.ic.gc.ca
Areas of law: Credit and debt law, Bankruptcy law
Credit Counselling
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada:
https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/debt/debt-help.html: Information about how a credit counsellor can help you deal with debt, and how to find a trustworthy, qualified credit counselling service near you.
The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada has lots of free information about your options for managing debt.
Debtor Assistance Program, Service Nova Scotia
Note: as of July 2022 this program is on hiatus. Please check with Access Nova Scotia to find out if the program has started again.
The Debtor Assistance Program helps people experiencing financial difficulty deal with their creditors. You can meet with a licensed administrator who will review your situation and discuss options. If appropriate, administrators can file consumer proposals under the federal Bankruptcy Act. A consumer proposal is a debt repayment plan that avoids bankruptcy and is legally binding on creditors, if accepted. Administrators cannot file bankruptcy applications (you need a licensed insolvency trustee for that).
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or toll free 1-800-670-4357 or visit your local Access Nova Scotia office
- Website: novascotia.ca/sns/access/individuals/debtor-assistance.asp
Nova Scotia Legal Aid
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides a wide variety of services and programs to economically vulnerable Nova Scotians.
To get start-to-finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Free legal information and brief (summary) legal advice may be available for debt issues. It is important to contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid and fill out an application to see what help they can provide.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Credit and debt
Employment, Employment Insurance, Workers’ Compensation
Labour Standards Nova Scotia
Labour Standards Division, NS Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration
The Nova Scotia Labour Standards Code applies to employers, employees, and recruiters. There are also rules for the recruitment of workers and the hiring of foreign workers. The Labour Standards Division addresses questions and complaints from the public about how the provincial Labour Standards Code applies to specific employment situations. Complaints about potential violations of the Labour Standards Code generally must be filed within 6 months of the issue or incident occurring. If you file a complaint, an officer will try to settle the dispute and, if the dispute does not settle, will investigate and issue a formal decision, if necessary.
Labour Standards also has an online Guide to the Nova Scotia Labour Standards Code
Contact:
- Address: 1505 Barrington Street, 3rd Floor North, Halifax B3J 3K5
- Phone: 902-424-4311 or 1-888-315-0110 (toll-free in NS)
- Website: novascotia.ca/lae/employmentrights/
Labour Standards Division,NS Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration
Area of law: Employment law
Employment Insurance Appeals
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides information, advice and representation about Employment Insurance Appeals. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Legal Aid for information about help with an Employment Insurance issue.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about Employment Insurance Appeals
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Administrative law, Employment Insurance
Free legal services for Workers' Compensation issues
Workers' Advisers Program Nova Scotia
This Workers' Advisers Program offers legal services to eligible injured workers and their families, who are seeking compensation under Nova Scotia's Workers’ Compensation Act. Services are offered at all levels of appeals, including at Court in special cases. In general, in order to qualify for services, an injured worker must have a reasonable expectation of success in obtaining at least $500, or the equivalent, in an appeal from a Workers' Compensation Board written decision. The legal services are provided independently of the Workers’ Compensation Board and the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Tribunal. Clients of the program are in a solicitor/client relationship with the program and its staff, in the same way as they would be with any other lawyer or law firm in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
- Address:
- Halifax: 502–5670 Spring Garden Road Halifax, NS B3J 2X1
- Sydney: 5–1030 Upper Prince Street Sydney, NS B1P 5P6
- Phone (voice & TTY): 1-800-774-4712 (Halifax office) or 1-800-890-6786 (Sydney office)
- Website: novascotia.ca/lae/wap/
Area of law: Workers' Compensation
Information, advocacy, support on Workers' Compensation issues
Office of the Worker Counsellor
The Office of the Worker Counsellor offers information, advice, education and advocacy for injured workers, their representatives in the workplace and their family members on all aspects of workers’ compensation in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
- Address: Suite 220-3700 Kempt Road, Halifax, NS
- Phone : 902-455-5455 or 1 877-220-2722
- Website: workercounsellor.ca
Area of law: Workers' Compensation, Administrative law
Employment Law Legal Information-Halifax Workers' Action Centre
The Workers’ Action Centre helps non-unionized workers with labour standards issues, unpaid wages, terminations, workplace discrimination, and more. They provide free, one-on-one legal information sessions to low-wage and marginalized, non-unionized workers.
Contact:
- Website: halifaxwac.ca
- To schedule an appointment call (902) 221-0755 or email [email protected]
Area of law: Employment law
Environmental
East Coast Environmental Law
East Coast Environmental Law (ECELAW) is a non-profit organization that envisions a clean, healthy environment that is protected by the fair application of strong environmental laws. ECELAW was founded in 2007 with a mission to provide public access to environmental law information and advice, to promote the development and equitable application of progressive environmental laws, and to assist in the development of the next generation of lawyers who are committed to using the law to achieve environmental protection and sustainability. ECELAW provides a public inquiry service, partners with other environmental organizations, holds workshops, publishes citizen guides and research papers, and mentors environmental law students.
Contact:
• Phone: 902-494-7121 (Environmental law Inquiry Service)
• Website: www.ecelaw.ca
Areas of law: Environmental law; Aboriginal and Indigenous law in environmental contexts.
Family law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on family law issues, including child protection, custody, parenting time, child and spousal support, separation and divorce.
Some level of help is available to all Nova Scotians on family law issues. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: Family Law
Free Brief Legal Advice at Family Courts
Summary Advice Counsel at Family Courts
The Summary Advice Counsel is a lawyer who assists people who need legal advice on a family law matter, but who do not have a lawyer. The Summary Advice lawyer provides basic legal advice, free of charge, regardless of how much you make or where you get your income.
This service is available throughout Nova Scotia. Your case or issue must be somehow related to the court where the Summary Advice lawyer is located. For example, if you are making an application to the court in Halifax, you should book an appointment with the lawyer in Halifax.
The purpose of the Summary Advice Counsel service is to give people a better understanding of their legal rights and responsibilities. The Summary Advice lawyer can give basic information about legal terms, how to start or respond to a court application, court processes, legal documents, and other aspects of family law.
The Summary Advice lawyer can give advice on parenting arrangements, child support and spousal support, property division, divorce, and most other family law matters and court processes.
The Summary Advice lawyer does not provide advice to parents involved in child protection matters, or for matters involving Mi’kmaw Family Services. The Summary Advice lawyer may provide advice to a non-party to a child protection matter. For example, if you are not directly involved with a child protection proceeding and are applying for decision-making responsibility for, or contact with, the children involved.
The Summary Advice lawyer does not go to court with you. For more information about this service, click here.
You can contact your local Summary Advice lawyer to book an appointment by calling the appropriate number below:
|
Annapolis |
902-742-0500 |
Pictou |
902-485-7350 |
|
Antigonish |
902-863-7312 |
Port Hawkesbury |
902-625-2665 |
|
Amherst |
902-667-2256 |
Sydney |
902-563-2085 |
|
Bridgewater |
902-543-4679 |
Truro |
902-893-5840 |
|
Halifax |
902-424-5616 |
Windsor |
902-679-6075 |
|
Kentville |
902-679-6075 |
Yarmouth |
902-742-0500 |
Area of law: Family Law
Dalhousie Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides legal aid services to Nova Scotians who have a lower income and who would otherwise be unable to obtain legal advice. Generally, for family law issues you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before being assigned a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Area of law: Family law
General
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Information, Advice, Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid offers legal information, legal advice and representation. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must fill out an application and meet income and area of law requirements.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid only provides lawyers for certain types of law, generally Family Law, Criminal Law, and Social Justice, which includes Income assistance, Residential tenancies (tenant rights), CPP disability, and EI - Employment Insurance, Prison Law, Adult Capacity and Decision-making, Involuntary Psychiatric Treatment, Adult Protection.
Go to nslegalaid.ca for more information about available services and areas of law covered.
Youth qualify for services independently of their family.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Dalhousie Legal Aid Services
Dalhousie Legal Aid Service is a community legal clinic that provides legal aid services to people otherwise unable to obtain legal advice.
Generally, you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before getting a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid for family law or youth criminal law issues. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid directly about legal issues for people with low incomes, such as income assistance, tenant rights, human rights complaints, police complaints, mental health law issues, and disputes with Nova Scotia Power. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid for details about services and areas of law covered.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St., Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Lawyers in private practice: flexible fee options
Here are some things to ask about if you are looking for a lawyer in private practice and cost is an issue:
- can you help me with just part of my case? Lawyers call this a "Limited Scope Retainer" or "unbundled" services
- do you offer coaching for people who are representing themselves? Coaching is basically out-of-court strategic support
- do you charge a flat fee for this type of work?
- will you consider a contingency fee agreement?
- what is your hourly rate?
- can the lawyer wait to get paid once you get the money you are seeking (for example, spousal support, matrimonial property division)
- do you offer any pro bono (free) help?
Get more information about Finding a lawyer, and How lawyers charge for their work.
Housing
Dalhousie Legal Aid Tenant Rights Advice
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides free information, advice and representation to tenants on Residential Tenancies and low income housing issues. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid for details.
Download Dalhousie Legal Aid's Tenant Rights Guides
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Areas of law: Residential tenancies (Tenant rights), Administrative law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Tenant Rights Advice
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides free legal information, advice and representation on Residential Tenancies issues for tenants. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about tenant rights
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Residential tenancies (Tenant rights), Administrative law
Residential Tenancies (Service Nova Scotia)
Residential Tenancies (Service Nova Scotia)
The Residential Tenancies program, part of Service Nova Scotia, is the Nova Scotia government office that deals with residential landlord and tenant disputes. The Residential Tenancies program helps landlords and tenants understand their rights, and exercise those rights when necessary. They offer a range of services, including dispute resolution, residential tenancies forms and information booklets for both landlords and tenants.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or 1-800-670-4357
TTY: 1-877-404-0867 - In-person: Access Nova Scotia locations province-wide
- Website: novascotia.ca/sns/access/land/residential-tenancies.asp
Area of law: Residential Tenancies, for Landlords and Tenants
Condominium Dispute Resolution (Service Nova Scotia)
Service Nova Scotia: Condominium Dispute Resolution
Service Nova Scotia offers information about condominium ownership, how condominium corporations are operated, what costs are involved in condominium ownership, and what to watch for when buying a new or existing condominium.
They also offer ways for resolving disputes between condominium owners and condominium corporations - dispute resolution for minor disputes, and arbitration for other issues. There is a $124.60 fee to apply for dispute resolution.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or 1-800-670-4357
TTY: 1-877-404-0867 - In-person: Access Nova Scotia locations province-wide
- Website:novascotia.ca/sns/access/
Area of law: Condominium law
Income Assistance (Welfare)
Dalhousie Legal Aid Income Assistance Advice
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides free information, advice and representation to low income Nova Scotians on income assistance issues.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Areas of law: Income Assistance, Administrative law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Income Assistance Advice
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides free legal information, advice and representation on income assistance issues for low income Nova Scotians. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Youth qualify for services independently of their family.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about Income Assistance
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Income assistance, Administrative law
Indigenous Justice Services and Information
The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq
The mission of The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq (CMM) is to proactively promote and assist Mi’kmaw communities’ initiatives toward self determination and enhancement of community. The CMM has a number of plain language public legal education materials to help the Mi’kmaq understand their rights and responsibilities under the law, including:
- Mi’kmaq Wills Package: For Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq, which includes
1. Book One: How to Write a Will
2. Book Two: How to Settle an Estate
3. Book Three: How to Write a Power of Attorney and Personal Directive
4. Mi'kmaq Wills and Estates & Matrimonial Real Property
Copies are located in band offices of The CMM's member bands or can be found online at cmmns.com/program/wills-estates
They also have publications on other topics, such as:
- Emergency Protection Orders
- Exclusive Occupation Orders
- Mi’kmaw Matrimonial Real Property: A Guide for Bear River, Millbrook, Paqtnkek, Pictou Landing, and Sipekne'katik
You can find these publications, and others, in the resources section of their website.
Contact:
Address: 57 Martin Crescent Truro, NS B2N 6N7
Phone: 902-895-6385 or 1-877-892-2424
Website: cmmns.com
Areas of law: Wills and Estates law, Family law
Mi'kmaq Legal Support Network
The Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network provides legal support services and victim support services to Indigenous people in Nova Scotia, particularly through the Mi'kmaw Court Worker Program and the Mi'kmaw Customary Law Program.
Contact:
- Phone:
- Cape Breton: 902-379-2042
- Dartmouth: 902-468-0381
- Truro: 902-895-1141
- Toll-free: 1-877-379-2042
Area of law: Criminal law, including victim support
Indigenous Justice Initiative, Nova Scotia Legal Aid
This program offers services to Indigenous peoples and communities, both on and off reserve. Outreach services in and near Indigenous communities is offered in Indian Brook, Paq'tnkek, Wagmatcook, We'koqma'q, Potlokek, Eskasoni. Outreach is also provided at the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax. Indigenous lawyers are available in Dartmouth, Windsor, Sydney, Millbrook, Bridgewater, and Yarmouth.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
- Nova Scotia Legal Aid - Indigenous Justice Information and Resources
Areas of law: Family Law, Criminal Law, and Social Justice (income assistance, residential tenancies, CPP disability, EI)
Resource Guide for people who work with Indigenous Clients in the Atlantic Canadian Justice System
Bringing Balance to the Scales of Justice: Fulfilling Our Responsibility to Indigenous People involved in the Justice System (2018)
A resource guide that provides a general introduction to justice issues for people who work with Indigenous clients in the Atlantic Canadian justice system. The first half of the guide focuses on an overview of the post-colonial experiences of Indigenous people in Atlantic Canada, explores the reasons for Indigenous overrepresentation in the justice system and reviews efforts to reduce this overrepresentation. The second half provides insights into traditional Indigenous views on justice and healing and outlines some of the common ceremonial practices that can be successfully integrated into justice programs.
Published by: Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI - Indigenous Justice Program
Immigrants, Refugees
Atlantic Refugee and Immigrant Services
Atlantic Refugee and Immigrant Services Project (ARIS), Salvation Army
ARIS provides form filling help to refugees and immigrants. They can help with the following applications: Citizenship, Family Class Sponsorship, Travel Documents, and Permanent Resident Documents. They only provide help with Temporary Resident Permits in the case of an Open Work Permit being submitted with a Spousal Sponsorship application, when applicable.
Service is provided at the Spryfield Community Church & Family Resource Centre.
Contact:
- Address: 328 Herring Cove Rd, Halifax, NS B3R 1V4
- Phone: 902-477-5393
- Website: https://salvationarmy.ca/maritime/home/locations/nova-scotia/
Areas of law: Immigration, Refugee law
Halifax Refugee Clinic Advice and Representation
The Halifax Refugee Clinic is a non-profit, non-government organization serving refugee claimants, refugees and people in need of protection in Nova Scotia. They provide free legal and settlement services to refugees who cannot afford the services of private legal counsel.
Contact:
- Address: 5538 Macara St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-422-6736
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: halifaxrefugeeclinic.org/
Area of law: Refugee law
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS)
Provides services to help immigrants settle in NS, as well as refugee resettlement, language training, employment services, business services, community connections, family counselling, and more.
ISANS is able to refer clients to outreach legal services offered at ISANS by:
- Dalhousie's Schulich School of Law Pro Bono: immigration applications
- McInnes Cooper: business law services.
ISANS clients must be referred by ISANS staff to legal services available at ISANS. Arrive 15 minutes earlier to complete an application form and bring two documents-proof of income and ID such as Permanent Resident or citizenship card.
Dalhousie Schulich School of Law pro bono law students provide legal information and assistance with applications for permanent residency, citizenship, sponsorship.
Contact:
- Address: 6960 Mumford Road, Suite 2120, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3L 4P1
- Phone: 902-423-3607 or 1-866-431-6472 (toll free in NS)
- www.isans.ca
Areas of law: Immigration law, Business Law.
Name and gender marker change
Free help with Name and Gender Marker Change process-UNB Imprint Trans ID Clinic
The Imprint Trans ID Clinic at UNB provides free legal information, form-filling services, and referrals in a trans-positive and inclusive space, for folks who wish to change their legal documents to update their name and gender marker and who need help with the forms and processes. Free form-filling services are provided for the following documents:
- Birth Certificate
- Driver's License
- Health card (MSI)
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Passport
- Newcomer documents
- Student ID (Name only)
The clinic serves all clients from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. During the clinic, law students from the University of New Brunswick Faculty of Law assist clients with their legal transition by explaining all necessary steps. Lawyers from McInnes Cooper are on-hand to supervise and assist clients with complicating factors. This service is provided by the University of New Brunsick Faculty of Law chapter of Pro Bono Students Canada, in partnership with Imprint Youth Association and McInnes Cooper.
For more information or to make appointment online for the next free virtual clinic, go to https://unbtransidclinic.wixsite.com/home
Prison law
East Coast Prison Justice Society
East Coast Prison Justice Society is a non-profit organization that acts as a hub for individuals and organizations involved in prison justice advocacy in the Atlantic Provinces. Their work aims to improve conditions for criminalized and incarcerated people through education, research, scholarship and legal support.
Legal Resources: https://www.eastcoastprisonjustice.ca/resources.html
Contact:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ECPJS/
- Email: [email protected]
- Web: www.eastcoastprisonjustice.ca/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Habeas Corpus in Nova Scotia
Habeas Corpus in Nova Scotia: An Accessible Guide (PDF)
An East Coast Prison Justice Society publication, produced in collaboration with the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia and the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton.
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Human Rights Handbook for Prisoners in Provincial Jails
A Handbook for Prisoners in Provincial Jails in Nova Scotia
Published by: Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies with East Coast Prison Justice Society
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Human Rights Handbook for Women Serving Federal Sentences
Human Rights in Action: Handbook for Women Serving Federal Sentences (PDF)
Published by: Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies.
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Elizabeth Fry Societies NS
The Elizabeth Fry Society Mainland Nova Scotia and the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton are community based organizations that address the criminalization of women and girls in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
Elizabeth Fry Society Mainland Nova Scotia
1 Tulip Street
Dartmouth NS
902-454-5041
Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton
12 Cecelia Levatte Crescent
Sydney NS
902-539-6165
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
John Howard Society NS
John Howard Society of Nova Scotia is a provincial organization whose goal is to understand and respond to problems of crime and the criminal justice system.
Contact:
John Howard Society of Nova ScotiaJohn Howard Society of Nova Scotia
541 Sackville Drive, Suite 1
Lower Sackville NS
902-429-6429
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Prison Law Initiative
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on criminal defence law issues. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information, and download their Prison Law Initiative brochure for information about services and areas of prison law covered.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
PATH Legal: Prisoner Advocacy Hub
PATH is a non-profit law firm that provides prison law assistance to its clients. PATH's mandate is to support people who are currently incarcerated with prison law matters and people who have suffered from miscarriage of justice.
Contact:
Website: www.pathlegal.ca
Property law
Land Titles Initiative communities-free legal help to get clear land title
The Land Titles Initiative (LTI) helps residents in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook/Lake Loon, Lincolnville and Sunnyville get clear title to their land at no cost. There are Community Navigators to help all applicants involved in the Land Titles Initiative. Their role is to work directly with residents to help them through the land claims process. There are different ways to get clear land title. The Community Navigators will help you get on the right path and will track the progress on your case. They can also help connect you with other services you may need.
You can call a Community Navigator to ask questions about the status of the title to a parcel within the LTI communities. You do not need to have a land titles claim registered with the LTI. If title is unclear, you may submit an intake application to determine your eligibility for the LTI.
To speak with a Community Navigator or schedule a meeting call toll free: 1-833-424-6100 or email: [email protected]
Renseignements ou conseils juridiques en français
Access Justice Centre
L'Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE)
Pour obtenir de l’information en français ainsi qu’une liste des juristes d’expression française en Nouvelle Écosse, veuillez communiquer avec l’Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE). L’AJEFNE est un organisme à but non lucratif fondé en 1994 pour promouvoir l’accès aux services juridiques pour la population acadienne et francophone de la Nouvelle-Écosse.
- Address: 1741, rue Brunswick, Halifax, Nouvelle-Écosse B3J 3X8
- Téléphone : (902) 433-2085, sans frais : 1-844-250-8471
- www.ajefne.ns.ca/
Cliquez justice
Pour obtenir de l’information en français en ligne, consultez le site web CliquezJustice.ca. CliquezJustice.ca est un portail canadien d’information juridique simplifiée qui aide à comprendre ses droits et obligations pour mieux gérer les situations juridiques du quotidien.
Wills, Power of Attorney, Personal Directives, other estate issues
Make a basic Will for free
Make your Nova Scotia Personal Directive for free
Nova Scotians can make a personal directive using the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia's free online Personal Directive App. You can also download print versions of the information you need to make your Personal Directive.
Go here for more information about making your Personal Directive, and why you need one.
Dalhousie Wills Project
Dalhousie Schulich School of Law Wills Project (activity varies)
When active, the project allows low-income seniors to meet with a lawyer, in the lawyer’s office or at a client’s home within the HRM on request, to get a will, power of attorney, or personal directive done. The project operates during the school year, with a cohort of clients served in the Fall semester and a cohort in the Winter semester. Documents are executed within November and May, depending on the cohort. No client work is done during the Summer. To be eligible for the project, you should have no real property interest (you do not own your home or any land), have an income of less than $25,000 a year, have assets less than $65,000, and should be 65 years of age or older. Criteria are flexible, and those who fall outside the criteria may also use the service if resources permit.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-494-3704
- Email: [email protected]
Areas of law: Draft wills, Power of Attorney, and Personal Directive documents
Youth services
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation for Youth
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides full service representation (start to finish help) to youth between the ages of 12 to 18 on youth criminal justice issues.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel is available for youth in custody and youth at court who do not have a lawyer. Duty Counsel is available 24/7 province-wide for emergency help for youth in police custody (arrested or detained). Available around the province. Contact your local Legal Aid office.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides in-office summary legal advice (brief advice) to anyone between the ages of 12 to 18 on social justice issues, including:
- Tickets (for example: Motor Vehicle Act, Protection of Property Act, Liquor Control Act, Off-Highway Vehicles Act tickets)
- School level or school board issues
- Housing
- License suspensions
- Youth Ombudsman, Department of Community Services or Children and Family Services Act cases where you are a party or have a court date
- Protection of Property Act notices where you are prevented from accessing services
- Family court disputes between your parents or guardians where you have questions or want a voice
- Any other situation where you have a question or need an advocate.
All youth between ages 12 to 18 qualify for this service from Legal Aid, regardless of income. Family income does not matter. Click here for more information about Youth Services offered by Nova Scotia Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: youth criminal law, social justice law
Dalhousie Legal Aid Advice and Representation for Youth
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides legal aid services to youth in trouble with the law. For youth criminal issues you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before being assigned a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Area of law: youth criminal law
Last reviewed: August 2024
Lawyer Referral Service
Our organization's main purpose is to provide information about the law in Nova Scotia. However, we occasionally make referrals to lawyers in private practice through our Lawyer Referral Service.
Lawyers in the Lawyer Referral Service are not free lawyers (not pro bono). They are lawyers in private practice who offer an initial consultation of up to 30 minutes for a fee of no more than $20 plus tax. If you and the lawyer agree to work together, regular fees or fees worked out directly with the lawyer, will be charged after the initial consultation.
Our Lawyer Referral Service is just one way to get a consultation and get started with finding a lawyer. Here are some other ways to find a lawyer in Nova Scotia.
Please read the information below before you contact us for a referral.
How do I request a lawyer referral?
Contact the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia. We will ask you some questions to:
- Confirm that you have a legal problem and whether a lawyer in private practice can help you;
- Determine what type of legal problem you may have;
- Determine whether other resources might help you (for example, Nova Scotia Legal Aid or a community agency); and
- Give you relevant legal information about your problem.
Some of the questions may be personal, but we are asking to assess whether a referral is appropriate and to provide you with helpful legal information.
The service is anonymous and confidential. Our Legal Information Educators are legally trained professionals with diverse skills and knowledge in many areas of law. All of our Legal Information Educators have law degrees. Their main job is public legal education. They may be able to give you legal information to help you take steps toward solving your legal problem.
Are you always able to provide a referral?
No, unfortunately, we cannot always provide a referral.
Our organization's primary purpose is to provide information about the law. We provide referrals when we can, but our Lawyer Referral Service is small, and we are not able to accommodate all referral requests.
Referrals are provided at our discretion and made on a rotation basis, taking the area of law and geographic location into account.
If it is appropriate to provide a lawyer referral, we will do our best to refer you to a private lawyer who does the type of law you need in your part of the province.
If we can't provide a referral, we may offer some suggestions about how to find a lawyer in private practice.
My situation is time-sensitive, can I get a referral?
The Lawyer Referral Service is not intended for time-sensitive situations. We have no knowledge of the lawyer's schedules and cannot offer any assurance that they will be available within any specific time frame.
Due to the extremely high demand for all of our services, we cannot accommodate urgent or time-sensitive requests.
Do the lawyers on the Lawyer Referral Service work for free or for a discounted rate?
Lawyers in the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia's Lawyer Referral Service are not free (pro bono) lawyers.
Lawyer Referral Service members are lawyers in private practice who offer a reduced fee for an initial consultation. For anything more than a consultation, you must work out a fee arrangement directly with the lawyer. This usually means you will be paying the lawyer's regular fees.
We have no control over lawyers' regular fees, we do not track lawyers' fees, and we cannot guarantee that lawyers on the Lawyer Referral Service will offer lower fees than other lawyers.
If you retain a lawyer, be sure you understand the fee arrangement. See How Lawyers Charge for their work for more information.
If I get a referral, what terms and conditions apply to it?
If a referral is appropriate, we will give you contact information for a lawyer on our Lawyer Referral Service. It is up to you to contact the lawyer. Tell the lawyer you were referred by the Legal Information Society's Lawyer Referral Service. The law firm must do a conflict check to ensure they can offer a consultation.
You can connect with the lawyer for up to 30 minutes for a fee of $20 plus tax. Consultations are generally in the lawyer's office, although it is up to the lawyer—in some cases, they may happen remotely (examples: telephone, virtual).
During this initial consultation, you will discuss your problem with the lawyer and get an idea of your options and the costs involved.
Do not expect the lawyer to do legal work for you during the initial consultation. Legal work includes giving a legal opinion or advice, reviewing, interpreting, or drafting documents.
Prepare for your meeting with the lawyer. Review our Guide to a Successful Interview with a Lawyer. 30 minutes can go by quickly, so think about what you want to say. Briefly summarize your legal problem. Take copies of important documents with you, including any court order(s), contracts, financial information (if relevant), etc., so that you can leave copies with the lawyer if you decide to hire them.
The following terms and conditions apply to our referrals:
- A referral from our service is just for a consultation. You do not have to hire the lawyer if you do not want to and the lawyer has no obligation to take your case.
- The lawyer works in private practice. They do not work for our organization. They are a lawyer in the community who has agreed to provide an initial consultation of up to 30 minutes for a discounted rate.
- A referral from our service is not a recommendation. We do not rate lawyers and are not in a position to give recommendations. Again, a referral from us is just for a consultation.
- During the initial consultation, the lawyer is not required to give legal advice or do legal work for you—just discuss the general legal issue(s) and give you an idea of your options and costs.
- We do not know the lawyer's schedule and cannot guarantee that they will be available within any specific time frame.
- We can only provide one referral.
- We cannot guarantee that you will find a lawyer for your case through our Lawyer Referral Service. You may still need to search for a lawyer even after getting a referral from our service.
- We assume no responsibility for any aspect of your case.
Suppose you hire the lawyer after the initial 30-minute consultation, and the lawyer agrees to represent you. In that case, you must work out a fee arrangement directly with the lawyer. This usually means you will be paying the lawyer's regular fees. Be sure you understand the fee arrangement. See How Lawyers Charge for Their Work for more information.
When is the Lawyer Referral Service open?
Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Closed weekends and holidays.
Please note that, unfortunately, we cannot accept messages for return phone calls and we do not offer a call-back option.
What information do we have about the lawyers who are part of the Lawyer Referral Service?
We have the following information:
- Areas of law the lawyer practices.
- Where the lawyer is.
- Fee arrangements the lawyer may consider (e.g. regular fees, contingency fee agreement, limited scope retainer, flat fees, service fee).
- Whether the lawyer may offer in-office, telephone, email, or virtual consultations.
- How long the lawyer has practiced law.
- Whether the lawyer can meet the client where they are instead of at the lawyer's office.
- Whether notary public services are offered.
- Whether the lawyer is a member of the Bar anywhere other than Nova Scotia.
- Whether the lawyer offers service in languages other than English.
Can I get a list of lawyers who are part of the Lawyer Referral Service?
No. We do not provide lists of lawyers. If we can provide a referral, we provide contact info for a single lawyer based on your geographic location and the area of law involved.
Are all Nova Scotia lawyers part of the Lawyer Referral Service?
No. It is voluntary for lawyers to join the Legal Information Society's Lawyer Referral Service.
I contacted the lawyer you referred me to, but it didn't work out. Can I get another referral for the same legal issue?
No. We only give one lawyer referral for the same legal issue. We cannot guarantee that you will find a lawyer for your case through our Lawyer Referral Service. You may still need to engage in a search for a lawyer even after getting a referral from our service.
If the referral we gave you did not work out, go here for information about other ways to find a lawyer and legal help.
I can't afford a lawyer. Where can I get free legal help?
Lawyers in the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia's Lawyer Referral Service are not free (pro bono) lawyers.
Here is a list of free and low-cost legal services in Nova Scotia, or you can contact us by phone, email or live chat for free legal information, and we'll see if we can suggest other sources of help.
Last reviewed: September 2025
Legal Advice vs Legal Information
The difference between information and advice
Information is general. It applies to everyone. Legal information can help you understand:
- general laws and legal processes
- your general legal rights and responsibilities
- when and where to get more legal help, including legal advice.
Advice is tailored. It applies just to you and your situation. Legal advice can help you understand:
- how the law applies to your specific situation
- the best way to act on your legal rights and responsibilities
- the most likely outcome of your case in that lawyer’s opinion.
Legal information can come from lots of different sources, but legal advice can only come from a lawyer.
The line between information and advice
The line between legal information and legal advice is not always clear. If you’re getting legal information from someone, it’s up to them to draw that line and tell you when you need to get a lawyer’s opinion.
Our organization provides legal information, not legal advice. Our staff answer questions about the law, but they are educators whose mission is to educate and inform, not give advice. As a result, there are limits to the nature and number of questions that we can answer.
By law, there are certain things that only a lawyer can do for you in Nova Scotia. For example, only a lawyer can:
- Give legal advice
- Represent you in court
- Represent you in negotiations that affect your legal rights and responsibilities
- Review, select, draft or complete legal documents or agreements that affect your legal rights or responsibilities
- Coach you about what you should say in court or write in a legal document
- Coach you through an entire legal procedure
- Provide you with highly detailed legal information (zooming in) on a specific law, legal issue, or legal process that affects your case.
- Give you a case assessment, for example, by:
- expressing a legal opinion about your case
- telling you what you should do about it
- giving you an estimate of the value of a claim
- or offering a prediction about the outcome of your case
Here is more information about free and low-cost legal help in Nova Scotia.
And here is more information about how to find a lawyer in private practice (a lawyer you would pay).
Mediation
Mediation is a process for resolving conflict. It is an alternative to court.
Mediation is:
- voluntary
- private
- confidential.
The parties have sole control over the outcome. Mediation is often used when parties to a conflict have failed to work the issue out for themselves. Mediation is about cooperative problem-solving.
Mediation is a process that involves a mediator, who is appointed by both parties, to help the parties find common ground and reach a mutually agreeable outcome, if possible. Mediators are neutral, impartial professionals. Mediators do not provide legal advice.
Can Mediation help me solve my problem?
Mediation is a process that allows people in conflict to discuss the situation in a private setting. People with problems, conflicts or disagreements can talk with each other and make decisions about their situation in a supportive environment. Mediation can help people resolve their problems and settle their disputes.
Who can benefit from mediation?
Neighbors, families, parents, community groups, co-workers and people in litigation can benefit from mediation. Mediation can be used for just about every kind of conflict.
What does the mediator do?
The mediator facilitates discussion between people in conflict so they can have the difficult conversations they need to have. The people in conflict can say what they need to say and be heard and hear the other persons as well. Mediation’s greatest value is not only to find solutions to people’s problems but to change how people in conflict behave toward each other: mediators help with this process.
How does mediation work?
It starts with all the parties involved agreeing to try mediation to resolve their problems. The mediator, who does not have decision making authority, may meet with each of the parties before the mediation to gather some information and to explain to the parties what to expect. A date is then set for the mediation. Often one session is all that is required.
What happens during mediation?
Pre-Mediation Stage
This is a stage where a mediator prepares for mediation. It is used to assess the dispute and the parties' willingness to negotiate and to arrange the meetings. At this stage the parties receive information about the process and how to prepare for the first meeting.
Commitment Stage
This is generally a session where the mediator explains to the parties the process and procedures. The parties explain their issues, priorities and hear those of the other party(ies). This is the first opportunity for the parties to learn if there is a willingness to work through the issues in order to reach a settlement. The parties begin to develop a cooperative relationship and some confidence in the mediation process and the mediator.
Negotiation Stage
The parties develop a mutual understanding of the interests underlying the issues and generate possible options for settlement. Where issues of disagreement exist, objective criteria are used as tools of persuasion. The mediator may meet separately with parties (caucus) and have joint sessions. The parties with authority to settle must be part of the negotiations at this stage.
Settlement Stage
Options for settlement are evaluated based on general principles and specific objective standards. Options are evaluated as possible solutions. Outside advice regarding possible solutions is sought. The processes for reaching and documenting agreement are discussed. When all parties are satisfied with the solutions, an agreement outlining the areas of agreement in clear, specific language is prepared.
What are some of the benefits of mediation?
Mediations are private and confidential; the court process is public and not confidential. They do not require forms and people in conflict do not have to follow complicated steps to get to mediation: the court system is all about forms, Rules and processes which can be very complicated for the ordinary person to follow. Mediations are quick, efficient and often much less expensive than court. Because problems can be addressed sooner, the parties are spared the emotional turmoil of ongoing conflict.
Voluntary Participation
Parties who enter into mediation do so freely. They are not forced to negotiate or settle but do so of their own free will.
Timeliness
The parties set their own timelines for the process. It is not controlled by court dates or waiting periods. Normally, the process can be arranged directly, between the parties and a mediator, to be held at a time and place convenient to the parties with little or no delay.
Saves Money
A mediator can normally provide an estimate of the cost of the process at the beginning. Evidence suggests that conflicts handled through mediation are most often much less expensive than the cost of going to court. The ability to choose an informed mediator usually increases the opportunity for cost savings.
Confidentiality
Mediation sessions are held in private and all proceedings are confidential to the mediator and the participating parties. Mediators usually cannot be called upon to give evidence, in any action that may follow the mediation, about any matters that were discussed during the mediation.
Supports the Parties
Parties who reach their own decisions through mediation have more influence on the outcome of their dispute as they remain in control of the decision-making process. This is very different from arbitration or going to court where the decision-making authority is with the arbitrator or judge. The mediator has no decision-making authority and is there to help the parties understand each other.
Practical Solutions
Parties who mediate their conflicts are able to consider the details of implementation. Settlements can be specially tailored to meet the parties’ needs.
Maintains Relationships
Because mediation addresses the parties’ interests and seeks to achieve a win for all involved, the process is non-adversarial compared to going to court. There is a greater likelihood of parties maintaining relationships through a mediation process.
Stopping the Process
As mediation is voluntary it can be stopped by any party at any time and it in no way affects pursuing another option for resolving the conflict.
Is mediation appropriate in abuse cases?
Although mediation is an alternative to court, it is not usually suitable for situations involving abuse, because of the imbalance of power in abusive relationships. It is important in mediation that all parties are able to take part in the process without feeling afraid, intimidated, controlled, pressured or coerced into coming to an "agreement". If there is a history of abuse or violence in the relationship between the parties mediation may in some cases provide an opportunity for further abuse, and may heighten safety risks.
If you are considering mediation it is very important to tell the mediator, and your lawyer (if you have one), about any abuse.
If you are speaking with a mediator to explore whether mediation would be right for you, and they do not ask you questions to screen for abuse or safety concerns, consider a different mediator.
Can my lawyer be our mediator?
How can I find a mediator?
You can find a mediator through:
- ADR Atlantic Institute - find a mediator, arbitrator, or other dispute resolution professional in Atlantic Canada. Members of ADR Atlantic Institute adhere to the Rules and Codes of Conduct & Ethics of the ADR Institute of Canada.
- ADR Canada Connect - find an alternative dispute resolution professional Canada-wide
- Family Mediation Canada - find a family law mediator
- Mediators are also listed in the Yellow Pages under "Mediation-Services" and "Marriage, Family & Individual Counsellors", or look online
- The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia offers a Mediator Referral Service.
More information about mediation
- ADR Institute of Canada: information about various ways to resolve disputes without going to court
- Family Law Nova Scotia: Family Mediation - www.nsfamilylaw.ca/services/court/mediation
- Judicial Mediation at the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal - courts.ns.ca/Appeal_Court/NSCA_mediation_program.htm
Managing Costs
Free and low cost legal help in Nova Scotia
This page provides information about the various free and low-cost legal services offered by different organizations across Nova Scotia.
What services are available depends on the type of legal issue you have, so this page is organized by legal topic.
Click on a legal topic below to learn more.
African Nova Scotian Justice Resources
African Nova Scotian Justice Institute
The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute addresses issues of systemic racism in the justice system while ensuring fair, legal and constitutional treatment of African Nova Scotians and all black people of African descent.
Services may include:
- Monitoring human rights and holding police accountable
- Legal defense for community justice issues
- Supporting African Nova Scotians in court
- Providing alternative justice options for offenders
- A holistic approach to supporting victims
- Supporting through incarceration and reintegration
- Collecting important data and statistics to advocate for change
- Producing/Training on Impact of Race and Culture Assessments
- Various support for African Nova Scotians in conflict with the criminal justice system
- Public education on systemic racism in the justice system.
- Increasing justice awareness among youth
Contact:
- Website: https://www.ansji.ca/
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (902) 492-5619
Land Title's Initiative
The Land Titles Initiative (LTI) helps residents in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook/Lake Loon, Lincolnville and Sunnyville get clear title to their land at no cost. There are Community Navigators to help all applicants involved in the Land Titles Initiative. Their role is to work directly with residents to help them through the land claims process. There are different ways to get clear land title. The Community Navigators will help you get on the right path and will track the progress on your case. They can also help connect you with other services you may need.
You can call a Community Navigator to ask questions about the status of the title to a parcel within the LTI communities. You do not need to have a land titles claim registered with the LTI. If title is unclear, you may submit an intake application to determine your eligibility for the LTI.
To speak with a Community Navigator or schedule a meeting call toll free: 1-833-424-6100 or email: [email protected]
902 ManUp
902 ManUp is a non-profit volunteer organization founded in 2016 in response to the increase in community violence, particularly involving black males. The organization is primarily dedicated to the advancement of all Black Communities within Nova Scotia and has a particular focus on the empowerment of young black males. However, their mandate includes all individuals or groups at risk of marginalization and social and academic exclusion.
Services include:
- violence intervention and prevention initiatives,
- mentorship,
- community outreach,
- professional development
- and more.
Civil law (lawsuits, Supreme Court, Court of Appeal)
Free Legal Clinic: Halifax Law Courts
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Halifax without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Halifax Law Courts may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. Family law issues, except child protection appeals, going before the Court of Appeal also qualify.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law issues in either Court, or family law issues in the Supreme Court Family Division. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer and law student for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic is open most Thursdays between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm in the Law Courts building 1815 Upper Water St., across from the foot of Duke Street. The Clinic area and the courthouse administration office are to the left when you come through the main entrance on the 2nd Floor. Follow the signs or ask at the reception desk.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment, call:
- 902-424-6900 for Supreme Court matters
- 902-424-6937 for Court of Appeal matters
You can also visit the Courts' Website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Sydney Courthouse
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Sydney without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Sydney Courthouse may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law or family law issues in either Court. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria mentioned above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic happens most Fridays, with appointments available at 10:00 am and 11:00 am. The Clinic is on the main floor of the courthouse at 136 Charlotte Street in Sydney. Follow the signs or ask at the reception desk to the right of the main doors.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment:
- call 902-563-3550, or make an appointment in person at the Court Administration office at the Sydney courthouse, 136 Charlotte Street
You can also visit the Courts' website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Truro Courthouse
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Truro without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Truro Supreme Court may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law or family law issues in either Court. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria mentioned above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic happens the first and third Friday of the month, Jan-June, Sept-Nov, except holidays. Appointments are available at 9 am, 10 am, and 11 am. The Clinic is at the Truro Supreme Court, 1 Church Street, Truro.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment:
- call 902-893-3953, or make an appointment in person at the Supreme Court Administration Office, Lower Floor, 1 Church Street, through the Prothonotary's Office.
You can also visit the Courts' website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Yarmouth Court
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Yarmouth without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Yarmouth Courthouse may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. Family law issues, except child protection appeals, going before the Court of Appeal also qualify.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law issues in either Court, or family law issues in the Supreme Court Family Division. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a free 60 minute session. Appointments are available at 9, 10, and 11 a.m. on the first and third Fridays of the month, except on holidays.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must fill out an application and schedule an appointment. People with close court dates get priority.
To make an appointment:
Appointments can be arranged in person at the Court Administration office at the Yarmouth courthouse, 164 Main Street. Ask for Court Administrator, Jean Brown. You can also make appointments by phone by calling 902-742-0580.
Visit the Courts' Website for more information.
Area of law: Civil
Free Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors
The Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors Program provides up to 4 hours of free, independent legal advice for sexual assault survivors who are 16 years of age or older. You do not have to report to police or take legal action if you use this service.
Registration is done through an independent agency, 211 Nova Scotia. Dial 2-1-1 for intake. Go to novascotia.ca/sexualassaultlegaladvice/ for more information.
Areas of law: Criminal, Civil
Free Legal Support for Surviviors or Workplace Sexual Harassment
Get free legal information help available at Legal Information Line (1-800-665-9779) or 902-455-3135, Livechat, and email: [email protected].
If you have experienced or have been affected by workplace sexual harassment, we can provide you legal support. Your questions can be answered with this free confidential legal service.
You can contact us for a confidential referral using one of the following options:
Fill out the information below
Or send us an email at
[email protected]
Or telephone, toll free anywhere in Nova Scotia, at
833-407-3600.
If you call, please leave a message telling us how to reach you and if it is safe to leave a return message when we call you back.
Common Questions about the Free Legal Advice Service
Is this service confidential?
Yes. We collect only the information we need to set up a meeting with a navigator or lawyer. We may ask you for an email address so we can send you a survey that will help us understand how to improve our program. The survey is optional and completely anonymous.
The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia will share some statistics with our funder, the federal Department of Justice. They will want to know how often Nova Scotians use the program and what part of the province they live in. The information we share will not identify anyone using the program.
What can I expect?
When you reach out to us, we will ask for some information: Email, phone number, employer, location, and a brief summary of your story. Once we receive this information we will connect you with one of our legally-trained navigators. Our navigators are trained to help you take the right action to deal with what has happened at your workplace. They are also trained to work with clients who may feel traumatized.
In your conversation, the Navigators will tell you about your rights and ways you can deal with what is happening at work. Everyone’s situation is different, and the Navigator will answer questions and provide guidance about your work situation and experience.
If the situation required additional supports, we may reach out to a volunteer Lawyer on our roster for additional supports and assistance.
You and the Navigator may use your four hours in the way that works best for you. For example, your first meeting might be two hours, and you might have another appointment later on.
You might not need four hours of legal support. If your issue is complex, you might feel that you need more than four hours. If you need more time, phone or email us and we will do our best to help.
Is there a cost?
No. Your can get up to for hours of free legal support. You might not need four hours of legal support. If your issue is complex, you might feel that you need more than four hours. If you need more time, phone or email us and we will do our best to help.
Do I have to take legal action if I get your support?
You are in control, and what you do next is entirely up to you.
For some people, taking legal action to deal with a sensitive matter can be overwhelming. You may take any of the steps or options that the lawyer tells you about, or you may do nothing. Our program aims to help you better understand your options so that you can make the choices and take the actions that are best for you.
I want a referral. What are the next steps?
If you have experienced workplace sexual harassment and need support, please either use the phone number or email address above, or fill out the form with your name, email, phone number, employer and where you are in Nova Scotia, and send to us. When you submit your information it will be sent to our Program Coordinator, who will be in touch to arrange a referral for you. We do our best to follow up within 48 hours.
When we respond, we will request that you provide us with a brief summary. This is to ensure that we match you with the most appropriate person to provide you the support you need. Please note: a brief summary is required to be matched.
We do need either a phone number or an email address to arrange a referral for you. You can give us either, or both. If you are comfortable providing an email address, we would be grateful so that in addition to arranging a referral we can also send you a feedback survey to help us improve our program.
We ask for your location so, if we need to connect you with a lawyer for further legal support, we can refer you to a lawyer in your community whenever possible and they can perform an accurate conflict of interest check.
When you disclose this information to us, it will be used solely by the LISNS Workplace Sexual Harassment Project team to help us match you with the appropriate supports, and understand how and where workplace sexual harassment is affecting Nova Scotians.
Conflict Check: Please note that if you see a lawyer through our referral program, the lawyer or administrative staff at the law firm will complete a conflict check. Don't worry: this is a standard practice at law firms. A lawyer can't give you advice if someone at their firm is already representing the other side on any kind of legal issue. If a law firm has a conflict, our Program Coordinator will work to find an alternative solution, such as different lawyer.
The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia is a free service that gives you information about the law and your rights and responsibilities. The Government of Canada, through the Department of Justice, graciously funds the pdf Workplace Sexual Harassment Legal Advice Program.(308 KB)
Copyright, Trademarks, Patents
Canadian Intellectual Property Office
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office is a federal government office that provides legal information and services on trademarks, patents, copyright, industrial designs and integrated circuit topographies.
Contact:
- Phone: 1-866-997-1936
- Website: cipo.ic.gc.ca
Areas of law: Intellectual Property.
Criminal law (see also: Prison law)
Free Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors
The Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors Program provides up to 4 hours of free, independent legal advice for sexual assault survivors who are 16 years of age or older. You do not have to report to police or take legal action if you use this service.
Registration is done through an independent agency, 211 Nova Scotia. Dial 2-1-1 for intake. Go to novascotia.ca/sexualassaultlegaladvice/ for more information.
Areas of law: Criminal, Civil
Help with Applying for a Peace Bond
Halifax Regional Police Victim Services Help with Applying for a Peace Bond
Individuals who wish to apply for a peace bond through the Provincial Court in Halifax and Dartmouth can get support from Halifax Regional Police (HRP) Victim Services. Victim Services volunteers will provide potential and current applicants with information on the application process, assistance to complete the application forms and ongoing emotional support. Contact HRP Victim Services at 902-490-5300 for more information about the Peace Bond Navigator program.
Peace bond help from Nova Scotia Legal Aid
Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) is committed to helping people applying for peace bond orders. NSLA Staff Lawyers can help by explaining the steps required to begin a peace bond application and then explaining the court process. If you are seeking assistance to apply for a peace bond order, you can contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid at 902-420-7800 or apply online. A lawyer will contact you and provide you with confidential advice and assistance.
Click here for Legal Information about Peace Bonds and how to apply for one
Area of law: Criminal
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on criminal defence law issues. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information, and go here for information about services and areas of criminal law covered.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel for all Nova Scotians facing criminal or drug charges
Help from Duty Counsel lawyers is available to all Nova Scotians facing criminal or drug charges.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel is available for:
- free, summary (brief) legal advice at court for those who do not have a lawyer
- youth and adults in custody (Criminal Law, court appearance at Bail Hearing)
- Emergency legal advice by telephone is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, province-wide, if you have been arrested or detained by police
Contact:
- Your local courthouse or Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/ or contact the court
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: Adult and youth criminal law
Mi'kmaq Legal Support Network
The Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network provides legal support services and victim support services to Indigenous people in Nova Scotia, particularly through the Mi'kmaw Court Worker Program and the Mi'kmaw Customary Law Program.
Contact:
- Phone:
- Cape Breton: 902-379-2042
- Dartmouth: 902-468-0381
- Truro: 902-895-1141
- Toll-free: 1-877-379-2042
Area of law: Criminal law
Debt and credit issues
Bankruptcy Assistance Program-Superintendent of Bankruptcy
If you are considering bankruptcy, you'll need the help of a licensed professional who administers the bankruptcy process, called a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT). Licensed Insolvency Trustees are licensed by the federal Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy.
If you are unable to get an LIT to accept your file, or if you cannot afford to hire an LIT, the Bankruptcy Assistance Program may be able to help if you:
- have contacted at least two LITs and tried to obtain their services
- are not, and have not recently been, involved in commercial activities
- are not required to make surplus income payments; and
- are not in jail.
Contact:
- Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada
- Phone: 1-877-376-9902
- Website: osb.ic.gc.ca
Areas of law: Credit and debt law, Bankruptcy law
Credit Counselling
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada:
https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/debt/debt-help.html: Information about how a credit counsellor can help you deal with debt, and how to find a trustworthy, qualified credit counselling service near you.
The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada has lots of free information about your options for managing debt.
Debtor Assistance Program, Service Nova Scotia
Note: as of July 2022 this program is on hiatus. Please check with Access Nova Scotia to find out if the program has started again.
The Debtor Assistance Program helps people experiencing financial difficulty deal with their creditors. You can meet with a licensed administrator who will review your situation and discuss options. If appropriate, administrators can file consumer proposals under the federal Bankruptcy Act. A consumer proposal is a debt repayment plan that avoids bankruptcy and is legally binding on creditors, if accepted. Administrators cannot file bankruptcy applications (you need a licensed insolvency trustee for that).
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or toll free 1-800-670-4357 or visit your local Access Nova Scotia office
- Website: novascotia.ca/sns/access/individuals/debtor-assistance.asp
Nova Scotia Legal Aid
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides a wide variety of services and programs to economically vulnerable Nova Scotians.
To get start-to-finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Free legal information and brief (summary) legal advice may be available for debt issues. It is important to contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid and fill out an application to see what help they can provide.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Credit and debt
Employment, Employment Insurance, Workers’ Compensation
Labour Standards Nova Scotia
Labour Standards Division, NS Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration
The Nova Scotia Labour Standards Code applies to employers, employees, and recruiters. There are also rules for the recruitment of workers and the hiring of foreign workers. The Labour Standards Division addresses questions and complaints from the public about how the provincial Labour Standards Code applies to specific employment situations. Complaints about potential violations of the Labour Standards Code generally must be filed within 6 months of the issue or incident occurring. If you file a complaint, an officer will try to settle the dispute and, if the dispute does not settle, will investigate and issue a formal decision, if necessary.
Labour Standards also has an online Guide to the Nova Scotia Labour Standards Code
Contact:
- Address: 1505 Barrington Street, 3rd Floor North, Halifax B3J 3K5
- Phone: 902-424-4311 or 1-888-315-0110 (toll-free in NS)
- Website: novascotia.ca/lae/employmentrights/
Labour Standards Division,NS Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration
Area of law: Employment law
Employment Insurance Appeals
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides information, advice and representation about Employment Insurance Appeals. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Legal Aid for information about help with an Employment Insurance issue.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about Employment Insurance Appeals
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Administrative law, Employment Insurance
Free legal services for Workers' Compensation issues
Workers' Advisers Program Nova Scotia
This Workers' Advisers Program offers legal services to eligible injured workers and their families, who are seeking compensation under Nova Scotia's Workers’ Compensation Act. Services are offered at all levels of appeals, including at Court in special cases. In general, in order to qualify for services, an injured worker must have a reasonable expectation of success in obtaining at least $500, or the equivalent, in an appeal from a Workers' Compensation Board written decision. The legal services are provided independently of the Workers’ Compensation Board and the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Tribunal. Clients of the program are in a solicitor/client relationship with the program and its staff, in the same way as they would be with any other lawyer or law firm in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
- Address:
- Halifax: 502–5670 Spring Garden Road Halifax, NS B3J 2X1
- Sydney: 5–1030 Upper Prince Street Sydney, NS B1P 5P6
- Phone (voice & TTY): 1-800-774-4712 (Halifax office) or 1-800-890-6786 (Sydney office)
- Website: novascotia.ca/lae/wap/
Area of law: Workers' Compensation
Information, advocacy, support on Workers' Compensation issues
Office of the Worker Counsellor
The Office of the Worker Counsellor offers information, advice, education and advocacy for injured workers, their representatives in the workplace and their family members on all aspects of workers’ compensation in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
- Address: Suite 220-3700 Kempt Road, Halifax, NS
- Phone : 902-455-5455 or 1 877-220-2722
- Website: workercounsellor.ca
Area of law: Workers' Compensation, Administrative law
Employment Law Legal Information-Halifax Workers' Action Centre
The Workers’ Action Centre helps non-unionized workers with labour standards issues, unpaid wages, terminations, workplace discrimination, and more. They provide free, one-on-one legal information sessions to low-wage and marginalized, non-unionized workers.
Contact:
- Website: halifaxwac.ca
- To schedule an appointment call (902) 221-0755 or email [email protected]
Area of law: Employment law
Environmental
East Coast Environmental Law
East Coast Environmental Law (ECELAW) is a non-profit organization that envisions a clean, healthy environment that is protected by the fair application of strong environmental laws. ECELAW was founded in 2007 with a mission to provide public access to environmental law information and advice, to promote the development and equitable application of progressive environmental laws, and to assist in the development of the next generation of lawyers who are committed to using the law to achieve environmental protection and sustainability. ECELAW provides a public inquiry service, partners with other environmental organizations, holds workshops, publishes citizen guides and research papers, and mentors environmental law students.
Contact:
• Phone: 902-494-7121 (Environmental law Inquiry Service)
• Website: www.ecelaw.ca
Areas of law: Environmental law; Aboriginal and Indigenous law in environmental contexts.
Family law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on family law issues, including child protection, custody, parenting time, child and spousal support, separation and divorce.
Some level of help is available to all Nova Scotians on family law issues. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: Family Law
Free Brief Legal Advice at Family Courts
Summary Advice Counsel at Family Courts
The Summary Advice Counsel is a lawyer who assists people who need legal advice on a family law matter, but who do not have a lawyer. The Summary Advice lawyer provides basic legal advice, free of charge, regardless of how much you make or where you get your income.
This service is available throughout Nova Scotia. Your case or issue must be somehow related to the court where the Summary Advice lawyer is located. For example, if you are making an application to the court in Halifax, you should book an appointment with the lawyer in Halifax.
The purpose of the Summary Advice Counsel service is to give people a better understanding of their legal rights and responsibilities. The Summary Advice lawyer can give basic information about legal terms, how to start or respond to a court application, court processes, legal documents, and other aspects of family law.
The Summary Advice lawyer can give advice on parenting arrangements, child support and spousal support, property division, divorce, and most other family law matters and court processes.
The Summary Advice lawyer does not provide advice to parents involved in child protection matters, or for matters involving Mi’kmaw Family Services. The Summary Advice lawyer may provide advice to a non-party to a child protection matter. For example, if you are not directly involved with a child protection proceeding and are applying for decision-making responsibility for, or contact with, the children involved.
The Summary Advice lawyer does not go to court with you. For more information about this service, click here.
You can contact your local Summary Advice lawyer to book an appointment by calling the appropriate number below:
|
Annapolis |
902-742-0500 |
Pictou |
902-485-7350 |
|
Antigonish |
902-863-7312 |
Port Hawkesbury |
902-625-2665 |
|
Amherst |
902-667-2256 |
Sydney |
902-563-2085 |
|
Bridgewater |
902-543-4679 |
Truro |
902-893-5840 |
|
Halifax |
902-424-5616 |
Windsor |
902-679-6075 |
|
Kentville |
902-679-6075 |
Yarmouth |
902-742-0500 |
Area of law: Family Law
Dalhousie Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides legal aid services to Nova Scotians who have a lower income and who would otherwise be unable to obtain legal advice. Generally, for family law issues you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before being assigned a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Area of law: Family law
General
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Information, Advice, Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid offers legal information, legal advice and representation. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must fill out an application and meet income and area of law requirements.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid only provides lawyers for certain types of law, generally Family Law, Criminal Law, and Social Justice, which includes Income assistance, Residential tenancies (tenant rights), CPP disability, and EI - Employment Insurance, Prison Law, Adult Capacity and Decision-making, Involuntary Psychiatric Treatment, Adult Protection.
Go to nslegalaid.ca for more information about available services and areas of law covered.
Youth qualify for services independently of their family.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Dalhousie Legal Aid Services
Dalhousie Legal Aid Service is a community legal clinic that provides legal aid services to people otherwise unable to obtain legal advice.
Generally, you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before getting a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid for family law or youth criminal law issues. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid directly about legal issues for people with low incomes, such as income assistance, tenant rights, human rights complaints, police complaints, mental health law issues, and disputes with Nova Scotia Power. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid for details about services and areas of law covered.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St., Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Lawyers in private practice: flexible fee options
Here are some things to ask about if you are looking for a lawyer in private practice and cost is an issue:
- can you help me with just part of my case? Lawyers call this a "Limited Scope Retainer" or "unbundled" services
- do you offer coaching for people who are representing themselves? Coaching is basically out-of-court strategic support
- do you charge a flat fee for this type of work?
- will you consider a contingency fee agreement?
- what is your hourly rate?
- can the lawyer wait to get paid once you get the money you are seeking (for example, spousal support, matrimonial property division)
- do you offer any pro bono (free) help?
Get more information about Finding a lawyer, and How lawyers charge for their work.
Housing
Dalhousie Legal Aid Tenant Rights Advice
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides free information, advice and representation to tenants on Residential Tenancies and low income housing issues. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid for details.
Download Dalhousie Legal Aid's Tenant Rights Guides
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Areas of law: Residential tenancies (Tenant rights), Administrative law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Tenant Rights Advice
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides free legal information, advice and representation on Residential Tenancies issues for tenants. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about tenant rights
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Residential tenancies (Tenant rights), Administrative law
Residential Tenancies (Service Nova Scotia)
Residential Tenancies (Service Nova Scotia)
The Residential Tenancies program, part of Service Nova Scotia, is the Nova Scotia government office that deals with residential landlord and tenant disputes. The Residential Tenancies program helps landlords and tenants understand their rights, and exercise those rights when necessary. They offer a range of services, including dispute resolution, residential tenancies forms and information booklets for both landlords and tenants.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or 1-800-670-4357
TTY: 1-877-404-0867 - In-person: Access Nova Scotia locations province-wide
- Website: novascotia.ca/sns/access/land/residential-tenancies.asp
Area of law: Residential Tenancies, for Landlords and Tenants
Condominium Dispute Resolution (Service Nova Scotia)
Service Nova Scotia: Condominium Dispute Resolution
Service Nova Scotia offers information about condominium ownership, how condominium corporations are operated, what costs are involved in condominium ownership, and what to watch for when buying a new or existing condominium.
They also offer ways for resolving disputes between condominium owners and condominium corporations - dispute resolution for minor disputes, and arbitration for other issues. There is a $124.60 fee to apply for dispute resolution.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or 1-800-670-4357
TTY: 1-877-404-0867 - In-person: Access Nova Scotia locations province-wide
- Website:novascotia.ca/sns/access/
Area of law: Condominium law
Income Assistance (Welfare)
Dalhousie Legal Aid Income Assistance Advice
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides free information, advice and representation to low income Nova Scotians on income assistance issues.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Areas of law: Income Assistance, Administrative law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Income Assistance Advice
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides free legal information, advice and representation on income assistance issues for low income Nova Scotians. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Youth qualify for services independently of their family.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about Income Assistance
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Income assistance, Administrative law
Indigenous Justice Services and Information
The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq
The mission of The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq (CMM) is to proactively promote and assist Mi’kmaw communities’ initiatives toward self determination and enhancement of community. The CMM has a number of plain language public legal education materials to help the Mi’kmaq understand their rights and responsibilities under the law, including:
- Mi’kmaq Wills Package: For Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq, which includes
1. Book One: How to Write a Will
2. Book Two: How to Settle an Estate
3. Book Three: How to Write a Power of Attorney and Personal Directive
4. Mi'kmaq Wills and Estates & Matrimonial Real Property
Copies are located in band offices of The CMM's member bands or can be found online at cmmns.com/program/wills-estates
They also have publications on other topics, such as:
- Emergency Protection Orders
- Exclusive Occupation Orders
- Mi’kmaw Matrimonial Real Property: A Guide for Bear River, Millbrook, Paqtnkek, Pictou Landing, and Sipekne'katik
You can find these publications, and others, in the resources section of their website.
Contact:
Address: 57 Martin Crescent Truro, NS B2N 6N7
Phone: 902-895-6385 or 1-877-892-2424
Website: cmmns.com
Areas of law: Wills and Estates law, Family law
Mi'kmaq Legal Support Network
The Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network provides legal support services and victim support services to Indigenous people in Nova Scotia, particularly through the Mi'kmaw Court Worker Program and the Mi'kmaw Customary Law Program.
Contact:
- Phone:
- Cape Breton: 902-379-2042
- Dartmouth: 902-468-0381
- Truro: 902-895-1141
- Toll-free: 1-877-379-2042
Area of law: Criminal law, including victim support
Indigenous Justice Initiative, Nova Scotia Legal Aid
This program offers services to Indigenous peoples and communities, both on and off reserve. Outreach services in and near Indigenous communities is offered in Indian Brook, Paq'tnkek, Wagmatcook, We'koqma'q, Potlokek, Eskasoni. Outreach is also provided at the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax. Indigenous lawyers are available in Dartmouth, Windsor, Sydney, Millbrook, Bridgewater, and Yarmouth.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
- Nova Scotia Legal Aid - Indigenous Justice Information and Resources
Areas of law: Family Law, Criminal Law, and Social Justice (income assistance, residential tenancies, CPP disability, EI)
Resource Guide for people who work with Indigenous Clients in the Atlantic Canadian Justice System
Bringing Balance to the Scales of Justice: Fulfilling Our Responsibility to Indigenous People involved in the Justice System (2018)
A resource guide that provides a general introduction to justice issues for people who work with Indigenous clients in the Atlantic Canadian justice system. The first half of the guide focuses on an overview of the post-colonial experiences of Indigenous people in Atlantic Canada, explores the reasons for Indigenous overrepresentation in the justice system and reviews efforts to reduce this overrepresentation. The second half provides insights into traditional Indigenous views on justice and healing and outlines some of the common ceremonial practices that can be successfully integrated into justice programs.
Published by: Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI - Indigenous Justice Program
Immigrants, Refugees
Atlantic Refugee and Immigrant Services
Atlantic Refugee and Immigrant Services Project (ARIS), Salvation Army
ARIS provides form filling help to refugees and immigrants. They can help with the following applications: Citizenship, Family Class Sponsorship, Travel Documents, and Permanent Resident Documents. They only provide help with Temporary Resident Permits in the case of an Open Work Permit being submitted with a Spousal Sponsorship application, when applicable.
Service is provided at the Spryfield Community Church & Family Resource Centre.
Contact:
- Address: 328 Herring Cove Rd, Halifax, NS B3R 1V4
- Phone: 902-477-5393
- Website: https://salvationarmy.ca/maritime/home/locations/nova-scotia/
Areas of law: Immigration, Refugee law
Halifax Refugee Clinic Advice and Representation
The Halifax Refugee Clinic is a non-profit, non-government organization serving refugee claimants, refugees and people in need of protection in Nova Scotia. They provide free legal and settlement services to refugees who cannot afford the services of private legal counsel.
Contact:
- Address: 5538 Macara St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-422-6736
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: halifaxrefugeeclinic.org/
Area of law: Refugee law
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS)
Provides services to help immigrants settle in NS, as well as refugee resettlement, language training, employment services, business services, community connections, family counselling, and more.
ISANS is able to refer clients to outreach legal services offered at ISANS by:
- Dalhousie's Schulich School of Law Pro Bono: immigration applications
- McInnes Cooper: business law services.
ISANS clients must be referred by ISANS staff to legal services available at ISANS. Arrive 15 minutes earlier to complete an application form and bring two documents-proof of income and ID such as Permanent Resident or citizenship card.
Dalhousie Schulich School of Law pro bono law students provide legal information and assistance with applications for permanent residency, citizenship, sponsorship.
Contact:
- Address: 6960 Mumford Road, Suite 2120, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3L 4P1
- Phone: 902-423-3607 or 1-866-431-6472 (toll free in NS)
- www.isans.ca
Areas of law: Immigration law, Business Law.
Name and gender marker change
Free help with Name and Gender Marker Change process-UNB Imprint Trans ID Clinic
The Imprint Trans ID Clinic at UNB provides free legal information, form-filling services, and referrals in a trans-positive and inclusive space, for folks who wish to change their legal documents to update their name and gender marker and who need help with the forms and processes. Free form-filling services are provided for the following documents:
- Birth Certificate
- Driver's License
- Health card (MSI)
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Passport
- Newcomer documents
- Student ID (Name only)
The clinic serves all clients from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. During the clinic, law students from the University of New Brunswick Faculty of Law assist clients with their legal transition by explaining all necessary steps. Lawyers from McInnes Cooper are on-hand to supervise and assist clients with complicating factors. This service is provided by the University of New Brunsick Faculty of Law chapter of Pro Bono Students Canada, in partnership with Imprint Youth Association and McInnes Cooper.
For more information or to make appointment online for the next free virtual clinic, go to https://unbtransidclinic.wixsite.com/home
Prison law
East Coast Prison Justice Society
East Coast Prison Justice Society is a non-profit organization that acts as a hub for individuals and organizations involved in prison justice advocacy in the Atlantic Provinces. Their work aims to improve conditions for criminalized and incarcerated people through education, research, scholarship and legal support.
Legal Resources: https://www.eastcoastprisonjustice.ca/resources.html
Contact:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ECPJS/
- Email: [email protected]
- Web: www.eastcoastprisonjustice.ca/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Habeas Corpus in Nova Scotia
Habeas Corpus in Nova Scotia: An Accessible Guide (PDF)
An East Coast Prison Justice Society publication, produced in collaboration with the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia and the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton.
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Human Rights Handbook for Prisoners in Provincial Jails
A Handbook for Prisoners in Provincial Jails in Nova Scotia
Published by: Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies with East Coast Prison Justice Society
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Human Rights Handbook for Women Serving Federal Sentences
Human Rights in Action: Handbook for Women Serving Federal Sentences (PDF)
Published by: Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies.
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Elizabeth Fry Societies NS
The Elizabeth Fry Society Mainland Nova Scotia and the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton are community based organizations that address the criminalization of women and girls in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
Elizabeth Fry Society Mainland Nova Scotia
1 Tulip Street
Dartmouth NS
902-454-5041
Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton
12 Cecelia Levatte Crescent
Sydney NS
902-539-6165
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
John Howard Society NS
John Howard Society of Nova Scotia is a provincial organization whose goal is to understand and respond to problems of crime and the criminal justice system.
Contact:
John Howard Society of Nova ScotiaJohn Howard Society of Nova Scotia
541 Sackville Drive, Suite 1
Lower Sackville NS
902-429-6429
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Prison Law Initiative
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on criminal defence law issues. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information, and download their Prison Law Initiative brochure for information about services and areas of prison law covered.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
PATH Legal: Prisoner Advocacy Hub
PATH is a non-profit law firm that provides prison law assistance to its clients. PATH's mandate is to support people who are currently incarcerated with prison law matters and people who have suffered from miscarriage of justice.
Contact:
Website: www.pathlegal.ca
Property law
Land Titles Initiative communities-free legal help to get clear land title
The Land Titles Initiative (LTI) helps residents in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook/Lake Loon, Lincolnville and Sunnyville get clear title to their land at no cost. There are Community Navigators to help all applicants involved in the Land Titles Initiative. Their role is to work directly with residents to help them through the land claims process. There are different ways to get clear land title. The Community Navigators will help you get on the right path and will track the progress on your case. They can also help connect you with other services you may need.
You can call a Community Navigator to ask questions about the status of the title to a parcel within the LTI communities. You do not need to have a land titles claim registered with the LTI. If title is unclear, you may submit an intake application to determine your eligibility for the LTI.
To speak with a Community Navigator or schedule a meeting call toll free: 1-833-424-6100 or email: [email protected]
Renseignements ou conseils juridiques en français
Access Justice Centre
L'Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE)
Pour obtenir de l’information en français ainsi qu’une liste des juristes d’expression française en Nouvelle Écosse, veuillez communiquer avec l’Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE). L’AJEFNE est un organisme à but non lucratif fondé en 1994 pour promouvoir l’accès aux services juridiques pour la population acadienne et francophone de la Nouvelle-Écosse.
- Address: 1741, rue Brunswick, Halifax, Nouvelle-Écosse B3J 3X8
- Téléphone : (902) 433-2085, sans frais : 1-844-250-8471
- www.ajefne.ns.ca/
Cliquez justice
Pour obtenir de l’information en français en ligne, consultez le site web CliquezJustice.ca. CliquezJustice.ca est un portail canadien d’information juridique simplifiée qui aide à comprendre ses droits et obligations pour mieux gérer les situations juridiques du quotidien.
Wills, Power of Attorney, Personal Directives, other estate issues
Make a basic Will for free
Make your Nova Scotia Personal Directive for free
Nova Scotians can make a personal directive using the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia's free online Personal Directive App. You can also download print versions of the information you need to make your Personal Directive.
Go here for more information about making your Personal Directive, and why you need one.
Dalhousie Wills Project
Dalhousie Schulich School of Law Wills Project (activity varies)
When active, the project allows low-income seniors to meet with a lawyer, in the lawyer’s office or at a client’s home within the HRM on request, to get a will, power of attorney, or personal directive done. The project operates during the school year, with a cohort of clients served in the Fall semester and a cohort in the Winter semester. Documents are executed within November and May, depending on the cohort. No client work is done during the Summer. To be eligible for the project, you should have no real property interest (you do not own your home or any land), have an income of less than $25,000 a year, have assets less than $65,000, and should be 65 years of age or older. Criteria are flexible, and those who fall outside the criteria may also use the service if resources permit.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-494-3704
- Email: [email protected]
Areas of law: Draft wills, Power of Attorney, and Personal Directive documents
Youth services
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation for Youth
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides full service representation (start to finish help) to youth between the ages of 12 to 18 on youth criminal justice issues.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel is available for youth in custody and youth at court who do not have a lawyer. Duty Counsel is available 24/7 province-wide for emergency help for youth in police custody (arrested or detained). Available around the province. Contact your local Legal Aid office.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides in-office summary legal advice (brief advice) to anyone between the ages of 12 to 18 on social justice issues, including:
- Tickets (for example: Motor Vehicle Act, Protection of Property Act, Liquor Control Act, Off-Highway Vehicles Act tickets)
- School level or school board issues
- Housing
- License suspensions
- Youth Ombudsman, Department of Community Services or Children and Family Services Act cases where you are a party or have a court date
- Protection of Property Act notices where you are prevented from accessing services
- Family court disputes between your parents or guardians where you have questions or want a voice
- Any other situation where you have a question or need an advocate.
All youth between ages 12 to 18 qualify for this service from Legal Aid, regardless of income. Family income does not matter. Click here for more information about Youth Services offered by Nova Scotia Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: youth criminal law, social justice law
Dalhousie Legal Aid Advice and Representation for Youth
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides legal aid services to youth in trouble with the law. For youth criminal issues you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before being assigned a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Area of law: youth criminal law
Last reviewed: August 2024
Guide to a successful interview with a lawyer
This information will help you prepare for a first interview with a lawyer.
Introduction
This guide describes 4 steps to take before you see a lawyer. Before you see your lawyer, try to organize all your important information or documents so you and your lawyer can make the best use of your time together and focus on the legal parts of your problem.
This guide provides general information on preparing for an appointment with a lawyer. It does not explain the law. Legal advice must come from a lawyer, who can tell you why you should do something in your case or whether you should take certain actions.
The better prepared you are for the interview, the better advice the lawyer can give you.
Step 1: Fill out the Information Sheet
Fill out the Information Sheet.
Take the Information Sheet with you to the interview.
If there are other important names and addresses the lawyer should be aware of, put them in too. If your problem has a file or case number, include that as well.
If possible, print or type your Information Sheet.
Step 2: Prepare your Documents List
Take all letters and documents about your legal problem to the interview. If you are in doubt about an item, take it anyway. Next, put the documents in order according to their dates.
Click here for a document list that you can use to list the documents, including letters you have. For example, include documents:
- you prepared
- you got from the court
- you have been served.
If you have little Post-It notes, write the document number on one. Attach the Post-It note to each document to correspond to the Document List.
Step 3: Prepare your written statement
Write your story in point form and in the order of dates and times they happened. This is your written statement. Put in all the facts that you consider important. Be specific about dates and who said what. When you write out your story, it should not be more than two pages. This will force you to focus on the important points.
Take the written statement with you to the interview. It will help refresh your memory when you are talking to the lawyer.
Tell the lawyer if you have difficulty reading or writing.
If you have questions you want to ask the lawyer, write them out and take them with you. Put them in order of importance to you. It’s easy to forget the questions if you don’t write them down. The lawyer will want to know all the details.
The lawyer will want to know:
- Exact dates, if possible.
- Who said what to whom – the exact words, not a summary.
- Who was there during the conversations, and how long the conversations lasted?
Important: The lawyer needs to know all the details, good and bad, about your case. If you are completely frank, the lawyer will be in the best position to handle your problem and advise you on it. Your lawyer is not there to judge you and can't give you good advice without knowing all the facts.
Step 4: Going to the interview
There are four “S’s” to a successful interview with a lawyer:
- slow,
- straightforward,
- specific, and
- systematic.
1. Slow
People tend to talk too fast in a lawyer interview. This is natural. Many of us are nervous when we have to see a lawyer. We want to tell all.
Think about it this way: hearing your story is like eating dinner. If the lawyer is eating too fast, they won’t be able to digest it properly. If you tell your story slowly, this gives the lawyer time to digest and understand your story. If you talk slowly, you give the lawyer time to ask questions. You will avoid missing important facts.
2. Straightforward
All of us want to be seen in a good light. When talking to others, we usually emphasize the favourable things about ourselves. There is nothing wrong with this. It helps us all get along. However, when you’re talking to a lawyer, things are different.
You need to give the lawyer both good and bad information. If you did something wrong, admit it to the lawyer. The opposing party will likely bring it to their attention later anyway.
The lawyer needs to know good and bad information at the beginning. That will help the lawyer give you good advice and save time and money in the long run. Unless the lawyer knows everything, they cannot give you good advice.
Here’s a situation that illustrates the point. It’s about a person who was fired for being late for work. He does not want to answer the lawyer’s question.
Q. Were you late for work on March 13, 2015?
A. Late! You should talk to Margo Smith. She is never on time. She gets away with murder.
Q. But on March 13, 2015, were you late?
A. Is it my fault there was a car accident on the Port Mann Bridge? These things happen!
Q. On Mar 13, 2015, were you on time for work? (FIRM VOICE)
A. Don’t you listen? I’ve explained that! (LOUD VOICE)
The lawyer asked the person, “Were you late for work?” But the person did not answer the question. Instead, they gave excuses for being late. This uses up time at the interview.
A good exchange goes like this:
Q. Were you late for work on March 13, 2015?
A. Yes!
Q. What was the reason?
A. There was a car accident on the Port Mann Bridge. I was stuck in traffic for thirty minutes.
Q. Were you ever late before?
A. No.
Q. Were other people ever fired for lateness?
A. No. Marge Smith was late all the time, and she wasn’t fired!
This exchange goes to the heart of the problem.
Always be straightforward. Answer the questions directly. Many of the questions the lawyer will ask require simple answers.
The simple, straightforward answer is best.
3. Specific
We all tend to talk in generalities. For example:
- This person is good.
- That movie is terrific!
Generalities are not helpful when you are dealing with the law.
The law requires specific information. If you are asked a question such as: “On what date did this happen?” it is best to give the exact date, e.g., “It happened on March 15, 2015.” If you can’t give a specific date, be as specific as possible, e.g. “It happened the week of March 12, 2015.”
When asked about a conversation, tell the lawyer exactly what was said (if possible). For example, “Mr. Jones said…and then I said…” The more exact you are in the interview, the better advice the lawyer can give you.
4. Systematic
When you tell your story to the lawyer, do so chronologically. You cannot tell everything at once. Here is an example of what can go wrong.
A person is describing to her lawyer how they got fired.
Q. Did your boss call you into their office?
A. Yes.
Q. What did they say?
A. They said, “Please sit down.” I sat down. Then they said, “This is difficult, but I’m going to let you go because of the Atlantic mix-up. Well, I can tell you, I can swear on my mother’s grave, I had nothing to do with the Atlantic mix-up.”
The information in bold type breaks the flow of the story because the person has begun to talk about something new, “the Atlantic mix-up.”
The flow of the story is important. The explanation of “the Atlantic mix-up” can wait until later in the interview. It may also be important, but it is confusing to mention it now.
- Keep your story in chronological order. Do not skip from one time period to another.
- If you have papers and documents, get them in order before seeing the lawyer.
Quick Summary
Fill out the Information Sheet and take it with you.
Fill out the Document List and take it with you.
- Write out your story before you go to the lawyer.
- If you have questions to ask the lawyer, write them down before you go. That way, you won’t forget them.
- When you meet with the lawyer, remember to be slow, straightforward, specific and systematic.
This page was adapted, with permission, from Access Pro Bono BC.
Last reviewed: May 16, 2024
How lawyers charge for their work
When you first meet with your lawyer, or soon afterwards if you decide to hire them, your lawyer should give you information about:
- their legal fees and how they are calculated
- out-of-pocket expenses (disbursements)
- interest that may be charged if you do not pay your bill on time
A lawyer must not charge or accept a fee or disbursement, including interest, unless it is fair and reasonable and has been disclosed in a timely fashion. ( Rule 3.6-1 Code of Professional Conduct for NS Lawyers)
Do not be afraid to ask questions. You need to have a good, professional working relationship with your lawyer, which includes being comfortable talking about the expected costs and bills you get. Lawyers must explain the basis of fees and disbursements they charge.
Tight budget? Ask your lawyer about flexible fee arrangements like flat fees, a contingency fee, or a Limited Scope Retainer.
What are legal fees and what are they based on?
Fees are what lawyers charge for their legal services, including their time, expertise and skills. Fees should be fair and reasonable, and your lawyer should let you know about them in a timely way. What is fair and reasonable will depend on factors like:
- time and effort needed and spent
- lawyer’s experience and abilities
- difficulty and complexity of the issues
- what is at stake for you (for example, amount of money, importance to you)
- any estimate or range of fees the lawyer gave you
- fee arrangement you agreed to
- the outcome of the case.
What are disbursements?
Disbursements are out-of-pocket expenses paid to third parties on the client's behalf, like:
- couriers, printing, postage
- long-distance telephone, faxing
- service of documents (process server)
- court filing fees
- government fees
- medical reports
- assessments
- transcripts
- expert fees.
How Lawyers Charge for their Work
Hourly rates
Lawyers usually bill on an hourly basis. Your lawyer’s time on your case includes research, telephone calls, emails, texts, letters, meetings, legal document preparation, discoveries, and court or tribunal appearances.
A lawyer’s hourly rate usually depends on the lawyer’s years of experience - newer lawyers are generally less expensive than more experienced lawyers. The general range is from about $150 to $500 an hour.
Retainer fee: Full Scope or Limited Scope?
Most lawyers will ask you to pay a retainer fee upfront when you hire them unless you have agreed on a flat fee, contingency fee, or other fee arrangement. A retainer is a lump sum of money provided to a lawyer when you hire them. The retainer is kept in the lawyer’s trust account and covers legal fees and other expenses for the legal work. It is also sometimes referred to as a retainer fee.
The retainer fee varies from lawyer to lawyer and depends on the case. The lawyer will do work until the retainer runs out and ask for a new retainer if more work needs to be done. After the legal work is done, any balance left after the lawyer's bill is paid will be returned to you.
You may also be asked to sign a retainer agreement, sometimes also called an engagement letter. A retainer agreement is a contract with your lawyer.
A retainer agreement establishes the lawyer-client relationship and may cover things like:
- how much you can expect to pay (ballpark estimate)
- fees, disbursements and other costs
- retainer amount (if applicable)
- billing format, when bills are due, and interest charged if you do not pay your bill on time
- scope of the retainer: what you have hired the lawyer to do, and what you have not
- whether work may be delegated (for example, to a paralegal, articled clerk, associate, or administrative support staff)
- withdrawal, transfer or termination of services
- how communication will happen (for example, email, phone, letters, etc)
- confidentiality.
Full Scope Retainer or Limited Scope Retainer?
Full Service/Scope Retainer: The lawyer will provide full representation, dealing with all aspects of the matter from start to finish to resolve the client's legal problem.
Limited Scope Retainer: The lawyer provides legal services for part of a client’s legal problem, not the whole thing. This is sometimes also called 'unbundled legal services'.
Examples of a limited scope retainer are where a lawyer:
- drafts or reviews court documents, like pleadings or a brief, as a 'ghost-writer'
- only does part of a court process, like questioning a witness (direct or cross-examination) or doing a sentencing hearing
- advises about whether a client should accept a proposed settlement or transaction, like giving independent legal advice on a proposed separation agreement
- provides outside court logistical and strategic help to a self-represented litigant, sometimes called 'coaching'.
Representing yourself? A limited-scope retainer may be a good option.
Flat or fixed fees
There are some basic things that firms usually do for a flat rate (if they fall within the firm's scope of practice). Things like:
- Initial consultations
- Summary advice
- Real estate transactions (property lawyers)
- Incorporating a small business (business lawyers)
- Basic estate planning documents - wills, powers of attorney, personal directives (wills and estates lawyers)
- Uncontested divorces (family lawyers)
- Permanent residence applications (immigration lawyers)
However, many legal issues are open-ended, so it’s not always possible for a lawyer to quote a flat rate or precisely foresee the total cost of a matter.
The lawyer’s out-of-pocket expenses (disbursements), if any, will generally be extra. Ask your lawyer for an estimate of those expenses.
Contingency fee agreements
Contingency fee
A contingency fee is a percentage of the money the lawyer gets for you if successful. If you win, the lawyer gets the agreed-upon percentage as the lawyer's fee.
...a lawyer may enter into a written agreement...that provides that the lawyer’s fee is contingent, in whole or in part, on the outcome of the matter for which the lawyer’s services are to be provided (Rule 3.6-2 Code of Professional Conduct for NS Lawyers)
Contingency fees are most commonly used by personal injury lawyers. Contingency fees are less common in other areas of law. In any case, it’s up to the lawyer to decide whether to offer a contingency fee arrangement. If you lose the case, you do not pay the lawyer any fee. However, you may still have to pay the disbursements.
The percentage is open to negotiation between you and your lawyer but must be fair and reasonable. The percentage is based on factors like:
- the likelihood of success,
- nature and complexity of the claim,
- expense and risk of going ahead,
- amount of expected recovery,
- and who may get a costs award.
A contingency fee agreement must be in writing and include specific terms and conditions from Rule 77.14 of Nova Scotia's Civil Procedure Rules.
Most contingency fee agreements say that if you decide to change lawyers, you will need to pay the first lawyer for their work on your file up to that point.
A contingency fee agreement is a contract with your lawyer. Read it carefully and be sure you understand its terms before you sign it. If you’re uncertain about it, seek a second opinion about your case from a different law firm.
Disputes about a lawyer's bill
Go here for information about disputing a lawyer's bill.
Last reviewed: May 2024
Mediation
Mediation is a process for resolving conflict. It is an alternative to court.
Mediation is:
- voluntary
- private
- confidential.
The parties have sole control over the outcome. Mediation is often used when parties to a conflict have failed to work the issue out for themselves. Mediation is about cooperative problem-solving.
Mediation is a process that involves a mediator, who is appointed by both parties, to help the parties find common ground and reach a mutually agreeable outcome, if possible. Mediators are neutral, impartial professionals. Mediators do not provide legal advice.
Can Mediation help me solve my problem?
Mediation is a process that allows people in conflict to discuss the situation in a private setting. People with problems, conflicts or disagreements can talk with each other and make decisions about their situation in a supportive environment. Mediation can help people resolve their problems and settle their disputes.
Who can benefit from mediation?
Neighbors, families, parents, community groups, co-workers and people in litigation can benefit from mediation. Mediation can be used for just about every kind of conflict.
What does the mediator do?
The mediator facilitates discussion between people in conflict so they can have the difficult conversations they need to have. The people in conflict can say what they need to say and be heard and hear the other persons as well. Mediation’s greatest value is not only to find solutions to people’s problems but to change how people in conflict behave toward each other: mediators help with this process.
How does mediation work?
It starts with all the parties involved agreeing to try mediation to resolve their problems. The mediator, who does not have decision making authority, may meet with each of the parties before the mediation to gather some information and to explain to the parties what to expect. A date is then set for the mediation. Often one session is all that is required.
What happens during mediation?
Pre-Mediation Stage
This is a stage where a mediator prepares for mediation. It is used to assess the dispute and the parties' willingness to negotiate and to arrange the meetings. At this stage the parties receive information about the process and how to prepare for the first meeting.
Commitment Stage
This is generally a session where the mediator explains to the parties the process and procedures. The parties explain their issues, priorities and hear those of the other party(ies). This is the first opportunity for the parties to learn if there is a willingness to work through the issues in order to reach a settlement. The parties begin to develop a cooperative relationship and some confidence in the mediation process and the mediator.
Negotiation Stage
The parties develop a mutual understanding of the interests underlying the issues and generate possible options for settlement. Where issues of disagreement exist, objective criteria are used as tools of persuasion. The mediator may meet separately with parties (caucus) and have joint sessions. The parties with authority to settle must be part of the negotiations at this stage.
Settlement Stage
Options for settlement are evaluated based on general principles and specific objective standards. Options are evaluated as possible solutions. Outside advice regarding possible solutions is sought. The processes for reaching and documenting agreement are discussed. When all parties are satisfied with the solutions, an agreement outlining the areas of agreement in clear, specific language is prepared.
What are some of the benefits of mediation?
Mediations are private and confidential; the court process is public and not confidential. They do not require forms and people in conflict do not have to follow complicated steps to get to mediation: the court system is all about forms, Rules and processes which can be very complicated for the ordinary person to follow. Mediations are quick, efficient and often much less expensive than court. Because problems can be addressed sooner, the parties are spared the emotional turmoil of ongoing conflict.
Voluntary Participation
Parties who enter into mediation do so freely. They are not forced to negotiate or settle but do so of their own free will.
Timeliness
The parties set their own timelines for the process. It is not controlled by court dates or waiting periods. Normally, the process can be arranged directly, between the parties and a mediator, to be held at a time and place convenient to the parties with little or no delay.
Saves Money
A mediator can normally provide an estimate of the cost of the process at the beginning. Evidence suggests that conflicts handled through mediation are most often much less expensive than the cost of going to court. The ability to choose an informed mediator usually increases the opportunity for cost savings.
Confidentiality
Mediation sessions are held in private and all proceedings are confidential to the mediator and the participating parties. Mediators usually cannot be called upon to give evidence, in any action that may follow the mediation, about any matters that were discussed during the mediation.
Supports the Parties
Parties who reach their own decisions through mediation have more influence on the outcome of their dispute as they remain in control of the decision-making process. This is very different from arbitration or going to court where the decision-making authority is with the arbitrator or judge. The mediator has no decision-making authority and is there to help the parties understand each other.
Practical Solutions
Parties who mediate their conflicts are able to consider the details of implementation. Settlements can be specially tailored to meet the parties’ needs.
Maintains Relationships
Because mediation addresses the parties’ interests and seeks to achieve a win for all involved, the process is non-adversarial compared to going to court. There is a greater likelihood of parties maintaining relationships through a mediation process.
Stopping the Process
As mediation is voluntary it can be stopped by any party at any time and it in no way affects pursuing another option for resolving the conflict.
Is mediation appropriate in abuse cases?
Although mediation is an alternative to court, it is not usually suitable for situations involving abuse, because of the imbalance of power in abusive relationships. It is important in mediation that all parties are able to take part in the process without feeling afraid, intimidated, controlled, pressured or coerced into coming to an "agreement". If there is a history of abuse or violence in the relationship between the parties mediation may in some cases provide an opportunity for further abuse, and may heighten safety risks.
If you are considering mediation it is very important to tell the mediator, and your lawyer (if you have one), about any abuse.
If you are speaking with a mediator to explore whether mediation would be right for you, and they do not ask you questions to screen for abuse or safety concerns, consider a different mediator.
Can my lawyer be our mediator?
How can I find a mediator?
You can find a mediator through:
- ADR Atlantic Institute - find a mediator, arbitrator, or other dispute resolution professional in Atlantic Canada. Members of ADR Atlantic Institute adhere to the Rules and Codes of Conduct & Ethics of the ADR Institute of Canada.
- ADR Canada Connect - find an alternative dispute resolution professional Canada-wide
- Family Mediation Canada - find a family law mediator
- Mediators are also listed in the Yellow Pages under "Mediation-Services" and "Marriage, Family & Individual Counsellors", or look online
- The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia offers a Mediator Referral Service.
More information about mediation
- ADR Institute of Canada: information about various ways to resolve disputes without going to court
- Family Law Nova Scotia: Family Mediation - www.nsfamilylaw.ca/services/court/mediation
- Judicial Mediation at the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal - courts.ns.ca/Appeal_Court/NSCA_mediation_program.htm
Self-Representation
Free and low cost legal help in Nova Scotia
This page provides information about the various free and low-cost legal services offered by different organizations across Nova Scotia.
What services are available depends on the type of legal issue you have, so this page is organized by legal topic.
Click on a legal topic below to learn more.
African Nova Scotian Justice Resources
African Nova Scotian Justice Institute
The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute addresses issues of systemic racism in the justice system while ensuring fair, legal and constitutional treatment of African Nova Scotians and all black people of African descent.
Services may include:
- Monitoring human rights and holding police accountable
- Legal defense for community justice issues
- Supporting African Nova Scotians in court
- Providing alternative justice options for offenders
- A holistic approach to supporting victims
- Supporting through incarceration and reintegration
- Collecting important data and statistics to advocate for change
- Producing/Training on Impact of Race and Culture Assessments
- Various support for African Nova Scotians in conflict with the criminal justice system
- Public education on systemic racism in the justice system.
- Increasing justice awareness among youth
Contact:
- Website: https://www.ansji.ca/
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (902) 492-5619
Land Title's Initiative
The Land Titles Initiative (LTI) helps residents in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook/Lake Loon, Lincolnville and Sunnyville get clear title to their land at no cost. There are Community Navigators to help all applicants involved in the Land Titles Initiative. Their role is to work directly with residents to help them through the land claims process. There are different ways to get clear land title. The Community Navigators will help you get on the right path and will track the progress on your case. They can also help connect you with other services you may need.
You can call a Community Navigator to ask questions about the status of the title to a parcel within the LTI communities. You do not need to have a land titles claim registered with the LTI. If title is unclear, you may submit an intake application to determine your eligibility for the LTI.
To speak with a Community Navigator or schedule a meeting call toll free: 1-833-424-6100 or email: [email protected]
902 ManUp
902 ManUp is a non-profit volunteer organization founded in 2016 in response to the increase in community violence, particularly involving black males. The organization is primarily dedicated to the advancement of all Black Communities within Nova Scotia and has a particular focus on the empowerment of young black males. However, their mandate includes all individuals or groups at risk of marginalization and social and academic exclusion.
Services include:
- violence intervention and prevention initiatives,
- mentorship,
- community outreach,
- professional development
- and more.
Civil law (lawsuits, Supreme Court, Court of Appeal)
Free Legal Clinic: Halifax Law Courts
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Halifax without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Halifax Law Courts may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. Family law issues, except child protection appeals, going before the Court of Appeal also qualify.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law issues in either Court, or family law issues in the Supreme Court Family Division. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer and law student for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic is open most Thursdays between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm in the Law Courts building 1815 Upper Water St., across from the foot of Duke Street. The Clinic area and the courthouse administration office are to the left when you come through the main entrance on the 2nd Floor. Follow the signs or ask at the reception desk.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment, call:
- 902-424-6900 for Supreme Court matters
- 902-424-6937 for Court of Appeal matters
You can also visit the Courts' Website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Sydney Courthouse
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Sydney without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Sydney Courthouse may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law or family law issues in either Court. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria mentioned above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic happens most Fridays, with appointments available at 10:00 am and 11:00 am. The Clinic is on the main floor of the courthouse at 136 Charlotte Street in Sydney. Follow the signs or ask at the reception desk to the right of the main doors.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment:
- call 902-563-3550, or make an appointment in person at the Court Administration office at the Sydney courthouse, 136 Charlotte Street
You can also visit the Courts' website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Truro Courthouse
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Truro without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Truro Supreme Court may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law or family law issues in either Court. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services, including for the Supreme Court Family Division.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria mentioned above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a private, free 60 minute session. The Clinic happens the first and third Friday of the month, Jan-June, Sept-Nov, except holidays. Appointments are available at 9 am, 10 am, and 11 am. The Clinic is at the Truro Supreme Court, 1 Church Street, Truro.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must schedule an appointment to be seen.
To make an appointment:
- call 902-893-3953, or make an appointment in person at the Supreme Court Administration Office, Lower Floor, 1 Church Street, through the Prothonotary's Office.
You can also visit the Courts' website for more information.
Area of law: Civil law
Free Legal Clinic: Yarmouth Court
If you are going to the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal in Yarmouth without a lawyer, the Free Legal Clinic at the Yarmouth Courthouse may be able to help. The Clinic provides information and advice on civil law issues before the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal. Family law issues, except child protection appeals, going before the Court of Appeal also qualify.
The Clinic does not deal with criminal law issues in either Court, or family law issues in the Supreme Court Family Division. See the Family Law section for information about family law help services.
There is no income threshold to meet. Everyone qualifies for this free service, as long as your case meets the criteria above.
You can make an appointment to meet with a volunteer lawyer for a free 60 minute session. Appointments are available at 9, 10, and 11 a.m. on the first and third Fridays of the month, except on holidays.
This is not a drop-in clinic. You must fill out an application and schedule an appointment. People with close court dates get priority.
To make an appointment:
Appointments can be arranged in person at the Court Administration office at the Yarmouth courthouse, 164 Main Street. Ask for Court Administrator, Jean Brown. You can also make appointments by phone by calling 902-742-0580.
Visit the Courts' Website for more information.
Area of law: Civil
Free Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors
The Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors Program provides up to 4 hours of free, independent legal advice for sexual assault survivors who are 16 years of age or older. You do not have to report to police or take legal action if you use this service.
Registration is done through an independent agency, 211 Nova Scotia. Dial 2-1-1 for intake. Go to novascotia.ca/sexualassaultlegaladvice/ for more information.
Areas of law: Criminal, Civil
Free Legal Support for Surviviors or Workplace Sexual Harassment
Get free legal information help available at Legal Information Line (1-800-665-9779) or 902-455-3135, Livechat, and email: [email protected].
If you have experienced or have been affected by workplace sexual harassment, we can provide you legal support. Your questions can be answered with this free confidential legal service.
You can contact us for a confidential referral using one of the following options:
Fill out the information below
Or send us an email at
[email protected]
Or telephone, toll free anywhere in Nova Scotia, at
833-407-3600.
If you call, please leave a message telling us how to reach you and if it is safe to leave a return message when we call you back.
Common Questions about the Free Legal Advice Service
Is this service confidential?
Yes. We collect only the information we need to set up a meeting with a navigator or lawyer. We may ask you for an email address so we can send you a survey that will help us understand how to improve our program. The survey is optional and completely anonymous.
The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia will share some statistics with our funder, the federal Department of Justice. They will want to know how often Nova Scotians use the program and what part of the province they live in. The information we share will not identify anyone using the program.
What can I expect?
When you reach out to us, we will ask for some information: Email, phone number, employer, location, and a brief summary of your story. Once we receive this information we will connect you with one of our legally-trained navigators. Our navigators are trained to help you take the right action to deal with what has happened at your workplace. They are also trained to work with clients who may feel traumatized.
In your conversation, the Navigators will tell you about your rights and ways you can deal with what is happening at work. Everyone’s situation is different, and the Navigator will answer questions and provide guidance about your work situation and experience.
If the situation required additional supports, we may reach out to a volunteer Lawyer on our roster for additional supports and assistance.
You and the Navigator may use your four hours in the way that works best for you. For example, your first meeting might be two hours, and you might have another appointment later on.
You might not need four hours of legal support. If your issue is complex, you might feel that you need more than four hours. If you need more time, phone or email us and we will do our best to help.
Is there a cost?
No. Your can get up to for hours of free legal support. You might not need four hours of legal support. If your issue is complex, you might feel that you need more than four hours. If you need more time, phone or email us and we will do our best to help.
Do I have to take legal action if I get your support?
You are in control, and what you do next is entirely up to you.
For some people, taking legal action to deal with a sensitive matter can be overwhelming. You may take any of the steps or options that the lawyer tells you about, or you may do nothing. Our program aims to help you better understand your options so that you can make the choices and take the actions that are best for you.
I want a referral. What are the next steps?
If you have experienced workplace sexual harassment and need support, please either use the phone number or email address above, or fill out the form with your name, email, phone number, employer and where you are in Nova Scotia, and send to us. When you submit your information it will be sent to our Program Coordinator, who will be in touch to arrange a referral for you. We do our best to follow up within 48 hours.
When we respond, we will request that you provide us with a brief summary. This is to ensure that we match you with the most appropriate person to provide you the support you need. Please note: a brief summary is required to be matched.
We do need either a phone number or an email address to arrange a referral for you. You can give us either, or both. If you are comfortable providing an email address, we would be grateful so that in addition to arranging a referral we can also send you a feedback survey to help us improve our program.
We ask for your location so, if we need to connect you with a lawyer for further legal support, we can refer you to a lawyer in your community whenever possible and they can perform an accurate conflict of interest check.
When you disclose this information to us, it will be used solely by the LISNS Workplace Sexual Harassment Project team to help us match you with the appropriate supports, and understand how and where workplace sexual harassment is affecting Nova Scotians.
Conflict Check: Please note that if you see a lawyer through our referral program, the lawyer or administrative staff at the law firm will complete a conflict check. Don't worry: this is a standard practice at law firms. A lawyer can't give you advice if someone at their firm is already representing the other side on any kind of legal issue. If a law firm has a conflict, our Program Coordinator will work to find an alternative solution, such as different lawyer.
The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia is a free service that gives you information about the law and your rights and responsibilities. The Government of Canada, through the Department of Justice, graciously funds the pdf Workplace Sexual Harassment Legal Advice Program.(308 KB)
Copyright, Trademarks, Patents
Canadian Intellectual Property Office
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office is a federal government office that provides legal information and services on trademarks, patents, copyright, industrial designs and integrated circuit topographies.
Contact:
- Phone: 1-866-997-1936
- Website: cipo.ic.gc.ca
Areas of law: Intellectual Property.
Criminal law (see also: Prison law)
Free Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors
The Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors Program provides up to 4 hours of free, independent legal advice for sexual assault survivors who are 16 years of age or older. You do not have to report to police or take legal action if you use this service.
Registration is done through an independent agency, 211 Nova Scotia. Dial 2-1-1 for intake. Go to novascotia.ca/sexualassaultlegaladvice/ for more information.
Areas of law: Criminal, Civil
Help with Applying for a Peace Bond
Halifax Regional Police Victim Services Help with Applying for a Peace Bond
Individuals who wish to apply for a peace bond through the Provincial Court in Halifax and Dartmouth can get support from Halifax Regional Police (HRP) Victim Services. Victim Services volunteers will provide potential and current applicants with information on the application process, assistance to complete the application forms and ongoing emotional support. Contact HRP Victim Services at 902-490-5300 for more information about the Peace Bond Navigator program.
Peace bond help from Nova Scotia Legal Aid
Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) is committed to helping people applying for peace bond orders. NSLA Staff Lawyers can help by explaining the steps required to begin a peace bond application and then explaining the court process. If you are seeking assistance to apply for a peace bond order, you can contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid at 902-420-7800 or apply online. A lawyer will contact you and provide you with confidential advice and assistance.
Click here for Legal Information about Peace Bonds and how to apply for one
Area of law: Criminal
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on criminal defence law issues. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information, and go here for information about services and areas of criminal law covered.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel for all Nova Scotians facing criminal or drug charges
Help from Duty Counsel lawyers is available to all Nova Scotians facing criminal or drug charges.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel is available for:
- free, summary (brief) legal advice at court for those who do not have a lawyer
- youth and adults in custody (Criminal Law, court appearance at Bail Hearing)
- Emergency legal advice by telephone is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, province-wide, if you have been arrested or detained by police
Contact:
- Your local courthouse or Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/ or contact the court
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: Adult and youth criminal law
Mi'kmaq Legal Support Network
The Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network provides legal support services and victim support services to Indigenous people in Nova Scotia, particularly through the Mi'kmaw Court Worker Program and the Mi'kmaw Customary Law Program.
Contact:
- Phone:
- Cape Breton: 902-379-2042
- Dartmouth: 902-468-0381
- Truro: 902-895-1141
- Toll-free: 1-877-379-2042
Area of law: Criminal law
Debt and credit issues
Bankruptcy Assistance Program-Superintendent of Bankruptcy
If you are considering bankruptcy, you'll need the help of a licensed professional who administers the bankruptcy process, called a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT). Licensed Insolvency Trustees are licensed by the federal Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy.
If you are unable to get an LIT to accept your file, or if you cannot afford to hire an LIT, the Bankruptcy Assistance Program may be able to help if you:
- have contacted at least two LITs and tried to obtain their services
- are not, and have not recently been, involved in commercial activities
- are not required to make surplus income payments; and
- are not in jail.
Contact:
- Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada
- Phone: 1-877-376-9902
- Website: osb.ic.gc.ca
Areas of law: Credit and debt law, Bankruptcy law
Credit Counselling
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada:
https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/debt/debt-help.html: Information about how a credit counsellor can help you deal with debt, and how to find a trustworthy, qualified credit counselling service near you.
The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada has lots of free information about your options for managing debt.
Debtor Assistance Program, Service Nova Scotia
Note: as of July 2022 this program is on hiatus. Please check with Access Nova Scotia to find out if the program has started again.
The Debtor Assistance Program helps people experiencing financial difficulty deal with their creditors. You can meet with a licensed administrator who will review your situation and discuss options. If appropriate, administrators can file consumer proposals under the federal Bankruptcy Act. A consumer proposal is a debt repayment plan that avoids bankruptcy and is legally binding on creditors, if accepted. Administrators cannot file bankruptcy applications (you need a licensed insolvency trustee for that).
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or toll free 1-800-670-4357 or visit your local Access Nova Scotia office
- Website: novascotia.ca/sns/access/individuals/debtor-assistance.asp
Nova Scotia Legal Aid
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides a wide variety of services and programs to economically vulnerable Nova Scotians.
To get start-to-finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Free legal information and brief (summary) legal advice may be available for debt issues. It is important to contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid and fill out an application to see what help they can provide.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Credit and debt
Employment, Employment Insurance, Workers’ Compensation
Labour Standards Nova Scotia
Labour Standards Division, NS Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration
The Nova Scotia Labour Standards Code applies to employers, employees, and recruiters. There are also rules for the recruitment of workers and the hiring of foreign workers. The Labour Standards Division addresses questions and complaints from the public about how the provincial Labour Standards Code applies to specific employment situations. Complaints about potential violations of the Labour Standards Code generally must be filed within 6 months of the issue or incident occurring. If you file a complaint, an officer will try to settle the dispute and, if the dispute does not settle, will investigate and issue a formal decision, if necessary.
Labour Standards also has an online Guide to the Nova Scotia Labour Standards Code
Contact:
- Address: 1505 Barrington Street, 3rd Floor North, Halifax B3J 3K5
- Phone: 902-424-4311 or 1-888-315-0110 (toll-free in NS)
- Website: novascotia.ca/lae/employmentrights/
Labour Standards Division,NS Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration
Area of law: Employment law
Employment Insurance Appeals
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides information, advice and representation about Employment Insurance Appeals. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Legal Aid for information about help with an Employment Insurance issue.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about Employment Insurance Appeals
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Administrative law, Employment Insurance
Free legal services for Workers' Compensation issues
Workers' Advisers Program Nova Scotia
This Workers' Advisers Program offers legal services to eligible injured workers and their families, who are seeking compensation under Nova Scotia's Workers’ Compensation Act. Services are offered at all levels of appeals, including at Court in special cases. In general, in order to qualify for services, an injured worker must have a reasonable expectation of success in obtaining at least $500, or the equivalent, in an appeal from a Workers' Compensation Board written decision. The legal services are provided independently of the Workers’ Compensation Board and the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Tribunal. Clients of the program are in a solicitor/client relationship with the program and its staff, in the same way as they would be with any other lawyer or law firm in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
- Address:
- Halifax: 502–5670 Spring Garden Road Halifax, NS B3J 2X1
- Sydney: 5–1030 Upper Prince Street Sydney, NS B1P 5P6
- Phone (voice & TTY): 1-800-774-4712 (Halifax office) or 1-800-890-6786 (Sydney office)
- Website: novascotia.ca/lae/wap/
Area of law: Workers' Compensation
Information, advocacy, support on Workers' Compensation issues
Office of the Worker Counsellor
The Office of the Worker Counsellor offers information, advice, education and advocacy for injured workers, their representatives in the workplace and their family members on all aspects of workers’ compensation in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
- Address: Suite 220-3700 Kempt Road, Halifax, NS
- Phone : 902-455-5455 or 1 877-220-2722
- Website: workercounsellor.ca
Area of law: Workers' Compensation, Administrative law
Employment Law Legal Information-Halifax Workers' Action Centre
The Workers’ Action Centre helps non-unionized workers with labour standards issues, unpaid wages, terminations, workplace discrimination, and more. They provide free, one-on-one legal information sessions to low-wage and marginalized, non-unionized workers.
Contact:
- Website: halifaxwac.ca
- To schedule an appointment call (902) 221-0755 or email [email protected]
Area of law: Employment law
Environmental
East Coast Environmental Law
East Coast Environmental Law (ECELAW) is a non-profit organization that envisions a clean, healthy environment that is protected by the fair application of strong environmental laws. ECELAW was founded in 2007 with a mission to provide public access to environmental law information and advice, to promote the development and equitable application of progressive environmental laws, and to assist in the development of the next generation of lawyers who are committed to using the law to achieve environmental protection and sustainability. ECELAW provides a public inquiry service, partners with other environmental organizations, holds workshops, publishes citizen guides and research papers, and mentors environmental law students.
Contact:
• Phone: 902-494-7121 (Environmental law Inquiry Service)
• Website: www.ecelaw.ca
Areas of law: Environmental law; Aboriginal and Indigenous law in environmental contexts.
Family law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on family law issues, including child protection, custody, parenting time, child and spousal support, separation and divorce.
Some level of help is available to all Nova Scotians on family law issues. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: Family Law
Free Brief Legal Advice at Family Courts
Summary Advice Counsel at Family Courts
The Summary Advice Counsel is a lawyer who assists people who need legal advice on a family law matter, but who do not have a lawyer. The Summary Advice lawyer provides basic legal advice, free of charge, regardless of how much you make or where you get your income.
This service is available throughout Nova Scotia. Your case or issue must be somehow related to the court where the Summary Advice lawyer is located. For example, if you are making an application to the court in Halifax, you should book an appointment with the lawyer in Halifax.
The purpose of the Summary Advice Counsel service is to give people a better understanding of their legal rights and responsibilities. The Summary Advice lawyer can give basic information about legal terms, how to start or respond to a court application, court processes, legal documents, and other aspects of family law.
The Summary Advice lawyer can give advice on parenting arrangements, child support and spousal support, property division, divorce, and most other family law matters and court processes.
The Summary Advice lawyer does not provide advice to parents involved in child protection matters, or for matters involving Mi’kmaw Family Services. The Summary Advice lawyer may provide advice to a non-party to a child protection matter. For example, if you are not directly involved with a child protection proceeding and are applying for decision-making responsibility for, or contact with, the children involved.
The Summary Advice lawyer does not go to court with you. For more information about this service, click here.
You can contact your local Summary Advice lawyer to book an appointment by calling the appropriate number below:
|
Annapolis |
902-742-0500 |
Pictou |
902-485-7350 |
|
Antigonish |
902-863-7312 |
Port Hawkesbury |
902-625-2665 |
|
Amherst |
902-667-2256 |
Sydney |
902-563-2085 |
|
Bridgewater |
902-543-4679 |
Truro |
902-893-5840 |
|
Halifax |
902-424-5616 |
Windsor |
902-679-6075 |
|
Kentville |
902-679-6075 |
Yarmouth |
902-742-0500 |
Area of law: Family Law
Dalhousie Legal Aid Advice and Representation
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides legal aid services to Nova Scotians who have a lower income and who would otherwise be unable to obtain legal advice. Generally, for family law issues you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before being assigned a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Area of law: Family law
General
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Information, Advice, Representation
Nova Scotia Legal Aid offers legal information, legal advice and representation. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must fill out an application and meet income and area of law requirements.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid only provides lawyers for certain types of law, generally Family Law, Criminal Law, and Social Justice, which includes Income assistance, Residential tenancies (tenant rights), CPP disability, and EI - Employment Insurance, Prison Law, Adult Capacity and Decision-making, Involuntary Psychiatric Treatment, Adult Protection.
Go to nslegalaid.ca for more information about available services and areas of law covered.
Youth qualify for services independently of their family.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Dalhousie Legal Aid Services
Dalhousie Legal Aid Service is a community legal clinic that provides legal aid services to people otherwise unable to obtain legal advice.
Generally, you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before getting a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid for family law or youth criminal law issues. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid directly about legal issues for people with low incomes, such as income assistance, tenant rights, human rights complaints, police complaints, mental health law issues, and disputes with Nova Scotia Power. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid for details about services and areas of law covered.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St., Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Lawyers in private practice: flexible fee options
Here are some things to ask about if you are looking for a lawyer in private practice and cost is an issue:
- can you help me with just part of my case? Lawyers call this a "Limited Scope Retainer" or "unbundled" services
- do you offer coaching for people who are representing themselves? Coaching is basically out-of-court strategic support
- do you charge a flat fee for this type of work?
- will you consider a contingency fee agreement?
- what is your hourly rate?
- can the lawyer wait to get paid once you get the money you are seeking (for example, spousal support, matrimonial property division)
- do you offer any pro bono (free) help?
Get more information about Finding a lawyer, and How lawyers charge for their work.
Housing
Dalhousie Legal Aid Tenant Rights Advice
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides free information, advice and representation to tenants on Residential Tenancies and low income housing issues. Contact Dalhousie Legal Aid for details.
Download Dalhousie Legal Aid's Tenant Rights Guides
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Areas of law: Residential tenancies (Tenant rights), Administrative law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Tenant Rights Advice
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides free legal information, advice and representation on Residential Tenancies issues for tenants. To get start to finish help with your case (full representation) you must be getting income assistance or have an equally low income. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about tenant rights
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Residential tenancies (Tenant rights), Administrative law
Residential Tenancies (Service Nova Scotia)
Residential Tenancies (Service Nova Scotia)
The Residential Tenancies program, part of Service Nova Scotia, is the Nova Scotia government office that deals with residential landlord and tenant disputes. The Residential Tenancies program helps landlords and tenants understand their rights, and exercise those rights when necessary. They offer a range of services, including dispute resolution, residential tenancies forms and information booklets for both landlords and tenants.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or 1-800-670-4357
TTY: 1-877-404-0867 - In-person: Access Nova Scotia locations province-wide
- Website: novascotia.ca/sns/access/land/residential-tenancies.asp
Area of law: Residential Tenancies, for Landlords and Tenants
Condominium Dispute Resolution (Service Nova Scotia)
Service Nova Scotia: Condominium Dispute Resolution
Service Nova Scotia offers information about condominium ownership, how condominium corporations are operated, what costs are involved in condominium ownership, and what to watch for when buying a new or existing condominium.
They also offer ways for resolving disputes between condominium owners and condominium corporations - dispute resolution for minor disputes, and arbitration for other issues. There is a $124.60 fee to apply for dispute resolution.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-424-5200 or 1-800-670-4357
TTY: 1-877-404-0867 - In-person: Access Nova Scotia locations province-wide
- Website:novascotia.ca/sns/access/
Area of law: Condominium law
Income Assistance (Welfare)
Dalhousie Legal Aid Income Assistance Advice
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides free information, advice and representation to low income Nova Scotians on income assistance issues.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell Street St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Areas of law: Income Assistance, Administrative law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Income Assistance Advice
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides free legal information, advice and representation on income assistance issues for low income Nova Scotians. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information.
Youth qualify for services independently of their family.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid has online legal information about Income Assistance
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Income assistance, Administrative law
Indigenous Justice Services and Information
The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq
The mission of The Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq (CMM) is to proactively promote and assist Mi’kmaw communities’ initiatives toward self determination and enhancement of community. The CMM has a number of plain language public legal education materials to help the Mi’kmaq understand their rights and responsibilities under the law, including:
- Mi’kmaq Wills Package: For Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq, which includes
1. Book One: How to Write a Will
2. Book Two: How to Settle an Estate
3. Book Three: How to Write a Power of Attorney and Personal Directive
4. Mi'kmaq Wills and Estates & Matrimonial Real Property
Copies are located in band offices of The CMM's member bands or can be found online at cmmns.com/program/wills-estates
They also have publications on other topics, such as:
- Emergency Protection Orders
- Exclusive Occupation Orders
- Mi’kmaw Matrimonial Real Property: A Guide for Bear River, Millbrook, Paqtnkek, Pictou Landing, and Sipekne'katik
You can find these publications, and others, in the resources section of their website.
Contact:
Address: 57 Martin Crescent Truro, NS B2N 6N7
Phone: 902-895-6385 or 1-877-892-2424
Website: cmmns.com
Areas of law: Wills and Estates law, Family law
Mi'kmaq Legal Support Network
The Mi’kmaq Legal Support Network provides legal support services and victim support services to Indigenous people in Nova Scotia, particularly through the Mi'kmaw Court Worker Program and the Mi'kmaw Customary Law Program.
Contact:
- Phone:
- Cape Breton: 902-379-2042
- Dartmouth: 902-468-0381
- Truro: 902-895-1141
- Toll-free: 1-877-379-2042
Area of law: Criminal law, including victim support
Indigenous Justice Initiative, Nova Scotia Legal Aid
This program offers services to Indigenous peoples and communities, both on and off reserve. Outreach services in and near Indigenous communities is offered in Indian Brook, Paq'tnkek, Wagmatcook, We'koqma'q, Potlokek, Eskasoni. Outreach is also provided at the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax. Indigenous lawyers are available in Dartmouth, Windsor, Sydney, Millbrook, Bridgewater, and Yarmouth.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
- Nova Scotia Legal Aid - Indigenous Justice Information and Resources
Areas of law: Family Law, Criminal Law, and Social Justice (income assistance, residential tenancies, CPP disability, EI)
Resource Guide for people who work with Indigenous Clients in the Atlantic Canadian Justice System
Bringing Balance to the Scales of Justice: Fulfilling Our Responsibility to Indigenous People involved in the Justice System (2018)
A resource guide that provides a general introduction to justice issues for people who work with Indigenous clients in the Atlantic Canadian justice system. The first half of the guide focuses on an overview of the post-colonial experiences of Indigenous people in Atlantic Canada, explores the reasons for Indigenous overrepresentation in the justice system and reviews efforts to reduce this overrepresentation. The second half provides insights into traditional Indigenous views on justice and healing and outlines some of the common ceremonial practices that can be successfully integrated into justice programs.
Published by: Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI - Indigenous Justice Program
Immigrants, Refugees
Atlantic Refugee and Immigrant Services
Atlantic Refugee and Immigrant Services Project (ARIS), Salvation Army
ARIS provides form filling help to refugees and immigrants. They can help with the following applications: Citizenship, Family Class Sponsorship, Travel Documents, and Permanent Resident Documents. They only provide help with Temporary Resident Permits in the case of an Open Work Permit being submitted with a Spousal Sponsorship application, when applicable.
Service is provided at the Spryfield Community Church & Family Resource Centre.
Contact:
- Address: 328 Herring Cove Rd, Halifax, NS B3R 1V4
- Phone: 902-477-5393
- Website: https://salvationarmy.ca/maritime/home/locations/nova-scotia/
Areas of law: Immigration, Refugee law
Halifax Refugee Clinic Advice and Representation
The Halifax Refugee Clinic is a non-profit, non-government organization serving refugee claimants, refugees and people in need of protection in Nova Scotia. They provide free legal and settlement services to refugees who cannot afford the services of private legal counsel.
Contact:
- Address: 5538 Macara St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-422-6736
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: halifaxrefugeeclinic.org/
Area of law: Refugee law
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS)
Provides services to help immigrants settle in NS, as well as refugee resettlement, language training, employment services, business services, community connections, family counselling, and more.
ISANS is able to refer clients to outreach legal services offered at ISANS by:
- Dalhousie's Schulich School of Law Pro Bono: immigration applications
- McInnes Cooper: business law services.
ISANS clients must be referred by ISANS staff to legal services available at ISANS. Arrive 15 minutes earlier to complete an application form and bring two documents-proof of income and ID such as Permanent Resident or citizenship card.
Dalhousie Schulich School of Law pro bono law students provide legal information and assistance with applications for permanent residency, citizenship, sponsorship.
Contact:
- Address: 6960 Mumford Road, Suite 2120, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3L 4P1
- Phone: 902-423-3607 or 1-866-431-6472 (toll free in NS)
- www.isans.ca
Areas of law: Immigration law, Business Law.
Name and gender marker change
Free help with Name and Gender Marker Change process-UNB Imprint Trans ID Clinic
The Imprint Trans ID Clinic at UNB provides free legal information, form-filling services, and referrals in a trans-positive and inclusive space, for folks who wish to change their legal documents to update their name and gender marker and who need help with the forms and processes. Free form-filling services are provided for the following documents:
- Birth Certificate
- Driver's License
- Health card (MSI)
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Passport
- Newcomer documents
- Student ID (Name only)
The clinic serves all clients from New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. During the clinic, law students from the University of New Brunswick Faculty of Law assist clients with their legal transition by explaining all necessary steps. Lawyers from McInnes Cooper are on-hand to supervise and assist clients with complicating factors. This service is provided by the University of New Brunsick Faculty of Law chapter of Pro Bono Students Canada, in partnership with Imprint Youth Association and McInnes Cooper.
For more information or to make appointment online for the next free virtual clinic, go to https://unbtransidclinic.wixsite.com/home
Prison law
East Coast Prison Justice Society
East Coast Prison Justice Society is a non-profit organization that acts as a hub for individuals and organizations involved in prison justice advocacy in the Atlantic Provinces. Their work aims to improve conditions for criminalized and incarcerated people through education, research, scholarship and legal support.
Legal Resources: https://www.eastcoastprisonjustice.ca/resources.html
Contact:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ECPJS/
- Email: [email protected]
- Web: www.eastcoastprisonjustice.ca/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Habeas Corpus in Nova Scotia
Habeas Corpus in Nova Scotia: An Accessible Guide (PDF)
An East Coast Prison Justice Society publication, produced in collaboration with the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia and the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton.
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Human Rights Handbook for Prisoners in Provincial Jails
A Handbook for Prisoners in Provincial Jails in Nova Scotia
Published by: Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies with East Coast Prison Justice Society
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Human Rights Handbook for Women Serving Federal Sentences
Human Rights in Action: Handbook for Women Serving Federal Sentences (PDF)
Published by: Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies.
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Elizabeth Fry Societies NS
The Elizabeth Fry Society Mainland Nova Scotia and the Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton are community based organizations that address the criminalization of women and girls in Nova Scotia.
Contact:
Elizabeth Fry Society Mainland Nova Scotia
1 Tulip Street
Dartmouth NS
902-454-5041
Elizabeth Fry Society of Cape Breton
12 Cecelia Levatte Crescent
Sydney NS
902-539-6165
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
John Howard Society NS
John Howard Society of Nova Scotia is a provincial organization whose goal is to understand and respond to problems of crime and the criminal justice system.
Contact:
John Howard Society of Nova ScotiaJohn Howard Society of Nova Scotia
541 Sackville Drive, Suite 1
Lower Sackville NS
902-429-6429
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Prison Law Initiative
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides legal information, advice and representation to Nova Scotians on criminal defence law issues. Contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid for further information, and download their Prison Law Initiative brochure for information about services and areas of prison law covered.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Areas of law: Criminal, Prison law
PATH Legal: Prisoner Advocacy Hub
PATH is a non-profit law firm that provides prison law assistance to its clients. PATH's mandate is to support people who are currently incarcerated with prison law matters and people who have suffered from miscarriage of justice.
Contact:
Website: www.pathlegal.ca
Property law
Land Titles Initiative communities-free legal help to get clear land title
The Land Titles Initiative (LTI) helps residents in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook/Lake Loon, Lincolnville and Sunnyville get clear title to their land at no cost. There are Community Navigators to help all applicants involved in the Land Titles Initiative. Their role is to work directly with residents to help them through the land claims process. There are different ways to get clear land title. The Community Navigators will help you get on the right path and will track the progress on your case. They can also help connect you with other services you may need.
You can call a Community Navigator to ask questions about the status of the title to a parcel within the LTI communities. You do not need to have a land titles claim registered with the LTI. If title is unclear, you may submit an intake application to determine your eligibility for the LTI.
To speak with a Community Navigator or schedule a meeting call toll free: 1-833-424-6100 or email: [email protected]
Renseignements ou conseils juridiques en français
Access Justice Centre
L'Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE)
Pour obtenir de l’information en français ainsi qu’une liste des juristes d’expression française en Nouvelle Écosse, veuillez communiquer avec l’Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE). L’AJEFNE est un organisme à but non lucratif fondé en 1994 pour promouvoir l’accès aux services juridiques pour la population acadienne et francophone de la Nouvelle-Écosse.
- Address: 1741, rue Brunswick, Halifax, Nouvelle-Écosse B3J 3X8
- Téléphone : (902) 433-2085, sans frais : 1-844-250-8471
- www.ajefne.ns.ca/
Cliquez justice
Pour obtenir de l’information en français en ligne, consultez le site web CliquezJustice.ca. CliquezJustice.ca est un portail canadien d’information juridique simplifiée qui aide à comprendre ses droits et obligations pour mieux gérer les situations juridiques du quotidien.
Wills, Power of Attorney, Personal Directives, other estate issues
Make a basic Will for free
Make your Nova Scotia Personal Directive for free
Nova Scotians can make a personal directive using the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia's free online Personal Directive App. You can also download print versions of the information you need to make your Personal Directive.
Go here for more information about making your Personal Directive, and why you need one.
Dalhousie Wills Project
Dalhousie Schulich School of Law Wills Project (activity varies)
When active, the project allows low-income seniors to meet with a lawyer, in the lawyer’s office or at a client’s home within the HRM on request, to get a will, power of attorney, or personal directive done. The project operates during the school year, with a cohort of clients served in the Fall semester and a cohort in the Winter semester. Documents are executed within November and May, depending on the cohort. No client work is done during the Summer. To be eligible for the project, you should have no real property interest (you do not own your home or any land), have an income of less than $25,000 a year, have assets less than $65,000, and should be 65 years of age or older. Criteria are flexible, and those who fall outside the criteria may also use the service if resources permit.
Contact:
- Phone: 902-494-3704
- Email: [email protected]
Areas of law: Draft wills, Power of Attorney, and Personal Directive documents
Youth services
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Advice and Representation for Youth
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides full service representation (start to finish help) to youth between the ages of 12 to 18 on youth criminal justice issues.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Duty Counsel is available for youth in custody and youth at court who do not have a lawyer. Duty Counsel is available 24/7 province-wide for emergency help for youth in police custody (arrested or detained). Available around the province. Contact your local Legal Aid office.
Nova Scotia Legal Aid provides in-office summary legal advice (brief advice) to anyone between the ages of 12 to 18 on social justice issues, including:
- Tickets (for example: Motor Vehicle Act, Protection of Property Act, Liquor Control Act, Off-Highway Vehicles Act tickets)
- School level or school board issues
- Housing
- License suspensions
- Youth Ombudsman, Department of Community Services or Children and Family Services Act cases where you are a party or have a court date
- Protection of Property Act notices where you are prevented from accessing services
- Family court disputes between your parents or guardians where you have questions or want a voice
- Any other situation where you have a question or need an advocate.
All youth between ages 12 to 18 qualify for this service from Legal Aid, regardless of income. Family income does not matter. Click here for more information about Youth Services offered by Nova Scotia Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Your local Legal Aid office at: nslegalaid.ca
- Website: nslegalaid.ca/
- Apply for NS Legal Aid online at: nslegalaid.ca/online-application/
Area of law: youth criminal law, social justice law
Dalhousie Legal Aid Advice and Representation for Youth
Dalhousie Legal Aid provides legal aid services to youth in trouble with the law. For youth criminal issues you must first apply to Nova Scotia Legal Aid before being assigned a lawyer at Dalhousie Legal Aid.
Contact:
- Address: 5746 Russell St. Halifax
- Phone: 902-423-8105
- Website: http://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html
Area of law: youth criminal law
Last reviewed: August 2024
Representing Yourself in Court
Legal Advice vs Legal Information
The difference between information and advice
Information is general. It applies to everyone. Legal information can help you understand:
- general laws and legal processes
- your general legal rights and responsibilities
- when and where to get more legal help, including legal advice.
Advice is tailored. It applies just to you and your situation. Legal advice can help you understand:
- how the law applies to your specific situation
- the best way to act on your legal rights and responsibilities
- the most likely outcome of your case in that lawyer’s opinion.
Legal information can come from lots of different sources, but legal advice can only come from a lawyer.
The line between information and advice
The line between legal information and legal advice is not always clear. If you’re getting legal information from someone, it’s up to them to draw that line and tell you when you need to get a lawyer’s opinion.
Our organization provides legal information, not legal advice. Our staff answer questions about the law, but they are educators whose mission is to educate and inform, not give advice. As a result, there are limits to the nature and number of questions that we can answer.
By law, there are certain things that only a lawyer can do for you in Nova Scotia. For example, only a lawyer can:
- Give legal advice
- Represent you in court
- Represent you in negotiations that affect your legal rights and responsibilities
- Review, select, draft or complete legal documents or agreements that affect your legal rights or responsibilities
- Coach you about what you should say in court or write in a legal document
- Coach you through an entire legal procedure
- Provide you with highly detailed legal information (zooming in) on a specific law, legal issue, or legal process that affects your case.
- Give you a case assessment, for example, by:
- expressing a legal opinion about your case
- telling you what you should do about it
- giving you an estimate of the value of a claim
- or offering a prediction about the outcome of your case
Here is more information about free and low-cost legal help in Nova Scotia.
And here is more information about how to find a lawyer in private practice (a lawyer you would pay).
Mediation
Mediation is a process for resolving conflict. It is an alternative to court.
Mediation is:
- voluntary
- private
- confidential.
The parties have sole control over the outcome. Mediation is often used when parties to a conflict have failed to work the issue out for themselves. Mediation is about cooperative problem-solving.
Mediation is a process that involves a mediator, who is appointed by both parties, to help the parties find common ground and reach a mutually agreeable outcome, if possible. Mediators are neutral, impartial professionals. Mediators do not provide legal advice.
Can Mediation help me solve my problem?
Mediation is a process that allows people in conflict to discuss the situation in a private setting. People with problems, conflicts or disagreements can talk with each other and make decisions about their situation in a supportive environment. Mediation can help people resolve their problems and settle their disputes.
Who can benefit from mediation?
Neighbors, families, parents, community groups, co-workers and people in litigation can benefit from mediation. Mediation can be used for just about every kind of conflict.
What does the mediator do?
The mediator facilitates discussion between people in conflict so they can have the difficult conversations they need to have. The people in conflict can say what they need to say and be heard and hear the other persons as well. Mediation’s greatest value is not only to find solutions to people’s problems but to change how people in conflict behave toward each other: mediators help with this process.
How does mediation work?
It starts with all the parties involved agreeing to try mediation to resolve their problems. The mediator, who does not have decision making authority, may meet with each of the parties before the mediation to gather some information and to explain to the parties what to expect. A date is then set for the mediation. Often one session is all that is required.
What happens during mediation?
Pre-Mediation Stage
This is a stage where a mediator prepares for mediation. It is used to assess the dispute and the parties' willingness to negotiate and to arrange the meetings. At this stage the parties receive information about the process and how to prepare for the first meeting.
Commitment Stage
This is generally a session where the mediator explains to the parties the process and procedures. The parties explain their issues, priorities and hear those of the other party(ies). This is the first opportunity for the parties to learn if there is a willingness to work through the issues in order to reach a settlement. The parties begin to develop a cooperative relationship and some confidence in the mediation process and the mediator.
Negotiation Stage
The parties develop a mutual understanding of the interests underlying the issues and generate possible options for settlement. Where issues of disagreement exist, objective criteria are used as tools of persuasion. The mediator may meet separately with parties (caucus) and have joint sessions. The parties with authority to settle must be part of the negotiations at this stage.
Settlement Stage
Options for settlement are evaluated based on general principles and specific objective standards. Options are evaluated as possible solutions. Outside advice regarding possible solutions is sought. The processes for reaching and documenting agreement are discussed. When all parties are satisfied with the solutions, an agreement outlining the areas of agreement in clear, specific language is prepared.
What are some of the benefits of mediation?
Mediations are private and confidential; the court process is public and not confidential. They do not require forms and people in conflict do not have to follow complicated steps to get to mediation: the court system is all about forms, Rules and processes which can be very complicated for the ordinary person to follow. Mediations are quick, efficient and often much less expensive than court. Because problems can be addressed sooner, the parties are spared the emotional turmoil of ongoing conflict.
Voluntary Participation
Parties who enter into mediation do so freely. They are not forced to negotiate or settle but do so of their own free will.
Timeliness
The parties set their own timelines for the process. It is not controlled by court dates or waiting periods. Normally, the process can be arranged directly, between the parties and a mediator, to be held at a time and place convenient to the parties with little or no delay.
Saves Money
A mediator can normally provide an estimate of the cost of the process at the beginning. Evidence suggests that conflicts handled through mediation are most often much less expensive than the cost of going to court. The ability to choose an informed mediator usually increases the opportunity for cost savings.
Confidentiality
Mediation sessions are held in private and all proceedings are confidential to the mediator and the participating parties. Mediators usually cannot be called upon to give evidence, in any action that may follow the mediation, about any matters that were discussed during the mediation.
Supports the Parties
Parties who reach their own decisions through mediation have more influence on the outcome of their dispute as they remain in control of the decision-making process. This is very different from arbitration or going to court where the decision-making authority is with the arbitrator or judge. The mediator has no decision-making authority and is there to help the parties understand each other.
Practical Solutions
Parties who mediate their conflicts are able to consider the details of implementation. Settlements can be specially tailored to meet the parties’ needs.
Maintains Relationships
Because mediation addresses the parties’ interests and seeks to achieve a win for all involved, the process is non-adversarial compared to going to court. There is a greater likelihood of parties maintaining relationships through a mediation process.
Stopping the Process
As mediation is voluntary it can be stopped by any party at any time and it in no way affects pursuing another option for resolving the conflict.
Is mediation appropriate in abuse cases?
Although mediation is an alternative to court, it is not usually suitable for situations involving abuse, because of the imbalance of power in abusive relationships. It is important in mediation that all parties are able to take part in the process without feeling afraid, intimidated, controlled, pressured or coerced into coming to an "agreement". If there is a history of abuse or violence in the relationship between the parties mediation may in some cases provide an opportunity for further abuse, and may heighten safety risks.
If you are considering mediation it is very important to tell the mediator, and your lawyer (if you have one), about any abuse.
If you are speaking with a mediator to explore whether mediation would be right for you, and they do not ask you questions to screen for abuse or safety concerns, consider a different mediator.
Can my lawyer be our mediator?
How can I find a mediator?
You can find a mediator through:
- ADR Atlantic Institute - find a mediator, arbitrator, or other dispute resolution professional in Atlantic Canada. Members of ADR Atlantic Institute adhere to the Rules and Codes of Conduct & Ethics of the ADR Institute of Canada.
- ADR Canada Connect - find an alternative dispute resolution professional Canada-wide
- Family Mediation Canada - find a family law mediator
- Mediators are also listed in the Yellow Pages under "Mediation-Services" and "Marriage, Family & Individual Counsellors", or look online
- The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia offers a Mediator Referral Service.
More information about mediation
- ADR Institute of Canada: information about various ways to resolve disputes without going to court
- Family Law Nova Scotia: Family Mediation - www.nsfamilylaw.ca/services/court/mediation
- Judicial Mediation at the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal - courts.ns.ca/Appeal_Court/NSCA_mediation_program.htm
Complaints
Complaints about a lawyer
Making a complaint about a lawyer
The Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society regulates lawyers in Nova Scotia. Part of their role is to enforce the rules of ethical and professional conduct (Code of Professional Conduct) that lawyers must follow. They can take complaints from the public about possible breaches of the Code of Professional Conduct and may discipline a lawyer if they have broken those rules.
The Nova Scotia Barristers' Society does not deal with complaints about a lawyer's fees (see Disputes about a lawyer's bill) and cannot order your lawyer to compensate you financially.
The Barristers’ Society is concerned with protecting the public in general. A complaint to the Barristers’ Society is mainly about protecting the public, not fixing something in your case.
If you are in a dispute with your lawyer, contact the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society directly if you have questions about their complaint process.
If you believe your lawyer was negligent, you will likely need to speak with another lawyer to get a legal opinion. You can also contact the Lawyers' Insurance Association of Nova Scotia, so they know about your possible negligence claim. This not-for-profit company provides mandatory liability insurance for lawyers who are practising, insured members of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society.
Go to the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society website at nsbs.org/concerns-with-a-lawyer/ for details about the complaint process, or contact the Barristers’ Society at:
Telephone: (902) 422-1491
Address: Cogswell Tower, 800-2000 Barrington Street, Halifax NS B3J 3K1.
Disputes about a lawyer's bill
The Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society does not get involved with billing disputes. If you have a complaint about your lawyer's professionalism or competence, you can submit a complaint to the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, but they will not adjust your bill. Only the lawyer, their law firm, or an Adjudicator in Small Claims Court can adjust your bill.
So, if you have a dispute with your lawyer about the lawyer’s bill:
1. Speak with or write to your lawyer.
- Ask for more detailed information about the bill.
- Ask the lawyer to explain any fees or disbursements (out-of-pocket expenses) you do not understand.
2. If the lawyer works at a law firm and you cannot resolve the dispute directly with the lawyer, see if you can speak with the law firm's managing lawyer or executive director (assuming it is not your lawyer). If that does not work, or if that is not possible in your case, you have the option of going to Small Claims Court to have the lawyer’s bill assessed. This assessment of a lawyer's bill is also called a "taxation" of a lawyer's bill.
3. Small Claims Court - Taxation. ‘Taxation’ means a Small Claims Court adjudicator can ‘tax’ or review your lawyer’s bill, including fees and disbursements, to decide whether the bill is reasonable. The taxation process includes determining whether the percentage fee under a contingency agreement is reasonable.
Contact the Small Claims Court for more information. You will find court contact information at www.courts.ns.ca or look under ‘Courts’ in the government pages of the telephone book.
Last reviewed: May 2024