This page provides information about the different free and low cost legal services that are offered by organizations across Nova Scotia. Services include legal advice and representation, legal information, and help with resolving disputes without going to court.
If you cannot find what you are looking for, please call Legal Information Nova Scotia's free Legal Information Line at 1-800-665-9779 or 902-455-3135, or email us at [email protected] and we will try to help.
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 2022