Navigator Programs in Canada (English, HTML)

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Publisher-reported update

2023-01-27

This Research in Brief describes navigator programs in Canada, a people-focused approach to enhancing access to justice by providing assistance to those with serious legal problems. The Department of Justice Canada uses a definition of access to justice that is broad and recognizes the importance of informal resolution, as much as resolution through tribunals or courts: Enabling Canadians to obtain the information and assistance they need to help prevent legal issues from arising and help them to resolve such issues efficiently, affordably, and fairly, either through informal resolution mechanisms, where possible, or the formal justice system, when necessary. Keeping this definition in mind, existing barriers make it extremely challenging for individuals who are economically or otherwise vulnerable - for example, due to language, literacy, or disability - to gain access to legal information, support or advice, and navigate through the justice system, whether this is mediation, a court or tribunal process, or even completing necessary paperwork. This is particularly an issue for self-representing litigants who may not possess the necessary information about their options or the…

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