Service targeted to:

• residents of Alberta
• who are unrepresented at first court apperance

Priority given to accused persons in custody. Individuals can access assistance from duty counsel regardless of whether they meet Legal Aid Alberta's financial eligibility criteria.

To access service:

• call for advice up to 2 weeks before your first court appearance if charged with a criminal offence
• call before 11:00 AM on the day of court and request to speak with a lawyer if your adult criminal matter has court scheduled within the next day or if calling on the day of your court appearance (after 11:00 AM contact the courthouse directly)
• if appearing in court attend the courthouse on the day your matter is being heard and ask to speak to duty counsel
• for emergency protection orders or Mental Health Review panel hearings contact prior to attending court as duty counsel only appears as needed for these issues
• visit website for more details

Duty counsel services continue to be provided at courthouses across the province. Due to COVID-19, some services may be provided by phone or CCTV.