“I do think there is room for the legislation to change,” [Tammy] Wohler said. “That we can take into account things like a housing crisis.” There continues to be a need to strengthen the protections for tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act.

See article and interview at CBC News Article – January 10, 2025

We believe decision-makers can, and should, take judicial notice of the housing crisis. It is widely known and accepted that there is a housing crisis in Halifax and in communities across the province. Credible sources have repeatedly recognized this.

Last week StatsCan released data showing 66% of Nova Scotians experienced a housing challenge related to affordability, suitability, condition or discrimination last year. The Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia says that last month more than 1,200 people were unhoused in HRM.

Below please find a press release issued by the Province today and it can also be found here, https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/05/16/more-funding-legal-aid-services, regarding increased funding for Legal Aid. Below you will also find a copy of NSLA’s press release. This investment will enable Nova Scotia Legal Aid to continue to provide high-quality, caring and dedicated legal services to clients.

Further updates will be communicated to Certificate Lawyers and other stakeholders as Nova Scotia Legal Aid makes the necessary adjustments to its Certificate System and Tariff.

More Funding for Legal Aid Services – Government of Nova Scotia News Release (May 16, 2024)

NS Legal Aid Commission Tariff News Release (May 16, 2024)

Nova Scotia Legal Aid is excited to announce our Enhanced Financial Eligibility Program, currently being piloted exclusively for the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and Victoria County area. Further details regarding the pilot can be found below.

Changes to the Province’s rent supplement program will expand eligibility for low-income seniors and put more money in the pockets of seniors who receive the supplement.

“We know many people are struggling to find an affordable place to live and a rent supplement can help with the cost of rent – especially for low-income seniors,” said John Lohr, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “I made a commitment to Nova Scotians to do whatever I can to ensure as many people as possible have access to safe and affordable housing, faster. We are looking at our programs and practices and making changes that will make a difference to Nova Scotians in need.”

Effective today, October 10, Nova Scotia, with the support of the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), is changing the criteria used to determine seniors’ eligibility for the supplement and the formula for the amount they can receive.

The criteria and formula had both used 95 per cent of the average market rent in the senior’s area rather than the full amount. Now, 100 per cent of the average market rent is used, which means more seniors will qualify and the supplement increases.

With the eligibility change, more than 100 low-income seniors could qualify for a supplement. Seniors who have previously applied to the program but did not qualify must reapply.

Details regarding this program can be found at:  Rent Supplement Program

Below please find information regarding the above-noted which you may wish to share within your community. Further information regarding Duty Counsel Day can be found at: National Duty Counsel Day.

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Hey teachers!
If you like justice, we have a day for you. October 27 is Duty Counsel Day. Deliver informative, curriculum-based lessons based on the role of legal aid duty counsel in the Canadian justice system. Our free lesson library is full of ideas you can download and use for your classroom or virtual classroom. Register now for your free teaching kit.

Duty Counsel Day in the Classroom (knowdutycounsel.ca)

The Family Online Chat scheduled for May 30, 2023 and the Social Justice Online Chat scheduled for May 31, 2023 have been cancelled due to the forest fires and affected staff. We are hopeful that online chats will be back on schedule next week. We appreciate your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience.

We are pleased to share that the first recipient of the NSLA Commission’s R. Gordon Murray, KC Award is Roger Burrill. The award is given based on Murray’s legacy to recognize the impact a recipient has on the legal aid movement. The award recognizes that legal aid is a living evolving pillar of justice and fairness. Roger embodies the values of NSLA: excellence, respect, client focused, fearlessness and collaboration. The advocacy he has provided extends beyond this province and has had an impact across the country, including most recently his role as senior Commission Counsel for the Mass Casualty Commission. As Gordon said himself in an email response read to Roger on the evening of his award presentation, “Roger Burrill raises the bar for what the award is meant to be. Roger is a brilliant lawyer whose social conscience has formed his career. Roger is a modest man who uses his talents to fight for his clients and not to promote himself. Roger has added to the quality of Legal Aid.” Congratulations Roger!

We are pleased to share that the recipient of the NSLA Commission’s 2022 Community Leadership Award is Maureen Kakonyi. The award recognizes the exceptional and selfless services to others using personal time that enhances the image of NSLA and increases public awareness of those who work for NSLA. Maureen has been an active community member for many years and most recently hosted a Tea Party at the Dartmouth Family Office bringing together 14 different community organizations to share information about each other’s services and the services NSLA provides. Well done, Maureen!

In Nova Scotia, the following landmarks will be lit up to help celebrate National Duty Counsel Day on October 27, 2022:

• The Big Fiddle in Sydney
• Halifax City Hall
• The Nova Scotia Legislature

Due to Hurricane Fiona, many places are closed due to damages and/or no power/internet. In a lot of situations, staff are working from home where possible.

If you are represented by NSLA, please be sure to contact your lawyer if you have a scheduled court matter. Here is a list of Nova Scotia Legal Aid Offices: https://www.nslegalaid.ca/legal-aid-offices/

Here is information shared by the courts regarding court matters:  https://www.courts.ns.ca/documents/NS_Courts_Prepare_for_Fiona_09_23_22.pdf

Here is information shared by the NS government regarding office closures: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20220925004

For updates on power outages: http://outagemap.nspower.ca/external/default.html

For a listing of comfort centers:  https://novascotia.ca/alerts/comfort-centres-and-shelters/. Please note that a lot of communities share information locally regarding Lion’s Clubs, community centers and fire departments that are open to assist, so please be sure to check what is available in your community.

Our Executive Office is moving on September 9, 2022. Our new address is:

Executive Office
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
710-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS, B3J 3M8

The only change is suite number. Please update your records.

The Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission is seeking nominations for the 2022 Innovation in Service Delivery, Community Leadership, and R. Gordon Murray, QC Awards. Criteria and information regarding the Awards can be found below. Please be sure to nominate that individual or organization that you feel is deserving of recognition.

Please note the deadline for nominations is July 30, 2022 @ 12:00 pm and nominations should be sent to:  NSLAawards@nslegalaid.ca

PDF Version of Criteria:  2022 NSLA Awards Criteria

We are pleased to share that Samira Zayid is the new Director of Legal Services for Nova Scotia Legal Aid effective April 25, 2022.

Samira is entering her 29th year as a lawyer and has spent 26 of those years at Nova Scotia Legal Aid. She first came to NSLA as an Articled Clerk and after a brief 2-year period in private practice, she returned NSLA and has never left.

She has spent her time at Legal Aid practicing exclusively in the field of family law. This has meant helping our clients deal with many problems in the areas of child protection, custody, parenting, support, and divorce.

In 2018, Samira became the Managing Lawyer of the Dartmouth Family Office, which then expanded to include management of the Child Protection Practice Group when that office opened in 2020.

She has also found time over the years to sit on many different committees including:

• Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society Family Law Standards Committee
• Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society Bench & Bar Supreme Court Liaison Committee (Family Division)
• Halifax Domestic Violence Court (Subcommittee assisting in the implementation)
• Supreme Court of Nova Scotia (Family Division) Child Protection (Bench & Bar)
• Nova Scotia Maintenance Enforcement Program Review Committee
• NSLA’s Children & Family Services Act Committee

Samira has also volunteered as a facilitator at the Supreme Court Family Division for the Parent Information Program continuously since 1996.

Congratulations Samira and welcome to your new role!

We are pleased to share the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission’s 2022-23 Business Plan,  The Business Plan can also be found in Legal Aid Publications under the About Us tab.

NSLAC 2022-2023 Business Plan

The ban on ending a tenant’s lease for the purpose of renovations will be lifted when the
state of emergency ends at 11:59 p.m. on March 20, 2022. Please see the fact sheet below to learn about important changes on renovictions and rent caps.

Fact Sheet for Residential Tenants and Landlords (March 2022)

We are investigating issues with our online chat program. Due to these issues our Tuesday (Family) and Wednesday (Social Justice) chat sessions have been suspended. Thank you, and sorry for any inconvenience.

Below are links to videos from judges and justices in Nova Scotia regarding duty counsel. It’s Access to Justice Week (Oct. 25-29) and these videos confirm the importance of duty counsel in the justice system.

Chief Judge Pamela Williams

Associate Chief Justice Lawrence O’Neil

Chief Justice Michael Wood

To view all videos from across Canada, please visit:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDP752KlF_dR3TJxubrzrcVA-sWXVCKIC

Karen Hudson, QC is the Acting Chief Executive Officer of NSLA. This is a temporary appointment until the new CEO is in place. Karen was formerly the Executive Director of NSLA and Chair of the Association of Legal Aid Plans of Canada until her appointment in 2016 as the Deputy Minister of Justice.

Anyone can suddenly find themselves in the justice system. It’s important we know our rights and how to exercise them. It’s so important that it’s in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Most Canadians know about access to services like healthcare. Few know we have similar access to legal services. Let’s change that. Know your rights. Know duty counsel.

National Duty Counsel Day will be held on October 27, 2021 featuring:

• Adrienne Clarkson, 26th Governor General of Canada
• Karen Wilford, Chair, Association of Legal Aid Plans of Canada
• Chief Justice Richard Wagner, Supreme Court of Canada
• Patti Laboucane-Benson, Senator, Alberta
• Q&A with duty counsel lawyers from across Canada
• Music performance
• Special guest messages

For more information visit:  https://www.knowdutycounsel.ca/

View videos regarding Duty Counsel on the above website or on YouTube at:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4he7NrWx56XcpKFXZvD4JA

Be sure to register at: Duty Counsel Day – National Virtual Event Tickets, Wed, 27 Oct 2021 at 3:00 PM | Eventbrite

This year on August 1^st Nova Scotia will mark Emancipation Day as an officially designated day for the first time. We encourage everyone to reflect on the history of the Province as well as consider positive steps you can take toward ending anti-Black racism.

Ideas on how to recognize Emancipation Day can be found here: http://emancipationdayns.ca/

History from Nova Scotia can be found here: https://archives.novascotia.ca/africanns/

Nova Scotia Legal Aid is finalizing a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategic Plan. The Plan will include development of improved policies regarding hiring and retention, and strategies to ensure NSLA is practicing anti-Black racism in our internal and external work. Thank you to NSLA’s Equity and Racial Diversity Committee (ERDC) for leading this work and to everyone who participated.

Some other highlights of recent and ongoing work at NSLA include:

• Engaging the recommendations under the Marshall Inquiry specific to Legal Aid by:
  • The training for all staff, and approving two lawyers auditing the African Nova Scotians and the Law course at Schulich; and
  • Creating a permanent African Nova Scotian Social Worker to support our clients in criminal and child protection proceedings.
• Leadership in creation and development of Impact of Race and Culture Assessments, including supporting an intervention in the Anderson case before the Court of Appeal.
• We are looking forward to supporting and collaborating with the newly funded African Nova Scotian Justice Institute.

Nova Scotia Legal Aid is pleased to have its application approved as a participant in the inquiry. As participants in several different aspects of the justice system, NSLA’s systemic and institutional knowledge as well as its client-focused perspective would be different from that of others in the system. Below is a link to the CBC article “Commission examining N.S. mass killing announces inquiry participants” outlining the approved participants.

CBC Article

For the 2021 tax season, many community organizations are hosting free virtual tax clinics. Volunteers may be able to complete and file your taxes for free, by videoconference or by phone. Find further information and locations on Canada Revenue Agency’s website at:

https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/free-tax-help.html

Below please some information regarding the 2021 Home Warming Program.  Further details can be found here:  https://www.efficiencyns.ca/residential/programs-services/homewarming/?gclid=eaiaiqobchmiv-jt37mo7wivkk1ych2_uqf5eaayasaaegjnvpd_bwe

HomeWarming offers home energy assessments and upgrades for income-qualified homeowners, at no cost. The goal is to have people living on lower incomes benefit from energy efficiency and feel comfortable in their homes. For qualifying homeowners, if upgrades like draft-proofing and insulation will help reduce heating and power bills, upgrades will be installed at absolutely no cost to you. The application can be found here:  HW Application March 2021

Below please find a link to the above-noted opinion article by Ashley Avery & Emma Halpern:

https://www.thechronicleherald.ca/opinion/local-perspectives/ashley-avery-emma-halpern-vulnerable-women-in-nova-scotia-ending-up-on-the-streets-or-behind-bars-523422/

Efforts by Emma and Ashley in educating and advocating regarding the challenges faced by individuals is greatly appreciated. The work of The Elizabeth Fry Society and Coverdale Courtwork Society is essential to our clients and to Nova Scotia.

The Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission’s 2019-20 Annual Report is now available and can be found on the About Us, Legal Aid Publications page, or at this link:  2019-20 Annual Report

On Saturday, August 15, 2020, Tammy Wohler, Social Justice Office, participated in the above-noted workshop. If you missed the workshop, you can view the video here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozlOyYCwgL8&feature=youtu.be

Statement by Nova Scotia Legal Aid on Black Lives Matter Movement

Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) acknowledges the triggering of pain, anger, frustration and trauma for African Nova Scotian communities and people of African descent worldwide from the recent traumatic deaths in the Unites States of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and, in Canada, Regis Korchinski-Paquet. NSLA further acknowledges that this is tied to a legacy of enslavement and segregation dating back hundreds of years.

Issues of systemic racism and injustice are Canadian and Nova Scotian issues as well, as evidenced recently by the Wortley and MacDonald reports, and the continued over-incarceration of people of African descent and over-representation in child protection systems. NSLA recognizes that these are issues of fundamental human rights, not just issues of racialized people.

Nova Scotia Legal Aid has committed to fighting systemic racism through our Mandate and Strategic Plan. Our Strategic Plan includes the following:

Our commitment to enhancing access to justice with a focus on economically vulnerable and historically disadvantaged Nova Scotians continues. In meeting that commitment, we recognize the over-representation of Indigenous and African Nova Scotians in criminal and child protection systems and are, therefore, committed to:

• Responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action as Nova Scotia Legal Aid has a key role to play as the front line in our family and criminal justice systems.
• Providing culturally responsive service to Indigenous and African Nova Scotian clients through the education of our staff and by bringing cultural impact to the forefront on matters before the courts.

As an organization, we know making that statement is not enough and that we must act on it.  We have a lot to still learn; we can and must do better.

Nova Scotia Legal Aid offers support in many different ways, including through our African Nova Scotian Social Worker and ongoing cultural proficiency education to improve service offered and awareness of issues by our staff. In addition to family law, social justice and criminal law advice and representation, NSLA provides representation to African Nova Scotians who lack clear title to their historic land as part of the Land Titles Initiative. NSLA’s Equity & Racial Diversity Committee works to support staff, advise the Executive, and ensure culturally safe and relevant service is offered to our clients. If you think we may be able to help you access better justice, please reach out.

NSLA calls on our justice system partners to join us in identifying and speaking out against all forms of racism and bias; to educate themselves and their organizations on the ways racism and bias manifest and the impact of historic and present racism on individuals and communities; and to support and join African Nova Scotians and the Black Lives Matter movement in denouncing and eliminating racism and inequality.

PDF Version:  NSLA Statement on Black Lives Matter Movement

Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA), Maintenance Enforcement Program (MEP) and Court Services have coordinated to establish new ways to help for support variations during COVID-19. FAQs for payors and recipients can be found here:  Support Variations During COVID-19 Pilot FAQs

Below is a link to the above-noted article wherein Josh Nodelman, Halifax South, discusses summary offence tickets issued because of COVID-19.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/covid-19-summary-offence-tickets-legal-aid-lawyer-help-nova-scotia-1.5567487

Obtaining a Peace Bond

Do you need advice on obtaining a peace bond?

Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) is committed to assisting people applying for peace bond orders.  A peace bond is a court order to stay away from a person(s) or property and is issued by a Judge or Justice of the Peace upon reviewing evidence and hearing witnesses.  A peace bond lasts for one year.  If you are fearful of your safety or the safety of someone in your family, you may want to consider seeking a peace bond, in addition to other safety planning steps.

NSLA recognizes that the process of applying for and appearing in court to request the peace bond order can be difficult and we are here to help.  NSLA Staff Lawyers can assist by explaining the steps required to begin a peace bond application and then explaining the court process.  Peace bond hearings will take place over the telephone as part of the courts of Nova Scotia’s ongoing response to COVID-19.

If you are seeking assistance to apply for a peace bond, you can contact Nova Scotia Legal Aid at 902-420-7800 or apply online at: https://www.nslegalaid.ca/online-application/. A lawyer will contact you and provide you with confidential advice and assistance.

PDF Version:  Peace Bonds

Temporay Leave of Absences
Looking for Anwers?

NSLA can assist you with applying for a temporary leave of absence (TA) if:

• You have less than 90 days left to serve on your sentence; and
• You have an address where you will be able to reside for the duration of your TA.

For further information please contact the NSLA office that provides criminal Legal Services to the court where you received your sentence.

The contact numbers for the various offices of NSLA who provide criminal law services are as follows:

Employment Insurance/Canada Emergency Response Benefit & COVID-19
Updated 04/20/20

During the COVID-19 public health crisis, Nova Scotia Legal Aid continues to provide legal services to individuals regarding Employment Insurance (EI) matters. Current clients and new applicants may suddenly be facing a loss of income and have questions relating to accessing regular or sickness Employment Insurance Benefits, or the new Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).

At this time, individuals can apply for Legal Aid over the phone by calling their local office, or online at https://www.nslegalaid.ca/online-application/. They can also chat online with a Social Justice lawyer on Wednesdays from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.  For more information on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, please see below.

Who is eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)?
The benefit is intended for those who have lost employment or self-employment income because of COVID-19. This includes workers who have lost their job, are sick, quarantined, are taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19, and working parents who must stay at home without pay due to school or daycare closures.

Workers aged 15 and older who have stopped working because of COVID-19 and who will be expected to be without an income for at least 14 consecutive days are eligible for the CERB if they have had income of at least $5,000 in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application. 

Do I need a certain number of hours to be eligible for the CERB?
No. Unlike regular EI benefits, the CERB does not require that applicants have worked a certain number of hours.

Do I need to have earned a certain amount of income to be eligible for the CERB?
Yes. Applicants must have earned at least $5,000 in income in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application. This income can be from employment, self-employment, maternity and parental benefits under the EI program and/or similar benefits paid in Quebec under the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan.

How do I apply for the CERB?
Individuals can apply online if they have registered for a Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account or a My Service Canada Account. Otherwise they can apply over the phone with an automated phone service. Applications will open on Monday, April 6, 2020.

In order to streamline the applications process, Service Canada has designated specific days for individuals to apply based on what month of the year in which they were born. Individuals are being encouraged to use the following guidelines to determine what day to apply for the benefit:

Do I need to get a ROE from my employer to apply for the CERB?
No. You do not need a Record of Employment (ROE) to apply for the CERB. You will need to know your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and postal code in order to verify your identity.

How long will I have to wait before I start receiving payments?
After you have applied for the CERB, you should receive your first payment within 3 business days if you have signed up for direct deposit. If you haven’t signed up for direct deposit, you can expect to receive your first payment within 10 business days.

How much money will I receive?
Applicants who are eligible for the CERB will receive $500 per week for a 4-week period. The amount for the 4-week period will be paid to you as a single payment of $2,000.

How long does the benefit last?
Once you apply, you will receive the benefit for 4 weeks. After the initial 4-week period, if you are still without work, you can re-apply for another 4-week period, up to a maximum of 16 weeks.

What if I’m still receiving some income from employment/self-employment but it’s been reduced because of COVID-19? Am I still eligible for the CERB?
You may be eligible for the CERB if you have earned $1,000 or less in employment and/or self-employment income for 14 or more consecutive days in the first 4-week benefit period of your claim. For subsequent claims, you cannot have earned more than $1,000 in employment and/or self-employment income for the entire 4-week benefit period of your new claim.

My employer hasn’t laid me off, but I don’t have any hours and have not been receiving any income, am I eligible for the CERB?
Yes. Even if you are still technically employed, but you aren’t working due to COVID-19 restrictions, you can apply for the CERB. You must have no employment income for 14 consecutive days during the initial 4-week period.

Can I apply for the CERB even if I’m eligible for regular or sickness EI benefits?
Yes. If you became eligible for EI regular or sickness benefits on March 15, 2020 or later, your EI claim will automatically be processed as a CERB claim.

What if I select the wrong benefit category when I apply for EI? Can I change or update my application?
If you have applied for regular or sickness EI benefits on or after March 15, 2020 but lost work due to COVID-19, then your application will be automatically processed as a CERB application. If you would be entitled to more than the CERB amount under regular EI benefits you will not get the higher amount. You will retain your eligibility for regular benefits after you stopped receiving the CERB. If you are concerned about an error on your application for benefits, contact Service Canada at 1-800-206-7218.

What if the CERB monthly amount is more than my current monthly income? Will I receive the full $2,000?
Yes. When you apply for the CERB and are deemed eligible, you will receive the full amount of the benefit regardless of what your monthly income was prior to having lost your employment.

If I applied for EI regular benefits or EI sickness benefits before the CERB was announced will I receive the CERB or the benefit I applied for?
If you lost work due to COVID-19 and applied for EI regular or sickness benefits on or after March 15, 2020, your application will automatically be processed as a CERB application.

What if I’m currently receiving regular EI benefits? Will I still receive my payments?
Yes. If you have an open EI claim that is unrelated to COVID-19, your benefits should not be interrupted by the introduction of the CERB. You should still receive your regular EI payments.

What if my regular EI benefits have ended? Can I apply for the CERB?
If you are receiving regular EI benefits that end before October 3, 2020, you can apply for the CERB once your regular benefits have ended. You must meet the eligibility criteria for the CERB.

Can I still apply for other EI benefits, including maternity, parental, caregiving, fishing and work-sharing?
Yes. If you meet the eligibility requirements for other EI benefits, you can still apply as you normally would.

Do I have to pay taxes on my CERB payments?
Yes. All EI benefits are considered taxable income by the CRA, including the CERB. You will need to report any CERB payments received when you file your 2020 taxes.

Am I eligible for the CERB if my only source of income is Income Assistance, CPP, or another type of government benefit?
No. The CERB is a benefit intended for those who have had interruptions in earned income. These types of government benefits are considered unearned income. However, your government benefits should not be affected by COVID-19. You should still be receiving Income Assistance, CPP payments, etc.

What if I’m a student and now unable to find summer employment?
You may be eligible if you were working part-time and lost employment due to COVID-19 and meet the other eligibility criteria. If you were a student and you were not working, you are not eligible for the CERB.

What if I was working outside of Canada?
If you have earned $5,000 in 2019 or within the 12-month period prior to applying for the benefit, it does not matter whether that income was earned in Canada or not. You must reside in Canada to eligible for the benefit.

What if I am not a Canadian citizen?
Permanent residents and temporary residents who have Social Insurance Numbers are eligible for the benefit if they are residing in Canada. A SIN is required for these individuals to work in Canada or to receive benefits and services from government programs.

What if I am a temporary foreign worker?
If you are a temporary foreign worker or international student, you may be eligible for the CERB if you meet the other eligibility factors. Contact Service Canada for more information.

What if I’m newly self-employed and haven’t yet earned any income?
You may be eligible for the CERB if you cannot earn any self-employment income due to COVID-19 and you meet the other eligibility criteria.

Other Resources:
Service Canada information on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/cerb-application.html

How to Apply for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/apply-for-cerb-with-cra.html

PDF Version:  COVID 19 EI and CERB (April 20, 2020)

Employment Insurance/Canada Emergency Response Benefit & COVID-19

During the COVID-19 public health crisis, Nova Scotia Legal Aid continues to provide legal services to individuals regarding Employment Insurance (EI) matters. Current clients and new applicants may suddenly be facing a loss of income and have questions relating to accessing regular or sickness Employment Insurance Benefits, or the new Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).

At this time, individuals can apply for Legal Aid over the phone by calling their local office, or online at https://www.nslegalaid.ca/online-application/. They can also chat online with a Social Justice lawyer on Wednesdays from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.  For more information on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, please see below.

Who is eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)?
The benefit is intended for those who have lost employment or self-employment income because of COVID-19. This includes workers who have lost their job, are sick, quarantined, are taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19, and working parents who must stay at home without pay due to school or daycare closures.

Workers aged 15 and older who have stopped working because of COVID-19 and who will be expected to be without an income for at least 14 consecutive days are eligible for the CERB if they have had income of at least $5,000 in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application.

Do I need a certain number of hours to be eligible for the CERB?
No. Unlike regular EI benefits, the CERB does not require that applicants have worked a certain number of hours.

Do I need to have earned a certain amount of income to be eligible for the CERB?
Yes. Applicants must have earned at least $5,000 in income in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application. This income can be from employment, self-employment, maternity and parental benefits under the EI program and/or similar benefits paid in Quebec under the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan.

How do I apply for the CERB?
Individuals can apply online if they have registered for a Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account or a My Service Canada Account. Otherwise they can apply over the phone with an automated phone service. Applications will open on Monday, April 6, 2020.

In order to streamline the applications process, Service Canada has designated specific days for individuals to apply based on what month of the year in which they were born. Individuals are being encouraged to use the following guidelines to determine what day to apply for the benefit:

Do I need to get a ROE from my employer to apply for the CERB?
No. You do not need a Record of Employment (ROE) to apply for the CERB. You will need to know your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and postal code in order to verify your identity. 

How long will I have to wait before I start receiving payments?
After you have applied for the CERB, you should receive your first payment within 3 business days if you have signed up for direct deposit. If you haven’t signed up for direct deposit, you can expect to receive your first payment within 10 business days.

How much money will I receive?
Applicants who are eligible for the CERB will receive $500 per week for a 4-week period. The amount for the 4-week period will be paid to you as a single payment of $2,000.

How long does the benefit last?
Once you apply, you will receive the benefit for 4 weeks. After the initial 4-week period, if you are still without work, you can re-apply for another 4-week period, up to a maximum of 16 weeks.

What if I’m still receiving some income from employment/self-employment but it’s been reduced because of COVID-19? Am I still eligible for the CERB?
No. If you are still working, you are not eligible for the CERB.

My employer hasn’t laid me off, but I don’t have any hours and have not been receiving any income, am I eligible for the CERB?
Yes. Even if you are still technically employed, but you aren’t working due to COVID-19 restrictions, you can apply for the CERB. You must have no employment income for 14 consecutive days during the initial 4-week period.

Can I apply for the CERB even if I’m eligible for regular or sickness EI benefits?
Yes, as long as the reason you have stopped working is due to COVID-19.

What if I select the wrong benefit category when I apply for EI? Can I change or update my application?
If you have applied for regular or sickness EI benefits on or after March 15, 2020 but lost work due to COVID-19, then your application will be automatically processed as a CERB application. If you would be entitled to more than the CERB amount under regular EI benefits you will not get the higher amount. You will retain your eligibility for regular benefits after you stopped receiving the CERB.

If you are concerned about an error on your application for benefits, contact Service Canada at 1-800-206-7218.

If I applied for EI regular benefits or EI sickness benefits before the CERB was announced will I receive the CERB or the benefit I applied for?
If you lost work for a reason unrelated to COVID-19, you should apply for EI through the regular stream. If you lost work due to COVID-19 and applied for EI regular or sickness benefits on or after March 15, 2020, your application will automatically be processed as a CERB application.

What if the CERB monthly amount is more than my current monthly income? Will I receive the full $2,000?
Yes. When you apply for the CERB and are deemed eligible, you will receive the full amount of the benefit regardless of what your monthly income was prior to having lost your employment.

What if I’m currently receiving regular EI benefits? Will I still receive my payments?
Yes. If you have an open EI claim that is unrelated to COVID-19, your benefits should not be interrupted by the introduction of the CERB. You should still receive your regular EI payments.

What if my regular EI benefits have ended? Can I apply for the CERB?
If you are receiving regular EI benefits that end before October 3, 2020, you can apply for the CERB once your regular benefits have ended. You must meet the eligibility criteria for the CERB.

Do I have to pay taxes on my CERB payments?
Yes. All EI benefits are considered taxable income by the CRA, including the CERB. You will need to report any CERB payments received when you file your 2020 taxes.

Am I eligible for the CERB if my only source of income is Income Assistance, CPP, or another type of government benefit
No. The CERB is a benefit intended for those who have had interruptions in earned income. These types of government benefits are considered unearned income. However, your government benefits should not be affected by COVID-19. You should still be receiving Income Assistance, CPP payments, etc.

What if I’m a student and now unable to find summer employment?
You may be eligible if you were working part-time and lost employment due to COVID-19 and meet the other eligibility criteria. If you were a student and you were not working, you are not eligible for the CERB.

What if I was working outside of Canada?
As long as you have earned $5,000 in 2019 or within the 12-month period prior to applying for the benefit, it does not matter whether that income was earned in Canada or not. You must reside in Canada to eligible for the benefit.

What if I am not a Canadian citizen?
Permanent residents and temporary residents who have Social Insurance Numbers are eligible for the benefit if they are residing in Canada. A SIN is required for these individuals to work in Canada or to receive benefits and services from government programs.

What if I am a temporary foreign worker?
If you are a temporary foreign worker or international student, you may be eligible for the CERB if you meet the other eligibility factors. Contact Service Canada for more information.

What if I’m newly self-employed and haven’t yet earned any income?
You may be eligible for the CERB if you cannot earn any self-employment income due to COVID-19 and you meet the other eligibility criteria.

Other Resources:

Service Canada information on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/cerb-application.html

How to Apply for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/apply-for-cerb-with-cra.html

Printable PDF Version:  COVID 19 EI and CERB (April 3, 2020)

April 1, 2020

Dear NSLA Clients, Applicants, Community Partners & Stakeholders:

RE:  NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID SERVICES

As a result of enhanced directives from the Province of Nova Scotia and the state of emergency, Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) Offices are now closed to the public. We are providing the updated information below to assist you with contacting our offices, or in referring Nova Scotians to our service.

General Information

• Although NSLA Offices are closed to the public, as an essential service, we will continue to help Nova Scotians who require our services.
• Although our physical offices are closed, staff are working remotely, and office main lines are operational. NSLA Offices can be reached by telephone, or email. A list of offices can be found at https://www.nslegalaid.ca/legal-aid-offices/
• Voicemail and email accounts will be regularly monitored.
• NSLA Offices will not be regularly staffed so please do not send anything via fax.
• If a Legal Aid client has an upcoming court matter, they should contact their lawyer regarding their court date if they have not already heard from them.
• All outreach into communities by NSLA staff will be suspended until further notice.
• Please be patient when contacting NSLA and expect delays in receiving a response to telephone calls, emails or an application. As a result of changes in service due to COVID-19, there will be a large increase in the volume of calls, emails and online applications which staff must handle.

Appointments & Applying for Legal Aid

• If an individual has an appointment at a NSLA Office, they should call the office so other arrangements can be made. Appointments with NSLA may be held by telephone or video if possible.
• Applicants for legal aid services can apply online at https://www.nslegalaid.ca/online-application/. Until April 6, 2020, NSLA Offices will only be processing applications for urgent matters. With an expected increase in the volume of online applications, we ask applicants to please be patient in waiting to hear from NSLA regarding their application.

Criminal Law Matters (Adult & Youth)

• The Provincial Court and the Youth Justice Court are hearing urgent and essential matters only. On March 31, 2020, the Chief Judge directed that all in-custody trials and preliminary inquiries in both courts scheduled up until May 31 be adjourned. Details and new court dates can be found at: https://www.courts.ns.ca/News_of_Courts/documents/NSPC_Consolidated_Directive_COVID19_03_31_20.pdf
• Updates regarding the status of all courts can be found on the NS Courts website at: https://www.courts.ns.ca/News_of_Courts/COVID19_Preventative_Measures.htm
• If an individual does not have a lawyer, NSLA Duty Counsel may be able to assist and the individual should call their local NSLA Office.
• If an individual does not have a lawyer and has a Provincial Court date in Halifax or Dartmouth, they can obtain further information and assistance by filling out the form on our website at https://www.nslegalaid.ca/need-help-adjourning-a-halifax-or-dartmouth-provincial-court-date
• NSLA will assist any unrepresented people who need urgent changes to their Undertaking or Recognizance. Rather than attend a courthouse, contact the NSLA Office nearest the Court from which released. In HRM, complete this simple webform to get Duty Counsel assistance: https://www.nslegalaid.ca/online-adjournment-form/ or call the office.
• Telephone Duty Counsel will continue to be available 24/7 for individuals arrested or detained by police. Individuals who are in custody and wish to access this service should advise the detaining officer.

Family Law Matters

• Updates regarding the status of all courts can be found on the NS Courts website at: https://www.courts.ns.ca/News_of_Courts/COVID19_Preventative_Measures.htm
• NSLA is continuing to provide family summary advice services at all Courthouses through scheduled telephone appointments. This service is available to Nova Scotians who do not qualify financially for legal aid.
• NSLA has expanded its family summary advice services by making it available by telephone at all Legal Aid Offices that provide family law services.  Details: https://www.nslegalaid.ca/expansion-of-family-law-summary-advice-and-online-chats/
• Online chats with a lawyer for family matters will continue and an extra day has been added. Family law chats are now being held every Tuesday and Thursday from 3-5 pm. Click on the chat button on our website to start https://www.nslegalaid.ca/

Social Justice (Income & Housing Matters)

• Social Justice services are still available. NSLA offers legal advice and possibly full-service representation for income and housing matters. Contact local NSLA Office to apply.
• Online chats with a lawyer for social justice matters will continue. Online chats for income and  housing issues are held every Wednesday from 3-5 pm. Click on the chat button on our website to start https://www.nslegalaid.ca/

Prison Law Services

• Prison law services are still available.
• NSLA helps Nova Scotians who are serving sentences or remanded in custody pending trial with a range of legal issues. Details and contact information can be found here:   https://www.nslegalaid.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Brochure-Prison-Law.pdf

We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this time.

Yours sincerely,

Megan Longley

Megan Longley, QC
Chief Executive Officer

Applications to Vary Release Orders

In an effort to reduce the need for Nova Scotians to attend courthouses, Nova Scotia Legal Aid will assist any unrepresented people who need urgent changes to their Undertaking or Recognizance. Rather than attend a courthouse, please contact the Legal Aid Office nearest the Court from which you were released. You can find the nearest NSLA Office here: https://www.nslegalaid.ca/legal-aid-offices/ .

Please note our offices are closed to walk-in traffic, but we can be reached by telephone or email.

In HRM, complete this simple webform to get Duty Counsel assistance: https://www.nslegalaid.ca/online-adjournment-form/ or call the office.

*If you already have a lawyer representing you, please contact your lawyer directly and they will assist you.*

Current circumstances have led to the closure of courts in HRM for all but the most pressing matters. Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) wishes to extend an invitation to individuals who do not otherwise have legal counsel to contact us so that legal counsel can appear on their behalf in the Provincial Courts in Halifax and Dartmouth to obtain a new court appearance date for them.

The best way to request our assistance is to complete the online form:  HRM Provincial Court Adjournment. The online form only gathers the information necessary to make a request to adjourn a court date on your behalf. Priority will be given to online requests for assistance.

We can also be reached at 902-420-7800.  Please leave a message with your full name, date of birth, and your upcoming court date and location. A representative will be in touch to confirm we can assist.

Please try to contact us with your request at least 2 days before your court date so we can ensure that counsel is available and advised of your request. While we will try to contact you with your new court date, it will still be your responsibility to find out your new date yourself by contacting us or the courthouse where your case is being heard.

Unfortunately, these services are not available for matters in night court (such as motor vehicle or Small Claims Court cases) at the present time. NSLA can, however, provide advice and assistance for individuals with night court matters if they wish to seek a postponement of their court date.

Remember, requests for assistance at least 2 days before the scheduled court date stand the best chance of a positive outcome.

We are pleased to share the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission’s 2020-21 Business Plan: NSLA Business Plan 2020-21. The Business Plan can also be found in Legal Aid Publications under the About Us tab.

The Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission’s 2018-19 Annual Report is now available and can be found on the About Us, Legal Aid Publications page, or at this link:  Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission 2018-19 Annual Report

Below is a link to the above-noted article wherein Gordon Blackmore, Halifax Land Title Office, talks about the land title representation that he and Shanisha Grant, Dartmouth Land Title Office, are providing in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook, Lincolnville, and Summerville.

https://www.halifaxtoday.ca/local-news/meet-the-lawyer-helping-black-communities-reclaim-their-land-1583894

On June 13, 2019, R. Gordon Murray, QC received the 2019 J. Michael MacDonald Access to Justice Award from the Canadian Bar Association – Nova Scotia. This Award recognizes outstanding contributions to improving access to justice for Nova Scotians who face social and economic barriers.

Gordon was the first Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission and devoted his career to ensuring access to justice for the most vulnerable and historically marginalized people in the Province.  His work has truly had a positive impact on the rights and wellbeing of Nova Scotians.

Gord’s commitment to Nova Scotians served by NS Legal Aid did not end with his retirement as Executive Director in 1994. He has continued to be a valued member of the legal aid team by serving as a Director, continuing on legal aid committees, and serving as a volunteer member of NSLA’s internal Executive Committee. To this day, Gordon is truly generous with his time and his wisdom.

On May 16, 2019, Crystal Hill, Indigenous Social Worker, presented at the Millbrook Health Fair. The Fair was a great opportunity to meet with service providers and learn about what they have to offer.

Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) is pleased to announce its recent hire of Charnell Brooks as our first African Nova Scotian Social Worker (ASW). In this new role as the ASW, Charnell will be responsible for the delivery of social work services to our African Nova Scotian clients. Charnell will provide social work expertise to assist our staff and our African Nova Scotian clients, in particular those involved with the Children and Family Services Act, Criminal Code, Youth Criminal Justice Act, and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Charnell will also be connecting with African Nova Scotian communities and service providers around the Province both to promote the services NSLA can provide and to ensure familiarity with services available to our clients.

On the importance of this new role for NSLA, Executive Director, Megan Longley, QC – ”Given the over-representation of African Nova Scotians in criminal and child protection systems it is essential that our staff are supported in providing the best service to clients and the best information to courts. Until we understand and share the history and cultural context of our clients, barriers to meaningful access to justice will remain in place”.

Charnell Brooks holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Dalhousie University and has over 12 years of experience working with marginalized and vulnerable populations and most recently worked as a social worker with the Department of Community Services. In June 2016, she was asked to present the amended Children and Family Services Act to African Nova Scotia communities.

In its Strategic Plan, NSLA recognizes African Nova Scotians are over-represented in criminal and child protection systems. The historical uniqueness of African Nova Scotian community and experience, which includes generations of systemic racism, means culturally aware and competent service must be delivered to our clients.

The creation of an African Nova Scotian Social Worker (ASW) to work with and support clients in the criminal and child protection systems is supported by a grant from the Law Foundation of Nova Scotia.

For more information, please contact Charlene Moore QC, Service Delivery Director, Nova Scotia Legal Aid at 902-420-6589, email: Charlene.Moore@nslegalaid.ca or visit the Nova Scotia Legal Aid website: www.nslegalaid.ca

We are pleased to announce that George Ash has been appointed as the Chair of the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission effective March 30, 2019. George has been a Commission Board member since May 1, 2012.

George Ash (B.Kin, B.Ed., LL.B.) is a Partner and Chair of the Real Estate Group with BOYNECLARKE LLP. George practices in both Real Property, and Wills and Estate administrations.

As a former inner city school teacher, George taught for four years before deciding to return to Dalhousie University to study Law. George joined BOYNECLARKE LLP after being called to the bar in 2005, and has been a valuable member of the firm since.

George takes pride in his involvement in the African Nova Scotian community, being a former member of the African Nova Scotia Music Association and past Chair for the Advisory Council for the Indigenous Black & Mi’kmaq Initiative at Schulich School of Law.

George is a graduate of the Schulich School of Law, Dalhousie University. He holds Kinesiology and Education Degrees from the University of New Brunswick. George has a wife and two sons, and is an active golfer.

We are confident that under George’s leadership Nova Scotia Legal Aid will continue to improve access to justice for Nova Scotians.

We are pleased to share the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission’s 2019-2020 Business Plan:  NSLAC 2019-2020 Business Plan. The Business Plan can also be found in Legal Aid Publications under the About Us tab.

The Canadian Superior Courts Judges Association has launched a YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/judgesincanadalesjugesaucanada) and below is an excerpt from their web page regarding the new educational videos available.

——————–

A critical piece in maintaining, preserving and enhancing the Canadian system of justice is educating the public. This is also one of the objectives of the Canadian Superior Courts Judges Association (CSCJA). Ensuring that Canadians understand what to expect and how the system functions helps to promote effective and timely access to justice for all.

The Association has two teaching tools to share with the public and with educators:

The educational video Judges in Canada – What they do and how they do it is aimed at new and young Canadians as well as the public in general. The video illustrates what they are entitled to expect from Judges in Canadian Courts and covers principles fundamental to our Justice System; concepts such as Judicial independence and the Rule of Law.

Educational messages are embedded in our story about a young man, Weldon, who, while returning his child to her mother, becomes involved in a car accident. This results in criminal charges. The child’s mother then applies to the Family Court to seek restrictions on his contact with his child. Our narrator, The Honorable Judge Samuel Moreau of the Provincial Court of Nova Scotia, walks the viewer through our young man’s story.

In a courtroom scene, the Honorable Justice Deborah Gass of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia (Family Division) addresses Weldon’s fear about discrimination within the Justice System. The video identifies the citizen’s legal entitlement to a fair hearing according to the evidence and the law regardless of age, race, religion, sexual orientation or cultural origin.

(The Canadian Superior Courts Judges Association (CSCJA) represents approximately 1,300 judges, sitting and retired, who serve on the superior courts and courts of appeal of each province and territory, as well as on the Federal Court of Canada, the Federal Court of Appeal and the Tax Court of Canada.)

http://www.cscja.ca/judges/

http://www.cscja.ca

Judges in Canada

In October 2018, 15 self-represented litigants (SRLs) and 45 justice system representatives took part in facilitated plenary discussions, small working group discussions focused on specific issues related to SRLs and the justice system, listened to panels presented by both SRLs and justice system insiders, and attended small networking events. Below is a copy of the Continuing the Dialogue: Final Event Report 2018.

Continuing the Dialogue Event Report 2018

The Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission’s 2017-18 Annual Report Summary Booklet is now available on our website (About Us, Legal Aid Publications) and can be found here:  Annual Report Summary 2017-18

The Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission’s 2017-18 Annual Report is now available on our website and can be found here:  2017-18 Annual Report

STAFF LAWYER POSITION

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID

DARTMOUTH CRIMINAL OFFICE

Position:  Staff Lawyer position in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia practicing criminal and social justice law.  This is an eighteen month (18) contract position.

Qualifications:  Successful candidate must be a practicing, insured member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society with a thorough understanding of criminal and social justice law.  Candidates should have experience in representing clients before the courts.  Competency to conduct legal proceedings in both the English and French languages would be an asset.  Start date to be as soon as possible.

Salary Range:  Per Legal Aid salary scale based on “Relevant Experience” as determined by the Commission at time of hire plus benefits.

We offer:

• Vision, Dental, Health and Prescription Drug Plan
• Confidential Employee Assistance Program
• Fitness Incentives
• Great Wellness Programs and Activities

Closing Date:     Friday, October 12, 2018 at 4:30 PM

Reply To:

Evelyn Adesida
Human Resources (HR) Specialist
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS  B3J 3M8
Tel: 902-420-6588
evelyn.adesida@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

STAFF LAWYER POSITION

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID TRURO

Position:  Staff Lawyer position in Truro, Nova Scotia, practicing family and social justice law.  This is an eighteen month (18) contract position to cover a secondment.

Qualifications:  Successful candidate must be a practicing, insured member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society with a thorough understanding of family and social justice law.  Candidates should have experience in representing clients before the courts.  Competency to conduct legal proceedings in both the English and French languages would be an asset.  Start date to be as soon as possible.

Salary Range:  Per Legal Aid salary scale based on “Relevant Experience” as determined by the Commission at time of hire plus benefits.

Closing Date:     Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at 4:30 PM

Reply To:

Evelyn Adesida
Human Resources (HR) Specialist
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street,
Halifax, NS  B3J 3M8
Tel: 902-420-6588
evelyn.adesida@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

STAFF LAWYER POSITION

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID SYDNEY

Position:  Staff Lawyer position in Sydney, Nova Scotia practicing criminal and social justice law.  This is a contract position with the potential of permanency.

Qualifications:  Successful candidate must be a practicing, insured member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society with a thorough understanding of criminal and social justice law.  Candidates should have experience in representing clients before the courts.  Competency to conduct legal proceedings in both the English and French languages would be an asset.  Start date to be as soon as possible.

Salary Range:  Per Legal Aid salary scale based on “Relevant Experience” as determined by the Commission at time of hire plus benefits.

Closing Date:     Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at 4:30 PM

Reply To:

Evelyn Adesida
Human Resources (HR) Specialist
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street,
Halifax, NS  B3J 3M8
Tel: 902-4206588
evelyn.adesida@nslegalaid.ca

You will find a place to grow personally and professionally with opportunities for professional development.

You will do meaningful and challenging work in a publically accountable and respectful working environment that is diverse, safe and inclusive.

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

Below please find a link to a great story about Professor Robert Currie who spent time with Nova Scotia Legal Aid during his sabbatical from Schulich School of Law.  Rob spent his time working with Roger Burrill and Lee Seshagiri of our Appeals Division. It was great having him on the team.

https://www.dal.ca/faculty/law/news-events/news/2018/09/06/schulich_law_professor_rob_currie_is_back_in_the_classroom_after_a_successful_sabbatical.html

Please find below an ESIA pamphlet with information about changes happening in the ESIA program under a new wage exemption structure. ESIA clients will be receiving this pamphlet from the Department of Community Services in their pay stub the last week in August.

ESIA Wage Exemption Pamphlet

An online employment income estimator can be found at: http://novascotia.ca/apps/dcs-estimator. This estimator gives clients a way to figure out how much their take home amount would be as it relates to their monthly earnings and their monthly IA cheque. It also shows the difference between the amount they would take home in the old structure vs. the new structure. A link to this estimator can also be found on Nova Scotia Legal Aid’s website under Legal Information.

The Parole Board of Canada wishes to share that the Expungement of Historically Unjust Convictions Act is now in force. The Parole Board is inviting applications for expungement from people with criminal records because of convictions of this type. Please see the letter below.  If you have been impacted, please find further details in the letter below and on the website at:

https://www.canada.ca/en/parole-board/services/expungements/step-1-are-you-eligible-to-apply.html

Wednesday, June 27, 2018 (Halifax, NS) – Self-represented litigants in Yarmouth and the surrounding communities will soon have access to free legal advice on their civil matters and some family law appeals. The new service is set to begin on Friday, July 6.

The Free Legal Clinic, located in the courthouse at 164 Main St., Yarmouth, will offer private appointments with a volunteer practising lawyer at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., and 11 a.m. on the first and third Fridays of the month, excluding holidays.

Only those representing themselves on certain types of cases are eligible, specifically civil law matters before the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia or the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal, and family law appeals, except for child protection matters.

The Yarmouth clinic will not deal with criminal law matters. Duty Counsel through Nova Scotia Legal Aid is available in most courthouses for assistance with criminal and family law matters that do not qualify at the clinic.

This is not a drop-in clinic. Judges, lawyers and others involved with the provincial justice system are aware of this free service and may refer you to the clinic early in the court process or at any point during your time in court. You can also schedule an appointment on your own by visiting the Court Administration Office at the Yarmouth courthouse or by calling 902-742-0580.

The Yarmouth Free Legal Clinic is modeled after those in Halifax and Sydney, which opened in 2015 and 2017, respectively. Since then, these clinics have provided hundreds of hours of assistance to self-represented litigants, mostly due to the dedication and generosity of volunteer lawyers and law firms in these communities.

For more information on the Nova Scotia Courts and our access to justice initiatives, please visit www.courts.ns.ca.

Media Contact:

Jennifer Stairs
Communications Director
Nova Scotia Judiciary
Cell: 902-221-5257
Email: stairsjl@courts.ns.ca

MANAGING LAWYER AND/OR STAFF LAWYER POSITION

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID

Position:  Managing Lawyer and/or Staff Lawyer position in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia practicing criminal and family law.  Initial one-year contract with potential to become permanent.

Qualifications:  Successful candidate must be a practicing, insured member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society with a thorough understanding of Criminal and Family Law.  Candidate should have experience in representing clients before the courts. Competency to conduct legal proceedings in both the English and French languages would be an asset.  Start date to be as soon as possible.

Salary Range:  Per Legal Aid salary scale based on “Relevant Experience” as determined by the Commission at time of hire plus benefits.

Closing Date:     Friday, July 13, 2018 at 4:00 pm

Reply To:

Amy Dickson
Operations Administrative Assistant
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS   B3J 3M8
902-420-3471 Fax
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID COMMISSION

FINANCIAL SERVICES OFFICER/ANALYST

Position:  Seeking an experienced Financial Services Officer/Analyst for a position located in Halifax Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia.

The Financial Services Officer/Analyst (FSO) will have responsibility for maintaining the accounting system/general ledger of the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission. As well, the FSO will be responsible for due diligence on accounts payable and banking. The FSO will provide accurate and appropriate financial information on Commission activities, which includes preparing and analyzing financial reports and preparing monthly internal financial statements.  The position works closely with and supports the Director of Finance (DOF) and the rest of the finance team.

Ideal Abilities and Skills

• Minimum 3 year post-secondary professional accounting training plus 5 years related experience or an acceptable equivalent of training combined with experience.
• Proficient in accounting and financial programs, Sage 300 would be considered an asset.
• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles.
• Proficiency with personal computers including knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office programs.
• Proficiency in preparing financial reports.
• The FSO must be able to perform administrative support duties for the DOF.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, including attention to detail and accuracy, strong organizational skills, and a capacity to work under pressure of deadlines and multiple competing priorities.

Salary Level:  Under review

Deadline for Applications:  Thursday, June 28, 2018 at 4:00 pm

Reply To:
Submit your resume with cover letter to:

Amy Dickson
Operations Administrative Assistant
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS    B3J 3M8
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) is pleased to announce that it has hired two Staff Lawyers from African Nova Scotian communities and two Legal Assistants to staff its two Land Title Initiative (LTI) Offices. Our Halifax LTI Office is now open for business and is located at: Suite 402, 5475 Spring Garden Road. The second LTI Office will be located at Suite 300, 99 Wyse Road, Dartmouth. It is anticipated that staff will commence operational duties in the Dartmouth Office in late June. Lawyers from those offices will be traveling to Lincolnville, Sunnyville, and the other communities for meetings as well.

NSLA will provide service assisting Nova Scotians to obtain title to their land in the five Communities of East Preston, North Preston, Cherry Brook, Lincolnville, and Sunnyville. These five communities, among others, have suffered from historical discrimination that has prevented people from receiving legal title to the land they own. The Province is working with stakeholders, including NSLA, to remove barriers to the clarification of land ownership and address the unequal treatment that African Nova Scotians have faced.

Service provided will include:

• obtaining a Certificate of Title under the Land Titles Clarification Act (LTCA) (which requires migration after issuance of the certificate);
• migration under the Land Registration Act;
• Court-ordered declarations and negotiation between private parties; and
• applications under the Probate Act/Intestate Succession Act.

Applicants for service under this Initiative will not need to meet financial eligibility guidelines. Files will be assessed for merit and we can only provide service in the above five communities. Please contact our Halifax LTI Office @ 902-420-8845 to apply for legal service. You can also apply online @https://www.nslegalaid.ca/online-application/ or by completing an Application in any Legal Aid Office. Any inquiries can be sent to lti@nslegalaid.ca. Also, the fax number is 902-420-6561.

More information on the Provincial initiative is available here: https://novascotia.ca/natr/titles-clarification/

STAFF LAWYER POSITION
NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID

Position: Contract Staff Lawyer position in Sydney, Nova Scotia practicing criminal law with the possibility of some criminal duty counsel work.

Qualifications: Successful candidate must be a practicing, insured member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society with a thorough understanding of Criminal Law. Candidate should have experience in representing clients before the courts. Competency to conduct legal proceedings in both the English and French languages would be an asset. Start date to be as soon as possible.

Salary Range: Per Legal Aid salary scale based on “Relevant Experience” as determined by the Commission at time of hire plus benefits.

Closing Date: Friday, June 1, 2018 at 4:00 PM

Reply To:

Amy Dickson
Operations Administrative Assistant
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS B3J 3M8
902-420-3471 Fax
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented. If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. All applications will be held in strict confidence.

Pictured are some of the NSLA Bears in support of Bear Witness Day on May 10th. In our Yarmouth Office, Bear couldn’t make it so his friend Moose visited. Further details regarding this initiative can be found at: https://fncaringsociety.com/BearWitness

HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID COMMISSION

Position:  Seeking an experienced Human Resources Specialist for a position located in Halifax Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia.

The Human Resources Specialist (HRS) will have responsibility for the day-to-day human resources management of the Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission (The Commission). The HRS will maintain knowledge of the human resource priorities of the Commission, and will work closely with the Internal Operations Director (IOD) to achieve the deliverables. The HRS must also have a broad range of knowledge relating to the activities and policies of the Commission.

Ideal Abilities and Skills

• University Degree, or College Certificate, in Human Resources Management, and five years of relevant experience.
• Overall, the incumbent must possess excellent writing and communication skills, including attention to detail and accuracy, strong organizational skills, and a capacity to work under pressure of deadlines and multiple competing priorities.
• The incumbent must be able to perform demanding duties which require the ability to work independently or as part of a team, initiative and judgment in areas where established routines and guidelines do not always exist, in matters of extreme confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Ability to work in a high stress environment is an asset.
• Proficiency with personal computers including knowledge and facility with programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel;
• Proficiency in preparing written reports and documents.
• Hold a valid driver’s license, as some travel within Nova Scotia will be required.

Salary Level:  Under review

Deadline for Applications:  Friday, May 4, 2018 at 4:00 pm

Reply To:
Submit your resume with cover letter to:

Amy Dickson
Operations Administrative Assistant
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS    B3J 3M8
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

LEGAL ASSISTANT POSITION
SYDNEY OFFICE
NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID COMMISSION

Position:  Seeking an experienced Legal Assistant for a one-year contract position located in our Sydney Office.

Ideal Abilities and Skills:

• Graduate of a recognized post-secondary paralegal/clerical certificate program or 5 years equivalent work experience.
• Experience in a law office and have a good working knowledge of legal terminology and court procedures.
• Ability to work independently, to take initiative and to use judgment in matters of extreme confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Ability to work in a collaborative team setting.
• The candidate should be proficient in transcription of dictation with excellent typing and communication skills, including attention to detail, accuracy and capacity to work under pressure of deadlines and multiple competing priorities.
• Ability to work in a high stress environment is an asset.
• Proficiency with personal computers including knowledge of programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.

Salary Level:  NSLAC Clerical Pay Scale (CL), plus benefits

Deadline for Applications:   Thursday, March 29, 2018 at 4:00 PM.

Reply to:
Submit resume with cover letter to:

Amy Dickson
Operations Administrative Assistant
1701 Hollis Street, Suite 920
Halifax, NS B3J 3M8
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented. If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. All applications will be held in strict confidence.

Nova Scotia Legal Aid is pleased to receive funding from the Province of Nova Scotia which will allow us to provide service assisting Nova Scotians to obtain title to their land in the five Communities of East Preston, North Preston, Cherry Brook, Lincolnville, and Sunnyville. These five communities, among others, have suffered from historical discrimination that has prevented people from receiving legal title to the land they own. The Province is working with stakeholders, including NSLA, to remove barriers to the clarification of land ownership and address the unequal treatment that African Nova Scotians have faced.

Service will be provided through the creation of two positions for lawyers from African Nova Scotian communities who will provide dedicated service on these files. These lawyers will operate independent of government and provide confidential solicitor services. We are currently advertising to fill these and support staff positions. Position postings can be found on our website.

We will be accepting applications in our offices or online (www.nslegalaid.ca), although we will not be able to assign a lawyer or start work until the positions are filled. Once we are up and running, a notice will be posted on our website and Twitter feed.

Service provided will include:

• obtaining a Certificate of Title under the Land Titles Clarification Act (LTCA) (which requires migration after issuance of the certificate);
• migration under the Land Registration Act;
• court ordered declarations and negotiation between private parties; and
  applications under the Probate Act/Intestate Succession Act.

Applicants for service under this initiative will not need to meet financial eligibility guidelines. Files will be assessed for merit and we can currently only provide service in the above five communities. Please contact ltca@nslegalaid.ca with any inquiries.

More information on the Provincial initiative is available here: https://novascotia.ca/natr/titles-clarification/

LEGAL ASSISTANT POSITION

DARTMOUTH CRIMINAL

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID COMMISSION

Position:  Seeking an experienced Legal Assistant for a one-year contract position located in our Dartmouth Criminal Office.

Ideal Abilities and Skills

• Graduate of a recognized post-secondary paralegal/clerical certificate program or 5 years equivalent work experience.
• Experience in a law office and have a good working knowledge of legal terminology and court procedures.
• Ability to work independently, to take initiative and to use judgment in matters of extreme confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Ability to work in a collaborative team setting.
• The candidate should be proficient in transcription of dictation with excellent typing and communication skills, including attention to detail, accuracy and capacity to work under pressure of deadlines and multiple competing priorities.
• Ability to work in a high stress environment is an asset.
• Proficiency with personal computers including knowledge of programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.

Salary Level:  NSLAC Clerical Pay Scale (CL), plus benefits

Deadline for Applications:  Friday, February 16, 2018 at 4:00 PM.

Reply To:

Submit resume with cover letter to:

Amy Dickson
Operations Administrative Assistant
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS   B3J 3M8
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

Nova Scotia Legal Aid Honouring African Heritage Month

In honour of African Heritage Month, we would like to take this opportunity to express Nova Scotia Legal Aid’s (NSLA) continued commitment to enhancing access to justice for economically vulnerable and historically disadvantaged communities throughout the Province.

The UN Report of the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent on its mission to Canada was released on August 16, 2017. According to their findings,

• East Preston and North Preston, communities on the outskirts of Halifax, Nova Scotia (on land that the British Crown granted to Black Loyalists following the American Revolution), has the highest percentage of Blacks in Canada.
• African Canadians are overrepresented in the child welfare and criminal justice system, the cause of which is said to be rooted in racial bias.
• There is a lack of implementation of the Land Clarification Titles Act (LCTA), which would assist people of African descent in obtaining titles to the lands on which they live.

As an organization, we acknowledge these findings and are dedicated to providing culturally responsive service to our clients which has been identified as a priority in the NSLA Strategic Plan – 2017-2020. We will continue to educate our staff and encourage our lawyers to bring cultural impact to the forefront on matters before the Court. For instance, there has been an increase in the use of cultural assessments by our lawyers to ensure that vital information about African Nova Scotian history and culture is before the Court.

In September 2017, the Provincial Government announced a new initiative to support the clarification of land ownership with a focus on the five African Nova Scotian communities of East Preston, North Preston, Cherry Brook, Lincolnville and Sunnyville. These communities, among others across the Province, have suffered from historical discrimination that has prevented community members from receiving legal title to the land they own. NSLA, with the support of the Province of Nova Scotia, will provide legal services to African Nova Scotians seeking to obtain title to their land.

The NSLA Equity & Racial Diversity Committee will continue to work with the executive of Nova Scotia Legal Aid to ensure that as an organization, we better reflect the diverse communities which we serve.

Brandon Rolle & Alisha Brown-Fagan
Co-Chairs of NSLA Equity & Racial Diversity Committee

The Department of Justice will be hosting two public information sessions on the Adult Capacity and Decision-making Act and these sessions are scheduled for January 29 and February 7. Space is limited for these two sessions and people interested in attending should email justweb@novascotia.ca to advise which session they plan to attend. If there is demand, additional public information sessions will be arranged. The sessions are happening:

January 29, 2018 at 9:30 am
Keshen Goodman Public Library, Halifax

February 7, 2018 at 7:00 pm pm
Woodlawn Public Library, Dartmouth

MANAGING LAWYER AND/OR STAFF LAWYER POSITION

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID

 Position:  Managing Lawyer and/or Staff Lawyer position in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia practicing family law.  Initial one-year contract with potential to become permanent.

Qualifications:  Successful candidate must be a practicing, insured member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society with a thorough understanding of Family Law.  Candidate should have experience in representing clients before the courts.  Competency to conduct legal proceedings in both the English and French languages would be an asset.  Start date to be as soon as possible.

Salary Range:  Per Legal Aid salary scale based on “Relevant Experience” as determined by the Commission at time of hire plus benefits.

Closing Date:  Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at 4:00 PM

Reply To:            

Amy Dickson
Operations Administrative Assistant
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS   B3J 3M8
902-420-3471 Fax
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

COURT SUPPORT WORKER POSITION

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID

Seeking an experienced candidate for a one-year contract position located in HRM.  Job Description is attached hereto.

Ideal Abilities and Skills

• Minimum Grade 12 High School Diploma.
• Paralegal or 5 year’s equivalent training or related relevant experience.
• Experience working with the public. Knowledge of adult law and community programs focusing on assisting disadvantaged or challenged individuals or groups.
• Ability to work independently, to take initiative and to use judgment in matters of extreme confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Ability to work in a collaborative team setting.
• The candidate should be proficient in transcription of dictation with excellent typing and communication skills, including attention to detail, accuracy and capacity to work under pressure of deadlines and multiple competing priorities.
• Ability to work in a high stress environment is an asset.
• Proficiency with personal computers including knowledge of programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.
• Court Support Worker Position Description can be found here:  CSW

Salary Level

Professional Classification and Pay Plan (PR), plus benefits

Deadline for Applications

Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at 4:30 PM.

You can submit your resume with cover letter to:

Amy Dickson
Operations Administration Assistant
1701 Hollis Street, Suite 920
Halifax, NS   B3J 3M8
Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

The Faith Baptist Church on Davenport Street in Sydney is holding weekly Info Cafés to bring services under one roof to provide advice to people in the areas of money and debt management, housing, employment, legal aid, and relationship counselling. Nova Scotia Legal Aid Lawyers from our Sydney Offices are providing legal service at the Cafés. Pictured is Pastor Rob Jones. Weekly sessions are held every Tuesday from 9 am to 12 pm. Further details can be found at:  http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/infomation-cafe-sydney-church-pastor-rob-jones-1.4369482

To give adult survivors of sexual assault better support, the Province of Nova Scotia created the Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors program.  Effective November 1, 2017, this Program will take referrals.

The program respects survivors’ privacy and their right to make their own decisions. Registering is done through an independent agency, 211 Nova Scotia, and participants do not have to report to police or take legal action if they use this service.

The Legal Advice for Sexual Assault Survivors program supports survivors by providing up to 4 hours of free advice from a lawyer.

Understand your rights.

Learn more at www.novascotia.ca/sexualassaultlegaladvice

SOCIAL WORKER

NOVA SCOTIA LEGAL AID COMMISSION

Position:  Social Worker to assist in Indigenous Communities throughout Nova Scotia, Job Description is attached hereto.

Start Date:  Immediately

Location:   Executive Office, 920-1701 Hollis Street

Nova Scotia Legal Aid is a firm of close to 100 lawyers located in 19 Regional Offices throughout Nova Scotia.  We are the largest Criminal Defence, Family Law and Social Justice Law firm in the Province.  We have been serving Nova Scotians since the 1970’s.  In addition to having community based offices, we also provide outreach services within the Communities themselves.

Connecting with Communities is a key strategic direction for Nova Scotia Legal Aid.  To help provide this service, we employ fully practicing Lawyers, Support Staff, Court Support Workers, Family Support Assistants and a Researcher.

As part of our outreach with Nova Scotia’s diverse population, we currently go into ten (10) Indigenous Communities and have plans for further expansion into more communities.  To assist our Lawyers and Court Support Workers and more importantly to help Indigenous clients and their families we have an opening for  a full time Social Worker, particularly to deal with clients involved with Child Protection and other family matters.

Qualifications:

• Have a degree in Social Work;
• Be a member in good standing with the NSASW;
• Have excellent communication skills;
• Have the ability to work with other professionals and at times, work on your own;
• Strong file/case management skills
• Hold a valid driver’s license;
• Be familiar with the Family Court system and legal procedures in Nova Scotia;
• Have worked with Indigenous Communities recently;
• Fluency in Mi’kmaq would be an asset

Closing Date:  Friday, November 3, 2017 at 12:00 Noon

Reply To:

Amy Dickson
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
920-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS    B3J 3M8
902-420-3471 Fax
Email:  Amy.Dickson@nslegalaid.ca

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve.  We have an Employment Equity Policy and welcome applications from historically disadvantaged groups, including: Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.  If you are a member of one of the equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify, on your application form, cover letter, or resume.

While we appreciate receiving all applications, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.  All applications will be held in strict confidence.

Please see information below shared by Family SOS regarding their BEEA Honey with Heart youth program.

CAST YOUR 18 VOTES AND HELP US #CREATEABUZZ

Good Morning Everyone!  My name is Simone and I am the Community Engagement Officer for Family SOS and the BEEA Honey with Heart project based in Halifax, Nova Scotia! BEEA Honey with Heart is a youth led urban beekeeping social enterprise project that currently operates in Dartmouth North, Spryfield (Greystone) & the North End of Halifax! Our goal is to bring urban beekeeping to youth in marginalized communities! With three successful sites, the current youth involved in the project are setting their sites on expansion. Last month the youth applied to the Aviva Community Fund and were accepted! Now we need the public’s help so they can expand their project.

How can you help? By simply voting for them.

Each person who registers gets to submit 18 votes (these can be submitted all at once – you do not have to vote daily and the entire process takes about one minute).  If even half of the people included on this email voted – our youth would have a real chance at winning and expanding their project into five more communities, and positively impacting the lives of youth and our environment!

To vote visit https://www.avivacommunityfund.org/voting/project/view/17-418 and click register! It takes less than a minute to vote and your 18 votes would mean the world to us!

Statistics Canada is conducting a public consultation on the 2021 Census of Population from September to December 2017. We encourage you to participate in this online consultation and to forward information about the consultation to other census data users.

The online consultation questionnaire is designed to gather information about how and why Canadians use census data, the type of information they believe should be available from the census, and details of other data sources that could be used to supplement or replace current census content. The information gathered during consultation will help Statistics Canada assess the data needs of Canadians and evaluate whether emerging social and economic trends are reflected. Your feedback will help Statistics Canada determine the content of the 2021 Census of Population questionnaire.

Participation is secure

Statistics Canada is committed to respecting the privacy of consultation participants. All personal information collected by the agency is protected by the Privacy Act.

Comments collected during the consultation may be published anonymously in the 2021 Census of Population Content Consultation Report, which will be available on the Statistics Canada website in the fall of 2019.

Providing feedback is easy

Click on the link below to take part in the consultation:

Complete the consultation questionnaire

If the link does not open, copy this link https://www68.statcan.gc.ca/ecp-pce/en/load-init/CPCC and paste it into the address bar of your browser.

For additional information

Web page  2021 Census of Population Content Consultation

Contact us

Telephone
1-877-949-9492 (TTY: 1-855-382-7745)
Monday to Friday (except holidays), from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).

Email

Technical assistance:  statcan.sos-sos.statcan@canada.ca

General enquiries:  STATCAN.infostats-infostats.STATCAN@canada.ca

Your feedback is valuable. Please submit your completed questionnaire by December 8, 2017.

Thank you in advance for your participation.
Marc Hamel
Director General | Directeur général
Census Management Office | Bureau de gestion du recensement
Statistics Canada | Statistique Canada