Appealing a Denial of Service

If you have followed all the steps in applying for legal aid and have given all necessary information but are still denied services you may appeal. If service is denied, you will be given a reason for the decision, and information about how to make an appeal.  If you are denied a full-service lawyer you may still receive summary advice and information to help you with your matter. Appealing is a simple process so don’t worry.  Here’s how it works:

How do I Appeal My Decision?

• You have sixty (60) calendar days from the date of the decision denying or discontinuing legal aid services to appeal that decision that was made by the NSLA Office you applied to or were receiving legal aid from.
• The letter that you received denying or discontinuing your legal aid services should have included a link or copy of the Appeal Form (https://www.nslegalaid.ca/appeal/) or enclosed a paper copy.
• A Request for Appeal must be submitted in one (1) of the following ways using the NSLA Appeal Form:
  1. Online: nslegalaid.ca/appeal
  2. Email: serviceappeal@nslegalaid.ca
  3. Fax: 902-420-3471
  4. Mail:  Appeal Committee

Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
710-1701 Hollis Street
Halifax, NS B3J 3M8
Printable Appeal Form:  Appeal Form (May 2025)

Your request for an appeal must include the following:

• The NSLA Office and lawyer that denied/discontinued your legal aid services.
• The reason you were denied/discontinued.
• The reasons why you think the decision should be changed.
• Proof of personal circumstances if they have changed. This includes who you live with and where you live.
• If you have court, and/or the date of your next court appearance.
• Any other information that is important to know for your appeal and applicable documents.

See Appeal Process Brochure: Brochure – Appeal Process (May 2025)

What Happens After I request My Appeal?

• Once you have requested the appeal and provided all relevant information, NSLA will provide you with an appeal hearing date, time, and location. Appeal dates are typically the 3^rd Thursday of each month.
• The NSLA Office you applied to will also provide information to the Appeal Committee about your appeal.
• An appeal package will be prepared from all relevant materials received and a copy will be given to you and a copy to the Appeal Committee.
• You can take part in the appeal by teleconference to present why you feel this decision should be changed; however, it is not mandatory as the Appeal Committee will have your appeal materials/package to consider. If needed, you can also make prior arrangements to participate in the hearing via video conference or in person.
• If you need any accommodations such as an interpreter, please let us know so we can make appropriate arrangements.
• You may have a support person with you if attending via teleconference, or otherwise. Please let us know in advance.
• You will be sent a decision letter that will tell you if your appeal has been granted and next steps; or if your appeal has been denied.
• The NSLA Office you applied to will also be given a copy of the letter.
• If your appeal is granted, you will be asked to contact the NSLA Office you applied to about your representation.
• The Appeal Committee’s decision will be mailed or emailed to you within three (3) to five (5) business days after the appeal hearing date
• All decisions of the Appeal Committee are final.

Contact:

Appeal Committee
Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission
710-1701 Hollis Street Halifax, NS B3J 3M8
(P):902-420-6087 Toll-free: 1-877-420-6578
Fax: 902-420-3471
Email: serviceappeal@nslegalaid.ca
Website: www.nslegalaid.ca