The ability to independently access the legal system is a challenge for ordinary British Columbians. More and more people are trying to resolve legal matters on their own, however most are unfamiliar with how to properly prepare legal forms or prepare for a hearing.
Amici Curiae Friendship Society (AC) provides legal assistance to individuals who require help drafting or filling out legal forms. AC’s services are provided on the principle of equal access to justice. This means going beyond the application of a simple financial eligibility test. Equal access to justice includes an assessment of an individual’s capacity to navigate what has become a complex and inaccessible legal system for many British Columbians. And this principle of equal access to legal services has become even more relevant as we all deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
AC is a non-profit charity offering confidential workshops that help the public complete the legal forms necessary to present a matter to court or a tribunal. It is powered by paralegals, newly called lawyers, law school students, law librarians and law accountants, supervised by lawyers and supported by the profession. No legal advice is given on anything other than completing legal forms.
The ERA was thrilled to donate 5 laptops to help AC Friends of Court expand free services in Surrey, BC on November 9, 2022. The donation will be used to complete the legal forms and to assist their clients.
To learn more about AC Friends of the Court please visit their website. Click Here
The Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) works with charities across the country to provide refurbished electronics for their programs. This gives them access to reliable technology while allowing them to apply their resources to what they’re good at: developing programs to help Canadians struggling with poverty, health concerns or are otherwise experiencing misfortune. Because the Electronic Recycling Association is an advocate of equality, we are not specifically affiliated with a given charity. The ERA helps hundreds of charitable organizations each year through the donation of necessary computer equipment. Organizations qualified for donations through ERA’s donation program include: registered charities, non-profit organizations, care facilities (seniors homes, hospitals, daycares, etc.) and educational institutions.