Legal Clinic for Newcomers
Welcome to the Legal Clinic for Newcomers in Saint John! At the Legal Clinic, we are dedicated to providing free, accessible, and culturally sensitive legal services to newcomers in the […]
Embracing Newcomers, Empowering Justice.
Welcome to the Legal Clinic for Newcomers in Saint John! At the Legal Clinic, we are dedicated to providing free, accessible, and culturally sensitive legal services to newcomers in the Saint John community.
Providing Legal Support and Advice for Racialized Refugees and Immigrants
We understand that navigating the Canadian legal system can be challenging, especially when facing language barriers, unfamiliar laws, and unique circumstances. That’s why our team of experienced attorneys and law students is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
Employment Law
Navigating employment-related legal matters can be complex. Our team can assist you with a wide range of employment law issues, including:
- Employment contracts and agreements
- Workplace discrimination and harassment
- Unfair dismissal and wrongful termination
- Wage and hour disputes
- Employment standards and regulations
Small Claims
If you are involved in a small claims dispute, our team can guide you through the process and provide representation. Our small claims services cover:
- Debt recovery
- Property damage claims
- Breach of contract disputes
- Consumer protection issues
- Landlord-tenant disputes
Notary Services
Our qualified notaries can assist you with various notarial services, ensuring the authenticity and legality of important documents. Our notary services include:
- Affidavits and statutory declarations
- Notarized copies of documents
- Authentication and certification of documents
- Witnessing signatures
Tenant Law
If you have concerns or issues related to your tenancy, our team can provide advice and representation in matters such as:
- Lease agreements and negotiations
- Rent arrears and eviction notices
- Repairs and maintenance disputes
- Tenant rights and responsibilities
- Rental tribunal proceedings
Social Benefit
Understanding and accessing social benefit programs can be overwhelming. We can help you navigate the complexities of social benefit law, including:
- Employment insurance (EI) claims
- Income assistance programs
- Disability benefits
- Pension and retirement benefits
- Social welfare programs
Family Law
When dealing with family-related legal matters, sensitivity and expertise are essential. Our family law services cover various areas, including:
- Divorce and separation
- Child custody and visitation
- Child and spousal support
- Property division
- Domestic violence and protection orders
Immigration Law
Navigate the complexities of immigration laws, ensuring a smooth transition to your new life in Canada, including:
- Renewing your PR application
- Applying for Canadian Citizenship
- Applying for a Canadian Passport.
How It Works
We have streamlined our process to make it easy for you to access the legal assistance you need. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how our service operates:
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1.
Submit Required Documents:
Begin by submitting the necessary documents for the eligibility check. We will review these documents to assess your eligibility for our services.
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2.
Profile Review by SJNC:
Our team at the Saint John Newcomers Centre (SJNC) will carefully review your profile and documents. We ensure a thorough assessment and, if required, provide interpretations or clarifications to understand your unique circumstances better.
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3.
Matching with a Law Student:
Each profile is carefully matched with a dedicated law student based on their expertise in specific practice areas. This personalized approach ensures that you receive tailored guidance and support throughout the process.
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4.
Contact from Assigned Lawyer:
Once your profile has been matched with a law student, an experienced lawyer will reach out to you. They will discuss working hours and mutually convenient meeting times to ensure effective collaboration.
Client-Attorney Cooperation and Conduct
At the SJNC legal clinic, we believe in building strong partnerships with our clients based on mutual respect and collaboration. To maintain a productive working relationship, we expect the following:
- Attendance and Commitment: Clients assigned to an attorney are expected to attend all scheduled appointments and actively participate in the process.
- Confidentiality and Privacy: We prioritize the confidentiality of your case and require clients to refrain from sharing case information on social media or other platforms without permission.
- Role and involvement of law students: Our dedicated law students work closely with our project advisors to provide essential information and support. They assist in completing application forms, assembling required documents, and matching clients with specialized attorneys, ensuring you receive the right legal guidance.
Appointment Booking
1. Contact the SJNC: Get in touch with the Saint John Newcomers Centre to initiate the appointment booking process. You can reach us through the following contact details:
- Phone: 506-642-4242
- Email: doaa.higazy@sjnewcomers.ca
- Or fill out Client Intake form online
2. Provide Required Information: During your initial contact, please provide us with the necessary details, including your name, contact information, and a brief description of your legal matter. This information will help us assess your needs and assign the most suitable law student and lawyer to assist you.
3. Availability of Law Students: Our law students’ availability may vary based on their ongoing studies and commitments. However, we strive to accommodate your schedule as much as possible. Once we have gathered your information, we will work diligently to find a convenient appointment time for you.
4. Confirmation of Appointment: After scheduling your appointment, you will receive a confirmation notification via email or phone. This confirmation will include the date, time, and location of your appointment, along with any additional instructions or requirements.
Get Involved
We believe that creating a welcoming and inclusive community requires the collective effort of individuals like you. If you are passionate about supporting newcomers in Saint John and want to make a difference in their lives, there are several ways you can get involved with the Legal Clinic for Newcomers:
Law Student Volunteer Opportunities:
Are you a law student looking to gain practical experience while making difference in the lives of newcomers in Saint John? Join our team at the Legal Clinic for Newcomers and contribute your skills and knowledge to support our important work.
As a law student volunteer, you will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced legal professionals, providing valuable assistance to individuals who require legal guidance. Your role will involve various responsibilities, including:
- Legal Research and Analysis: Conduct research on specific legal issues and assist in analyzing relevant laws and regulations.
- Client Intake and Support: Engage in client intake procedures, assist in gathering information, and provide guidance on the legal process
- Documentation and Case Management: Help in preparing legal documents, assembling case files, and ensuring accurate record-keeping.
- Collaborative Teamwork: Collaborate with our legal team, sharing insights and ideas to enhance the quality of our services.
Volunteering at our clinic offers a unique opportunity to apply your legal education in a practical setting, develop essential skills, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of newcomers. It also provides valuable networking opportunities and a chance to learn from experienced legal professionals.
To get involved as a law student volunteer, please fill out the volunteer application form on our website (or contact via email). We will review your application and get in touch with you to discuss further details.
Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the Legal Clinic for Newcomers in Saint John by spreading the word. Share our website, social media posts, and success stories with your friends, family, and colleagues. By amplifying our message, you can help us reach more individuals in need of legal assistance and connect them with the resources we offer.
Collaborations and Partnerships: We value collaboration and partnership with law firms and legal professionals who share our commitment to supporting newcomers. If you represent a law firm or have ideas for collaborations, please reach out to us. Together, we can work towards creating a stronger support system for newcomers in our community and ensure that their legal needs are met effectively. Your expertise and resources can make a significant impact in improving access to justice for newcomers in Saint John.
By getting involved with the Legal Clinic for Newcomers in Saint John, you join a network of dedicated individuals who are passionate about ensuring equal access to justice for all. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of newcomers and contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long the process will take?
Processing times vary based on the applicant’s case complexity.
What documents do I need to bring to prove my financial eligibility for the Legal Clinic?
Document Requirement
- Tax Notice of Assessment
- Identification (e.g. social insurance card, driver’s license, or Medicare card).
- Recent pay stubs, received during thirty (30) days prior to date of application
- Income Assistance stubs
- Employment Insurance statements
- Pension statements
- Allowance documents
- Self-Declaration
- Bank Statement
- Letter of Reference
- Other income benefit statements (Proof of allowable deductions e.g. receipts).
INCOME GUIDELINE
Eligibility and contribution based on annual income (after allowable deductions)
| TIER 1 | TIER 2 | TIER 3 | |
| Household Size | No Contribution | 20%-50% contribution | Not Financially Eligible One-time free consultation |
| 1 | 0 – $15,000 | $15,001 – $31,200 | $31,201 + |
| 2 | 0 – $33,600 | $33,601 – $45,600 | $45,601 + |
| 3 | 0 – $34,800 | $34,801 – $46,800 | $46,801 + |
| 4 | 0 – $37,200 | $37,201 – $50,400 | $50,401 + |
| 5 | 0 – $39,600 | $39,601 – $54,000 | $54,001 + |
| 6+ | 0 – $42,000 | $42,001 – $56,400 | $56,401 + |
Assuming the service(s) identified on your application fall within the SJNC scope of service; if your income falls in:
Tier 1: You are financially eligible for legal assistance and will be issued a certificate. You are not required to make an initial client contribution.
Tier 2: You are financially eligible for the SJNC legal assistance and will be issued a certificate upon receipt of your client contribution if needed.
Tier 3: You are not financially eligible for legal assistance and will not be issued a certificate but you will be allowed a one-time free consultation with a legal professional.
NOTE: Clients are required to inform the SJNC of any changes in their financial situation immediately after they are aware of such changes.
What happens if I don’t have all the required documents?
If you can’t provide a document, please advise someone at the legal project right away to see what can be done.
What are the expected/ incurred fees for this service?
It’s free for low-income newcomers.
Can I still apply if my spouse or partner has already made a family disputed?
Yes, you are still eligible to apply for family legal assistance if your spouse has previously done so.
Media Articles
Learn more about our Legal Project by reading this informative media article:
CBC | Saint John legal clinic pairs newcomers with law students
Funding to Increase Access to Justice for Racialized Newcomers in New Brunswick
Partnerships and Collaborations
