Criminal charges

You can get a lawyer to represent you in your criminal case if you will, if convicted:

  • go to jail (some exceptions apply, see note),
  • face a conditional sentence that would severely limit your liberty,
  • lose your way of earning a living, or
  • face an immigration proceeding that could lead to your deportation from Canada.

Note: LSS no longer covers the least serious offences, even if you face other outstanding charges or there is a risk of jail. These offences include breach of probation, breach of bail, motor vehicle offences, and failure to appear in court.

You can also get a lawyer to represent you if you:

  • have a physical condition or disability or mental or emotional illness that makes it impossible for you to represent yourself, or
  • are Aboriginal and the case affects your ability to follow a traditional livelihood of hunting and fishing.

Note: If you are a young person charged with a federal offence, you are entitled to legal representation. However a youth in the care of the Ministry of Children and Family Development must speak to their social worker to arrange for a lawyer.