Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre
The Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre provides free legal representation and support services to Indigenous clients across British Columbia who cannot access our in-person Indigenous Justice Centres.
The virtual centre is designed to bridge the gap in legal access so those living in communities without an in-person Indigenous Justice Centre nearby can still access high quality legal representation. By using simplified technology to deliver free legal advice, specialized representation, and trusted referral services virtually, we can empower and support Indigenous clients regardless of where they live.
These virtual services are offered exclusively by the BC First Nations Justice Council through the Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre, funded by the provincial government.
How does the Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre work?
The VIJC receives requests for legal assistance through a toll-free line which is answered by a trained call-taker. The call-taker, known as a navigator, uses customized software to make a booking with a free lawyer after asking a few questions including the type of issue and the area where the caller lives. These questions help the navigator match the caller with the best lawyer, based on the type of law involved (for example, criminal matters or child protection).
The VIJC covers the entire province of BC and, since it receives requests from callers both within and outside of our three physical IJC catchment areas (located in Prince George, Prince Rupert and Merritt), the navigator has the ability to make bookings with either a virtual IJC lawyer or a physical IJC lawyer. Once the booking is confirmed, then the standard practices of a law clinic take over between legal assistant, lawyer and client and the navigator is no longer involved. There is no cost to use the legal services of the VIJC.
When a caller is booked with a virtual lawyer, most interactions occur by phone except when an in-person appearance is required on the part of the lawyer. Virtual lawyers also utilize email, postal mail, video meetings and other options depending on the client’s situation and access to technology.
Eligibility for Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre
Indigenous Justice Centre Eligibility Update – March 1st, 2024
All Indigenous Peoples, regardless of whether they qualify for legal aid, can access free legal and outreach services if they are facing a criminal or child protection issue. Get free help at one of our Indigenous Justice Centres in Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Surrey, Kelowna, Prince George, Merritt, Prince Rupert, Chilliwack or through our Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre.
The Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre (VIJC) will endeavor to provide helpful information and referral assistance to any caller, no matter what their legal situation. However, to make a booking with a free lawyer, callers must meet the following criteria:
- Self-identify as Indigenous
- Have a case in the province of BC
- Have access to a phone or be prepared to call in to speak with a lawyer at a preset agreed-upon time
Call us if you’re eligible
If you believe you meet the eligibility requirements, we invite you to call the VIJC, toll-free, at 1-866-786-0081 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Email us if you’re eligible
If you prefer to contact us via email, please reach out anytime to [email protected]. When sending an email, please do not share any detailed information about your legal case.