The Community Legal Education Association (“CLEA”) provides legal information to Manitobans that helps them understand and navigate their legal situation. With its Law Phone-In and Lawyer Referral Program, callers can access legal information and advice from staff lawyers, and if appropriate, referrals to law-related agencies and a separate referral to a lawyer on the Lawyer Referral Panel. Additionally, CLEA provides presentations, workshops, and plain language publications on various legal matters.
Legal Aid Manitoba (“LAM”) provides legal assistance to individuals who qualify financially and whose cases have merit. LAM provides services in the following areas: public interest matters, family, immigration and refugee, residential tenancies, child protection, mental health, and criminal matters. LAM’s lawyers regularly travel to more than forty communities surrounding Manitoba’s major cities.
Legal Help Centre (“LHC”) provides free legal information, self-representation support, system navigation, and referrals to resources through its in-person Drop-in Clinic or telephone appointments. To get legal information, summary advice, or a referral at a Drop-In Clinic, clients must not have a lawyer already assisting them with the matter, not qualify for Legal Aid, and meet the financial eligibility guideline. In some instances, clients may receive further assistance with drafting court documents, writing letters, and legal research.
The Winnipeg Children’s Access Agency (“WCAA”) facilitates contact between children and parents or guardians where there has been evidence of interpersonal violence. The WCAA’s services include supervised visits and exchanges. To encourage safe and positive visits, the WCAA provides age-appropriate toys, comfortable seating, a library area with books and games, and crafts and video games for older children.
For families who have experienced some level of conflict within its relationships or the children are in the care of Child and Family Services, the Brandon Access Exchange Service provides supervised access services to create a safe, neutral, and child-focused environment. The services include supervised visits, intermittent visits, and supervised exchanges. There is a fee for the services.
Candace House offers a safe and home-like refuge for victims and survivors of violent crimes, as well as the loved ones of victims and survivors, while they navigate the court process. Candace House’s services include victim and survivor support services, relevant resources and referrals, and educational workshops.