Stories

Helping people through a major life crisis: Spotlight on London duty counsel

October 6, 2026

The best part of working as a duty counsel lawyer is helping someone navigate the justice system who might otherwise be overwhelmed and confused by their legal matter.

Seeing the humanity in clients: Spotlight on Lindsay duty counsel

October 1, 2026

Many of the people who end up in the criminal justice system are there after making a poor choice due to an addiction or mental health issue, says Karamvir Singh.

Making a difference for people who are struggling: Spotlight on Sarnia duty counsel

October 1, 2026

Clients of duty counsel lawyers are often going through one of the most difficult times in their lives, says Dawn Trudel, duty counsel for Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) in Sarnia.  

Marcus Threndyle

September 29, 2025

“The right to a lawyer includes the right to understand and be understood,” says Marcus Threndyle, youth criminal duty counsel lawyer.

Dan Furey

October 23, 2023

Duty Counsel Lawyer for Legal Aid NL

Yan Massé

October 14, 2022

Duty counsel – Northern Legal Aid Office

“The responsibility that comes along with being a criminal defence lawyer is the most fulfilling work in law. It is intense and can be gritty. If I can assist a client in asserting their rights and help achieve a fair day in court, I have done a meaningful thing. There is nothing more exhilarating than that. There is a lot at stake, but it is so rewarding.”

“A lot of people feel very alone in the justice system. We’re there to help them navigate the system and figure out release plans and next steps. We’re on their side.”

“I think it’s important to recognize that most people who come into contact with the justice system are vulnerable and often marginalized. They’re struggling with addiction, poverty, homelessness and are often victims themselves. I believe that all individuals deserve our help.”

"Your endless support for clients across Canada has been the difference between my clients surviving or not. Their ex-spouses lock the finances so they have no access to pay a law firm. I was one of them myself. I came to duty counsel for support."

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