NOVA SCOTIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, CORRECTIONAL SERVICES DIVISION | MINISTÈRE DE LA JUSTICE DE LA NOUVELLE-ÉCOSSE, DIVISION DES SERVICES CORRECTIONNELS

Purpose

The objective of the Indigenous Courtwork Program is to facilitate and enhance access to justice by assisting Indigenous Persons (adults and youth) charged with an offence under any federal or provincial statute, municipal by-law, or otherwise involved in the criminal justice system to obtain fair, just, equitable and culturally relevant treatment. These services include information on charges, court procedures, rights and responsibilities, bail, diversion, restorative justice and Indigenous community justice alternatives; support in accessing legal resources as well as appropriate community programming including wellness, trauma, housing, family and employment services; and, facilitating communication among court officials, accused persons, family members and communities to ensure understanding and collaboration.