Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Legal aid, as I understand it, is provided by this government, and the department, to persons who otherwise would not be legally represented in court. I do not know what the exact guidelines are. Every time someone goes in front of the justice of the peace or a judge for a minor offence, they are not automatically entitled to legal aid. I wonder if, in fact, my interpretation of this is correct? Is a person required to apply and show that they are unable to secure counsel within their means to defend themselves against a serious charges? Is this correct? Is this a service where there are lawyers sitting in court, telling people they represent them, and subsequently billing the government. Is it something as simple as this or is it more complicated?
Tony Whitford on Committee Motion 77-12(3): To Adopt Recommendation 14
In the Legislative Assembly on March 2nd, 1993. See this statement in context.
Committee Motion 77-12(3): To Adopt Recommendation 14
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
March 1st, 1993
Page 714
See context to find out what was said next.