Nova Scotia Legal Aid – Social Justice Office – Halifax, NS

Access to Justice for All

Social Justice and Family Law

The Nova Scotia Legal Aid (NSLA) office located in the Halifax Shopping Centre (Halifax Place) provides critical legal assistance to vulnerable Nova Scotians. This specific location houses the Social Justice Office, which specializes in poverty law. The dedicated team here assists individuals facing issues with Income Assistance, Canada Pension Plan (CPP) disability benefits, Employment Insurance (EI), and residential tenancy disputes (landlord/tenant issues). It serves as a lifeline for those whose basic needs and housing are at risk.

Comprehensive Legal Services

In addition to social justice matters, this office supports Family Law cases. Qualified applicants can receive full legal representation (“a lawyer for the case”) for serious matters such as child protection, custody, and separation. For those who may not qualify for full representation, the office offers summary advice services-a one-time consultation to help guide individuals through the legal process.

Eligibility and Application

Services are primarily based on financial need and the merit of the case. Applicants generally must be receiving social assistance or have an equivalent low income. The application process can be started online or in-person. The office strives to remove barriers to justice, offering services in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. The location within the Halifax Shopping Centre complex ensures it is easily accessible by public transit and has ample parking.

Youth and Duty Counsel

NSLA also provides counsel for youth involved in the justice system and offers duty counsel services at courthouses. While the lawyers spend much of their time in court, the administrative staff at this Mumford Road location play a vital role in processing applications and connecting clients with the right legal resources.

• Housing: Eviction defense and tenancy disputes.
• Income Security: Appeals for welfare, CPP, and EI.
• Family Law: Custody, access, and child protection.
• Representation: Full legal service for eligible clients.