Legal Aid Ontario (Duty Counsel) - Windsor, ON | Canada Lawyer Directory

Legal Assistance for Low-Income Residents

Immediate Court Support: Duty Counsel are lawyers provided by Legal Aid Ontario who assist individuals appearing in criminal court without their own lawyer. They can help with bail hearings, adjournments, and guilty pleas for less serious offences, ensuring that unrepresented accused persons understand their rights and the court process.
Summary Legal Advice: Staff provide immediate advice to those in custody or arriving for a first appearance. While they do not take on the full representation of a case for trial (which requires a Legal Aid Certificate), they bridge the gap for critical initial stages of the justice system.
Bail Hearings: One of the most critical functions is assisting with bail. Duty counsel interviews the accused and potential sureties to present a release plan to the court, aiming to prevent unnecessary pre-trial detention.

Financial Eligibility: While some brief services are available to everyone, most substantive legal assistance is income-tested. Staff at this office can assist residents in applying for a Legal Aid Certificate, which allows them to hire a private defense lawyer for more serious or complex charges.
Court Proximity: Located at 200 Chatham Street East, this office is situated directly adjacent to the Windsor Superior Court of Justice and the Ontario Court of Justice, facilitating easy access for those attending court dates.