The B.C. government, working with the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC), will open a new Indigenous justice centre in Cranbrook.
The local justice centre was included in the latest round of six new facilities announced in Kamloops, Williams Lake, Cranbrook, Port Hardy, Fort St. John and Burns Lake.
“IJCs provide Indigenous clients with optimum legal representation and access to wraparound services that extend beyond their legal needs,” said Kory Wilson, BCFNJC chair.
“As those accessing our services often feel overwhelmed and disconnected from community, IJCs embrace them with care, honour their cultural identity and protect them from falling through the cracks.”
The six new centres join nine others across B.C. in Chilliwack, Kelowna, Merritt, Nanaimo, Prince George, Prince Rupert, Surrey, Vancouver and Victoria along with a virtual centre serving the whole province.
The justice centres will offer legal advice, representation and referrals to local support services directly to Indigenous clients.
“All Indigenous Peoples, regardless of whether they qualify for legal aid, can access free, culturally informed legal and outreach services at IJCs,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General.
“I am grateful to all our partners in delivering services that help build resilient communities and improve our justice system.”
B.C. officials say the justice centres aim to help Indigenous people in the justice system address the root causes of their involvement and offer support to help prevent future interactions with police and the justice system.
“Legal and outreach teams at the IJCs use their diverse community, cultural and professional expertise to support the healing and restorative-justice journeys of Indigenous clients,” said B.C. officials.
“Through resource and support workers, clients may be referred to services such as housing, employment services, and mental health and addictions treatment.”
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