Aboriginal Courtworker Program

600-1874 Scarth Steet
Regina SK   S4P 4B3
Phone: (306) 787-6467   Fax: (306) 787-0078  
E-mail: clafontaine@courtworker.com
National Web Site: www.courtworker.com  

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The Saskatchewan Aboriginal Courtworker Program provides important services that assist Aboriginal adults and youth in conflict with the law.  Courtworkers help to ensure that Aboriginal people who are alleged to have committed a criminal offence receive fair and just treatment before the courts.

What do Courtworkers do?

Courtworkers:

• explain the reason for the charges to the accused;
• provide general information about legal rights and responsibilities;
• help the accused get legal counsel;
• act as a liaison between the accused and the police, defence lawyers, the court or the Crown prosecutor;
• ensure the accused understands all court proceedings;
• translate court proceedings for the accused if he or she is not fluent in English; and
• accompany the accused to court appearances.

Who can use the Aboriginal Courtworker program?

The Courtworker program is designed to meet the unique needs of Aboriginal people.

How many Courtworkers are there in Saskatchewan?

There are 35 full and part-time Courtworkers working for 15 agencies in Saskatchewan. These include tribal councils, friendship centres and other organizations contracted to provide the program.

Are Courtworker services available everywhere in the province?

Courtworker services are provided for 76 per cent of all places in the province where court is held.