The foundation warned that the proposed increase would reduce funding for over 65 non-profits
The Alberta Law Foundation has launched the "Defend Access to Justice" campaign to oppose a proposed increase in its statutory contributions to Legal Aid Alberta.
The foundation warned that the change would reduce funding for over 65 non-profits providing essential legal services to vulnerable populations across the province.
The government of Alberta plans to increase the foundation's statutory contribution to Legal Aid Alberta from 25 per cent to 50 per cent of its annual revenues. This change would reduce the government's financial commitment to Legal Aid Alberta without increasing its budget, forcing the foundation to divert funds away from non-profits that provide critical legal services to vulnerable populations.
The Alberta Law Foundation generates revenue from interest earned on lawyers' pooled trust accounts and distributes it as grants to support access to justice initiatives. These grants fund various organizations that help Albertans navigate the legal system, including those in rural areas, Indigenous communities, and others with limited resources.
Byron Chan, the foundation's executive director, emphasized the potential harm of the proposed changes. "The Alberta Law Foundation is essential in stabilizing Alberta's access to justice ecosystem. By funding programs and initiatives not covered by Legal Aid, the foundation ensures continuity and sustainability in services that are critical for those who would not otherwise have access to justice," Chan said in a statement.
Paul Chiswell, board chair of Alberta Law Foundation, added, "Legal aid is important. The government should continue to fund it without taking money from non-profits."
Leaders from non-profit organizations across the province have voiced their concerns. Lisa Stebbins, executive director of Calgary Legal Guidance, highlighted the risk of service reductions, noting that her organization has relied on the foundation's support for over 50 years. "Increasing Alberta Law Foundation's statutory contributions to Legal Aid Alberta will mean an overall reduction in resources to the justice sector, including community-based programs," Stebbins said.
Kathy Parsons, executive director of the Community Legal Clinic in Central Alberta, emphasized the impact on rural Albertans, who already face significant barriers to accessing legal services.
The foundation also plays a key role in advancing reconciliation efforts. Noreen Demeria from the Indigenous Justice Centre of Alberta noted that the foundation's support has been vital for delivering culturally appropriate legal services and addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action.
The campaign aims to inform the public about the proposal's unintended consequences, including an estimated one-third cut to non-profit funding.
The Alberta Law Foundation has also pointed out that its revenue depends on Canada's prime interest rate, which has recently declined. This volatility further risks Legal Aid Alberta and non-profits if the statutory contribution rate increases. Alberta remains one of only four provinces in Canada requiring its law foundation to fund legal aid, while other jurisdictions rely solely on government revenues.
