Community FAQs

What services does PATH offer?

PATH offers a wide range of services. We have experience with prison law and advocacy including habeas corpus hearings, as well as in civil litigation (lawsuits) against institutions such as police departments, or prisons. For more information on our services click the button below to be redirected to our services page.
How can I schedule an intake with PATH?

You can get an intake with PATH by calling our Office Manager at 902 - 704 - 3826, or emailing her at m.macdonald@pathlegal.ca, or by filling out our intake form (linked below).
Is PATH the same thing as Legal Aid?

PATH and Legal Aid are different services with two major differences. 1. Cost of services Legal Aid receives regular funding from the government so that they can offer free legal services. PATH does not receive regular funding, and must charge minimum costs for services in order to continue to hold systems accountable. 2. Types of services Legal Aid primarily offers criminal defence law and family law. This means that Legal Aid lawyers represent accused people in court and offer a range of services linked to divorce and child custody. In contrast, PATH does not offer family law and offers minimal criminal defence work. Our major services that we offer (that Legal Aid does not) include legal representation for people who are incarcerated and civil lawsuits against government institutions. *Where we have capacity, PATH lawyers may accept a Legal Aid certificate. If you have a certificate for a particular legal issue, schedule an intake with us to see if we are able to take your case on.
Can PATH be my lawyer?

PATH may be able to offer you legal representation, dependent upon the particular circumstances of your case. In order to find out if we can represent you, schedule an intake with us!
How much do PATH’s services cost?

PATH is a low cost law firm that offers flexible payment plans for clients. We charge minimum amounts for each service including drafting documents, and offering legal representation. Fees change depending on the service offered. If you are curious about fees for a particular service, check out that service's page on this website, or give us a call at 902-706-4607.
I already have a lawyer, but need more help. What should I do?

If you already have legal representation, PATH may be limited in what we can help with. Please contact our Office Manager at 902 704 3628 or m.macdonald@pathlegal.ca with the details of your matter and your lawyer's contact information to see if we can help you.
I don’t live in Nova Scotia, but need legal support. Can PATH help me?

PATH is a prison law hub for Atlantic Canada. If you live in an Atlantic province, please reach out to PATH to see how we may assist you. If you are not in an Atlantic province, PATH may be able to support you or refer you to a lawyer in your area. If you want to know what PATH can do for you, call or email our Office Manager at 902 704 3628 or m.macdonald@pathlegal.ca, or fill out an intake form on our website.
I’ve never been to jail or prison, but need legal support. Can PATH help me?

PATH offers legal assistance and representation to everyone whether they have been incarcerated or not. Our work often concerns folks who have been incarcerated, but it is not a necessary requirement for our assistance.
I’m interested in learning more about or joining one of your class actions. What should I do?

If you are interested in one of our class actions, please fill out our class action intake form linked below. If you cannot access the intake form, please call our Office Manager at 902 704 3628 to let her know of your interest.