Legal Aid Alberta Process: Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about applying for Legal Aid Alberta for family law matters.
1. What is Legal Aid Alberta?
Legal Aid Alberta (LAA) is a publicly funded organization that provides legal services to Albertans who cannot afford to hire a lawyer. The organization operates independently but receives funding from the Alberta government and the Law Foundation of Alberta.
For family law matters, Legal Aid Alberta can provide:
- Full representation by a staff lawyer or private lawyer on a legal aid certificate
- Duty counsel services at court
- Legal advice and guidance
- Assistance with court documents
- Emergency legal services for urgent matters
Contact Legal Aid Alberta:
Phone: 1-866-845-3425 (toll-free)
Online: legalaid.ab.ca
2. Eligibility Requirements
Legal Aid Alberta uses a two-part eligibility test: financial eligibility and merit of the case.
2026 Income Guidelines
| Family Size | Monthly Net Income Limit | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,668 | $20,016 |
| 2 people | $2,066 | $24,792 |
| 3 people | $2,741 | $32,892 |
| 4 people | $3,277 | $39,324 |
| 5 people | $3,704 | $44,448 |
| Each additional | +$427 | +$5,124 |
Other Eligibility Factors
- Assets: Your savings, property equity, and investments are considered
- Debts: Outstanding debts may affect eligibility positively
- Household expenses: Necessary expenses like childcare may be deducted
- Merit: Your case must have reasonable prospects of success
- Coverage: The type of matter must be one Legal Aid covers
Tip:
Even if your income is slightly above the guidelines, apply anyway. Circumstances like high childcare costs, medical expenses, or recent job loss may qualify you.
3. What Family Law Matters Are Covered?
Legal Aid Alberta prioritizes certain family law matters, particularly those involving children or safety.
Generally Covered
Child Custody & Parenting
Contested custody matters, parenting time disputes, guardianship applications
Child & Spousal Support
Support applications, variations, and enforcement matters
Family Violence
Emergency protection orders, restraining orders, safety planning
Child Welfare
Cases involving Children's Services, apprehensions, guardianship by CFS
Limited or Not Covered
Uncontested Divorce
Simple divorces without contested issues typically not covered
Property Division Only
Pure property disputes without children involved may not qualify
4. How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for Legal Aid Alberta:
Contact Legal Aid Alberta
Call 1-866-845-3425 or visit an office. The initial call takes about 15-20 minutes to assess basic eligibility.
Gather Required Documents
Photo ID, proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), proof of expenses, any court documents you've received.
Complete Application
Submit a detailed application with all financial information and case details.
Attend Interview (if required)
Some applications require an in-person or phone interview for further assessment.
Receive Decision
Decisions typically take 1-2 weeks. Emergency matters can be expedited.
5. Alternatives if Denied
If you don't qualify for Legal Aid or are denied, there are still options available:
Appeal the Decision
If your circumstances have changed or you have new information, you can appeal or reapply.
Unbundled Legal Services
Many lawyers offer limited scope representation where they help with specific tasks (like document preparation) while you handle other parts yourself.
Student Legal Services
University of Alberta's Student Legal Services provides free assistance for some family matters. Call (780) 492-2226.
Pro Bono Law Alberta
Connects eligible Albertans with lawyers providing free legal services. Visit pbla.ca.
Court & Client Support Services
Alberta courts offer self-help resources, family court counsellors, and Resolution Services to help self-represented litigants.
Payment Plans
Many family lawyers, including our firm, offer payment plans to make legal representation more accessible.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Need Legal Help in Edmonton?
Whether you qualify for Legal Aid or need to explore other options, we can help you understand your choices. We offer free initial consultations and flexible payment plans.