Decision Process
Who makes the decision?
The decision to approve or reject your application is made by the Area Director where you applied.
How long will it take?
You should receive a decision from Legal Aid Manitoba (LAM) in 1-2 weeks after you complete your application for legal aid.
How will I be notified?
LAM will send you a written notice of its decision. The possibilities are:
- Your application is approved
- A certificate is issued to a lawyer to represent you, or
- A certificate will be issued only if you agree to pay all of your legal costs at legal aid rates
- Your application is rejected
- The notice will explain the reasons why your application was rejected
- If you don’t agree with the rejection, you can appeal the decision. We will send you an appeal form with your Notice of Rejection
What if I do not receive a written notice?
If you do not receive your written notice within 3 weeks of completing your application, please phone your local Area Office. A staff person can tell you:
- Whether your application has been approved or rejected
- If approved, who your lawyer is
- If rejected, why your application has been rejected
- Whether or not we need more information before we can make a decision
You may be asked to verify your identity by answering questions about the information provided on your application form.
I am approved. What happens next?
LAM will send a certificate to your lawyer. The certificate is a document that authorizes the lawyer to work on your case. It confirms that LAM will pay him or her. Your lawyer will contact you directly within 2 weeks.
LAM may contact the Court to advise of the status of your application.
