Programs
NATIVE COURTWORKERS
The
native courtworkers program offers legal assistance to native
persons involved in the criminal and penal justice system. This
service is available to persons in adult court and in juvenile
court.
Native courtworkers provide counselling and assistance to
clients to ensure their just and fair treatment in a judicial
process unfamiliar with the ways and customs of native people.
Native courtworkers meet with, advise and assist any native
person charged with an offence under federal or provincial law,
or under municipal or band by laws.
Native courtworkers are also empowered to help the communities
they serve develop and establish alternatives to the current
justice system which better meet community member's needs and
aspirations.
This program is financed according to a federal-provincial
agreement. the Department of Justice Canada reimburses half of
the program costs to the Quebec Government.
NATIVE
LIAISON OFFICERS
This program is available to all native inmates at federal
penitentiaries in Quebec.
Native liaison officers assist the native inmates in their case
management. They counsel and assist inmates concerning the
penitentiary system and the importance of taking part in
appropriate programs that will facilitate their re-integration
into their communities. The program aims to involve inmates
directly in the development and implementation of their
correctional and release plans.
Native liaison officers inform correctional service of Canada
personnel regarding the lifestyle of native people and the
cultural differences among the first nations. Correctional
personnel are thereby better equipped to perform their duties in
light of the specific needs of native inmates.
Native liaison officers participate in the development of native
fraternities in penitentiaries and encourage inmates to become
involved in social and spiritual activities, in co-operation
with
native elders.
DEVELOPMENT
Since the Native Para-Judicial Services of Quebec is an organization involved in the administration of justice within Aboriginal communities, it also helps the interested communities to develop community initiatives to increase community involvement in peacekeeping and harmony.
To improve
judicial services within Aboriginal communities and to meet the
needs of the members of the communities we can help developing:
- Public Security Committee;
- Justice Committee;
- Sentencing Management Circle;
- Healing Circle;
- Justice model adapted to Aboriginal communities;
- Restorative justice;
- Alternative to imprisonment.
Any other alternative to the current judicial system depending
on the interest of the members of the communities
