What is a navigator program?

After reviewing research and engaging in discussions on what a navigator program is, this report defines a navigator program as a program that offers individuals legal information and support throughout processes in the justice system.2 This can include general information on the justice system, support while attending a court or tribunal hearing, obtaining referrals to services (such as mediation, restorative justice), and obtaining and filing legal forms. Some navigator programs have specialized services for specific demographics and may advocate on behalf of the client to legal representatives and court officials. Individuals who have informal legal training generally provide navigator programs. However, they are not regulated legal professionals, such as lawyers and paralegals. Each navigator program is slightly different and aims to fulfill the needs of those who may not be able to access justice otherwise.

Navigator programs offer a variety of services, which can be broken down into three primary categories- general services, court and tribunal-related services, and specialized services. General services offered by navigator programs include general legal information, assistance navigating different aspects and processes involved in the justice system, understanding rights and options, providing information regarding next steps in the case and referrals to other services.

Court and tribunal-related services include information about court procedures and processes, assistance obtaining and filing court forms, preparation for attending court, touring court prior to court date and then attending court, communication with court officials, and advocacy with court officials (including counsel and judges).

Specialized services could include any service that requires specialized knowledge or additional training such as restorative and culturally relevant practices for Indigenous persons, trauma-informed services, counselling and more. Specialized services were most commonly seen in programs that serve victims of domestic or sexual violence, child victims and witnesses and individuals with mental health struggles.

Footnotes

2 Legal information explains the law and legal system in plain language; legal advice applies the law to a specific case or situation. Navigators provide legal information, but not legal advice to clients.