Conclusion

For the purposes of this research, a navigator program has been defined as one that offers individuals legal information and support throughout processes in the justice system. Individuals who have informal legal training generally provide these programs. However, they are not regulated legal professionals. This scan has identified 27 navigator models across Canada, with options to receive services in person, online, and over the telephone. Existing programs aim to serve the public, sometimes with income eligibility requirements, in addition to specific demographics including victims of domestic and sexual violence, Indigenous populations, individuals with mental health struggles and child victims and witnesses of crime. Navigator programs play an important role in accessing justice. The continued development and implementation of new navigator programs will increase access to justice, assist self-representing litigants at different stages in their justice journey, and provide specialized programs for those most vulnerable.