Justice Services

Indigenous Courtworker Program

Assists Indigenous people who are navigating through the justice system in the areas of Criminal, Family and Child Welfare matters in local Thunder Bay, Armstrong and Nipigon courts. Assistance is also provided to those appearing in local Municipal court upon request.

Indigenous Community Council Program

An opportunity for Indigenous accused persons to assume responsibility for their actions and behavior that lead them to become in conflict with the law and be a part of repairing harm, while participating in developing self-healing plans.

Indigenous Peoples’ Court Caseworker

This is a specialized court with a focus on healing which is in line with Gladue Principals. It’s an opportunity for Indigenous accused to address their charge(s) holistically and which includes participation by those impacted by the actions/behaviour of the accused.

The Gladue Services Program (Writer and Aftercare)

Gladue Services Worker (Writer) – Prepares Gladue reports for Indigenous accused persons who are looking at doing six months or more of incarceration upon sentencing.
Gladue Services Aftercare Worker – provides supportive services to Indigenous accused persons during the preparation of a Gladue Report, at sentencing, and those following release from custody.

Youth Justice Committee Program

The Thunder Bay Youth Justice Committee Program is based on a restorative approach to justice. It includes participation of victims, offenders and communities to provide an opportunity for healing and reparation for individuals and communities. It gives priority to the offender accountability, needs of the victims, community wellness and healing.

Victim Advocate Program

Provides support, advocacy, and programming to victims of crime, including those currently involved in the main stream criminal justice system, Indigenous Community Council Program and the Indigenous Peoples’ court.

Indigenous Bail Verification Supervision Program

Verify information about the Indigenous accused at judicial interim release proceedings and to assist the court in considering and selecting suitable candidates for Bail and Bail supervision.
Provides adequate supervision services, including access to culturally appropriate programming for Indigenous accused and supports compliance with conditions of bail.

Pro Bono Students Canada Indigenous Human Rights Clinic

*****THIS PROGRAM IS CURRENLY ON HOLD TILL FURTHER NOTICE*****

Pro Bono Students Canada (PBSC) administers an Indigenous Human Rights Clinic at the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (TBIFC). The Clinic is a partnership between PBSC, the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC), and TBIFC. The Clinic offers free summary legal advice and information about human rights and discrimination.

Mental Health Peer Coordinator Program

The Mental Health Peer Coordinator Program is was launched in the Fall of 2021. The goal of the Mental Health Coordinator Program is to provide networks of support and mentorship to urban Indigenous people under community supervision orders as they seek to improve their mental health, reduce any harms associated with behaviours, avoid justice system recidivism, and pursue a Good Mind.