Alberta Foster Parent Association Program Description
The Legal Assistance Program was initiated in 2003 and developed to provide financial assistance for foster parents and their adult children when charged with a criminal offence (abuse) under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act against a foster child they have cared for or are caring for. Minor children are eligible for legal counsel through the normal Legal Aid program or by virtue of Section 11. (2) of the Young Offenders Act and cannot access this program.
What you are entitled to under the Legal Assistance Program:
Under this program your family has the right to access payment assistance for legal counsel of $74.00 per hour to a maximum of $8,000.00 including disbursements. (Please note: this program will not cover legal expenses for appeals).
What you should do if you or a family members is charged with abuse:
- Contact a lawyer of your choice and verify that he/she will provide the required service at the above mentioned rate. You will be responsible for any charges above the amounts funded under this program.
- Contact the Alberta Foster Parent Association and ask them to provide you with a Notice of Eligibility letter. (Phone: 1-800-667-2372 or within Edmonton 429-9923)
- You will need to provide a copy of the charges, a copy of your Agreement to Foster and the name, address and phone number of the lawyer you choose to use to represent you to the Executive Director of the Alberta Foster Parent Association.
Executive Director
Alberta Foster Parent Association
Suite 102, 9622 – 42 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T6E 5Y4
director@afpaonline.com
- Present the Notice of Eligibility letter to your lawyer.
- Have your lawyer confirm in writing to the Executive Director of the Alberta Foster Parent Association a statement indicating his/her willingness to represent you.
- You will be asked to enter into an agreement with the Alberta Foster Parent Association setting out the payment method and maximum amount that you are entitled to under this program.
Please feel free to contact the office if you have any other questions or concerns.
