A2J Advisory Network
The Access to Justice Advisory Network (the Advisory Network) is a new initiative led by the Director of Access to Justice and Community Engagement. The A2J Advisory Network will launch in the later part of 2023 comprised of member justice stakeholders in civil, family, criminal and administrative justice in Manitoba. Led by the Director of Access to Justice and Community Engagement, Natasha Brown, the Advisory Network’s broad membership represents the need for inclusion when working to improve the justice system.
What is Access to Justice?
For the Advisory Network, access to justice means all Manitobans have meaningful and timely access to appropriate legal services and dispute resolution mechanisms that produce just results. Fair processes refer to a justice system that is transparent, affordable, and as easy to navigate as possible for Manitobans. It also means that Manitobans have meaningful opportunities to be heard on a timely basis, including being aided by access to legal information and services. At a systemic level, access to justice may involve meaningful opportunities to participate in the development and reform of the law and legal processes and to ensure that the justice system and tis service providers are reflective of all Manitobans.
What exactly is the Access to Justice Advisory Network?
Together, the Advisory Network represents a commitment to building a coherent, collaborative, and coordinated approach to addressing the justice system. Respectful of the distinct roles of the many participants in the justice system who are currently working on initiatives and programs, the Advisory Network avoids duplication of efforts and activities and recognizes that each must work to improve those areas over which it has primary responsibility. The purpose of the Advisory Network is to bring together a concert of voices from stakeholders in pivotal access to justice positions to address issues through a multifaceted lens.
What does the Access to Justice Advisory Network do?
The Advisory Network’s members participate on an in-kind basis with their primary function being to maintain coordination, communication, and collaboration within the access to justice community. This is done is in both formal and informal capacities. Formally, members are expected to attend Annual meetings and contribute to the Director’s Forum on Access to Justice. Members’ contributions and insights guide the focus and direction of the network activities. Informally, members act as conduits between the Advisory Network and their respective organizations to share insights that could be useful to furthering access to justice in either arena. This includes regular communication and collaboration with members, altogether, fostering an organized but de-centralized model of advocacy for access to justice.