A group of advocates are alleging cracks in Manitoba’s free legal counsel system could be leaving people in a legal limbo. The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) filed a notice with Manitoba’s Court of Kings Bench alleging Legal Aid Manitoba is under funded by the provincial and federal governments. Shankir Rahim, the director of CCLA’s criminal justice program, made the announcement Thursday. “This crisis of underfunding violates several rights under the charter of rights and freedoms,” Rahim told reporters in front of the Manitoba Legislative Building. Rahim said people who can’t afford a lawyer could be denied if their income exceeds Legal Aid’s cutoff. Rahim said that limitation could create a higher risk of wrongful convictions, inadequate bail hearings, and compromised trials. He said that violates the right to a fair trial, equal protection and benefit of the law, as well as the right to life, liberty, and security. Legal Aid Manitoba’s latest annual report said the federal government gave it $546,000 in 2025; the province gave $16,635,385. CCLA’s notice named the Province of Manitoba and the Governor General of Canada as respondents. Katelyn Moores, a media spokesperson from the federal Department of Justice, said it is reviewing the notice of application. “This funding helps promote fair legal proceedings, improves access to justice for economically disadvantaged individuals, and contributes to the effective functioning of the court system,” Moores’ statement said. A provincial spokesperson said it has no comment as the matter is before the courts. Rahim is calling for a declaration from the governments saying charter rights are being violated and a change to Manitoba’s legal aid regulations. Rahim said people who can’t afford a lawyer could still be denied if their income exceeds Legal Aid’s cutoff. Rahim said that limitation could create a higher risk of wrongful convictions, inadequate bail hearings, and compromised trials. He said that violates the right to a fair trial, equal protection and benefit of the law, as well as the right to life, liberty, and security. Data from Legal Aid’s annual report noted it primarily serves single-person households, with its income cutoff ranging from $31,501 to $43,500. None of the claims have been tested in court.
