Saskatchewan Aboriginal Courtworker Program

The Saskatchewan Aboriginal Courtworker Program's purpose is to facilitate and advocate for justice by assisting Aboriginal people involved in the criminal justice system to obtain fair, just, equitable, and culturally sensitive treatment.

The Aboriginal Courtworker will act as an intermediary between the accused and the criminal justice system in and out of court. This means liaising between the Aboriginal accused and criminal justice personnel to help overcome communication barriers and reduce Aboriginal alienation from the criminal justice system.

In court, the Aboriginal Courtworker's duties are to set dates for a client's next appearance and/or trial, to request adjournments, to enter pleas with proper written instructions on behalf of the defendant, and to make submissions with respect to sentencing Under Section 718.2(e) of the Criminal Code. This section says: A court that imposes a sentence shall also take into consideration the following principles: (e) all available sanctions other than imprisonment that are reasonable in the circumstances should be considered for all offenders, with particular attention to the circumstances of Aboriginal offenders.

This section is part of what is called the "Gladue Decision" which is a group of considerations that helps judges decide what action to take when sentencing accused people, particularily Aboriginal people.

Availability
This program is available to Aboriginal people who require help provided that Court be within the Big River First Nation, Big River, Debden and Spiritwood areas.

Cree Court
Cree Court is available to anyone who requires it. Contact or email the Big River First Nation Courtworker for more details.

Contact