According to a news release on the Court of Appeal’s website, this initiative aims to provide support to self-represented litigants through the assistance of volunteer lawyers. The program will operate on Wednesdays, focusing on single judge motions.
Volunteer lawyers participating in the program will serve as duty counsel, appearing as amicus curiae, or “friends of the court,” on a pro bono basis. Their role includes offering advice and making submissions to support self-represented litigants. Additionally, duty counsel will provide summary advice on materials and court procedures to those visiting the public counter.
Court staff will prioritize scheduling single judge motions involving self-represented litigants on Wednesdays, and self-represented litigants interested in participating in the program must attend court in person on these days. Counsel arguing single judge motions on Wednesdays are also encouraged to be present in person.