The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) is expanding its services to include direct legal assistance at no cost to individuals, 18 years and older, who have experienced sexual misconduct in a Department of National Defence (DND)/Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) context.
Starting today, the Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) Program is launching the services of a full-time bilingual independent legal counsel with a background in the prosecution of sexual offences and knowledge of the military justice system.
The ILA Program supports individuals in making informed choices that align with their needs, goals, and circumstances, while helping them understand their rights and options.
Since May 2023, individuals who have experienced sexual misconduct within a DND/CAF context can also apply for reimbursement of eligible legal expenses if they consulted an external lawyer in Canada. Eligible expenses must have been incurred on or after April 1, 2019.
