Reimbursement for eligible legal costs related to an incident of sexual misconduct in a DND/CAF context

February 20, 2025 - Defence Stories

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The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) is reimbursing people who have incurred costs for legal expenses related to an incident of sexual misconduct within a Department of National Defence (DND)/Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) context. Expenses can be for legal information, advice, and representation in the military or criminal justice systems.

Through its Independent Legal Assistance (ILA) Program, the SMSRC is looking into ways to facilitate access to legal services for its community.

People who have experienced sexual misconduct within a DND/CAF context must have incurred eligible legal fees on or after April 1, 2019, to be eligible for reimbursement. These fees include up to four hours of legal information or advice pertaining to an incident of sexual misconduct within a DND/CAF context. Those who have paid for legal representation by a licensed lawyer in a criminal sexual offence or service offence trial can also apply for reimbursement, under certain conditions.

Interested people can apply to the ILA Program without having to participate in any investigative, administrative, or disciplinary processes. They do not need to report the incident to anyone.

For more information about the ILA Program and the application criteria, you can consult Independent Legal Assistance Program - Canada.ca.

Those who would like more details or be referred to the program can also contact the SMSRC 24/7 line at 1-844-750-1648, to speak with a counsellor or send an email at DND.SMSRC-CSRIS.MDN@forces.gc.ca.