Access to Justice and Fair Proceedings: The Fundamental Conflict Between an Inherently Complex Justice System and Self-Representation

Event Description

This talk will focus on how most cases involve necessary substantive, procedural and evidentiary complexities which make it difficult to impossible for a person without legal training to represent themselves. Further, solutions to this inherent conflict between a complex legal system and growing self-representation cannot be solved by changing the rules of evidence or having the judge act in a counsel role. The talk will explore court applications indigent self-represented persons can make in criminal and civil proceedings for the appointment of counsel to protect the fairness of the proceedings.

This lecture is part of a series of lectures and events offered during Access to Justice Week BC.

To receive a Zoom link for this lecture reach out to: contact@accesstojusticebc.ca

Speaker

Nikos Harris is an award-winning professor who also has extensive experience as appellate counsel. He has authored numerous articles on issues in criminal law and evidence, and his writing has been cited in a number of trial and appellate judgments. Nikos has served as a guest speaker for a number of organizations including Continuing Legal Education, the Trial Lawyers Association, and Crown Counsel of British Columbia. He is also is an advocacy advisor for the Supreme Court Advocacy Institute which assists counsel in preparing submissions for the Supreme Court of Canada. Nikos served as a judicial clerk at the British Columbia Court of Appeal and was a Raymond Herbert Award recipient.