The Native Combined Courtworker Program is available to provide assistance to all Native peoples who are in conflict with the law, whether they are Status, Non-Status or Metis.

Native Courtworker Services Available to the Accused Person:

• Courtworker assists Native individuals by acting as a liaison between the individual and the court.
• Courtworker explains to the individual, the reasons for their arrest and their legal rights and responsibilities regarding the charges against them.
• Courtworker informs the individuals of their right to a full defense, of their right to private or a Legal Aid lawyer, and of their right to speak for themselves in court if they wish.
• Courtworker can obtain, if necessary, the services of Native language interpreters and interpreters of Native culture when it has a bearing on the case.
• Courtworker works with various officials of the court to ensure that an individual receives fair treatment.
• Courtworker can explain to the accused, the meaning of preventative measures such as bail, detention or conditional release that the court may take against them.
• When requested, the courtworker can help prepare Pre-Sentence Reports to ensure that the background of the accused Native person is properly presented.
• Courtworker can explain to a person placed on probation, what it means and exactly what is expected of them.
• Courtworker works with community agencies to help the accused meet their immediate and long-term needs and goals.
• The Courtworker makes contact with the area Native Inmate Liaison Worker if the accused is sentenced to a provincial institution.
• When it is necessary, courtworker visits Native inmates in the jails and penal institutions in their area to provide information and moral support.
• Courtworker provides services in strict confidence to all Native peoples who require them.
• Courtworker explains to the Applicant or the Defendant the procedures of Family Law court.
• the Courtworker works with families in the case of an apprehension by CAS/Payukotayno, directly or indirectly to ensure that all steps are taken to reunite the family.

Although most speak at least one native language, they are not intended to be interpreters for the court.

Courtworkers do not supervise bail or probation although they will make sure the accused understands exactly what they mean.

The main job of the Native Courtworker is to help Native people who are in trouble with the law; however, they also play an important and expanding role in their communities.