Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about what I do, what I don’t, and how we’ll work together in Alberta.
1) What exactly do you do?
I provide non‑legal, administrative, and procedural support for people navigating the Alberta Human Rights Commission (AHRC) process. Think of me as a personal guide and organizer. I help you understand the steps, manage deadlines, organize your facts and documents, and prepare forms — all based on your instructions. I do not provide legal advice or represent you.
2) How are you different from a lawyer?
A lawyer provides legal advice and representation, including interpreting the law, advising on legal strategy, drafting legal arguments, and speaking for you in negotiations or hearings. I provide non‑legal support: process information, paperwork help, and organization, using your information and public resources.
3) Who is your service for?
Individuals in Alberta who have filed — or are considering filing — a human rights complaint and feel overwhelmed by the process. I’m especially helpful if you want help staying organized, understanding what to expect next, or preparing documents in a clear, professional format.
4) Who is your service not for?
If you need immediate legal advice, are unsure whether your situation qualifies as discrimination, or need representation at a hearing, I’m not the right fit. I will refer you to a lawyer, Legal Aid Alberta, or community legal clinics.
Scope & Boundaries
5) Will you tell me if I have a strong case?
No. Assessing case strength, applying law to facts, or predicting outcomes is legal advice. I can help you organize your facts so a lawyer can assess them.
6) Can you help me write legal arguments or choose legal grounds?
No. Selecting legal grounds (e.g., disability, race) and drafting legal arguments is legal advice. I can format AHRC forms and ensure sections are completed based on your decisions.
7) Can you represent me at conciliation or a hearing?
No. I do not act as an AHRC Authorized Representative, and I won’t speak for you or negotiate on your behalf. If permitted by AHRC and the conciliator, I can attend as a quiet support person for confidence and note‑taking only.
Practical Details
8) How do we work together? What is the process?
We start with a Fit Check call. If we proceed, we’ll do an intake where you share your facts and documents. I then create a plan and help build your documents (forms, timelines, etc.) based on your instructions. You always review and send your own filings.
9) How do you keep my information confidential?
I take privacy seriously. Information is stored securely with reasonable safeguards (e.g., password protection, limited access, encryption in transit). See the Privacy Policy for full details.
10) What happens if I need legal advice while we’re working together?
I’ll pause my work and refer you to appropriate resources, such as Legal Aid Alberta or the Law Society of Alberta Lawyer Referral Service. We can resume administrative support after you get legal guidance.
11) What are your fees?
Please see the Services page for the current Fit Check and support options. I’m transparent about costs.
Logistics & Communication
12) How do we communicate and share documents?
Primarily by email and secure video calls. Documents can be shared through reputable file‑sharing tools. If you have accessibility needs (e.g., screen readers, language access), tell me what works best for you.
13) What’s your turnaround time for drafts?
Typical draft turnaround is 2–3 business days after I receive the required information. Rush may be possible depending on availability.
14) Do you guarantee outcomes?
No. I don’t guarantee results. My role is to help you stay organized and present your information clearly. Decisions rest with AHRC/tribunal and with you.
15) Do you work outside Alberta?
My services focus on Alberta. If your matter is in another province, I can sometimes provide general organizational help, but I’ll usually recommend you seek local resources.
16) Are you affiliated with AHRC?
No. I’m independent and not part of the Alberta Human Rights Commission.