WCEL > Services > Legal Assistance

Providing summary legal advice and representation is a key component of our work. West Coast is committed to empowering British Columbians by providing them with individualized legal information, advice and representation on how they can protect the environment. We answer calls on an extremely diverse array of environmental issues from municipal protection of riparian zones to interpretation of the Kyoto Protocol on climate change. By explaining the legal, administrative and political processes that affect their lives, we help community groups and individuals to select the strategies that best allow them to protect the environment. This service is provided to all residents of British Columbia who could not otherwise afford a lawyer, and our toll-free phone line (1 800 330-WCEL) allows anyone, anywhere in BC, to speak to one of our staff lawyers. In select cases West Coast lawyers will also represent clients in government processes, court or tribunals.

West Coast staff lawyers also participate in a unique international summary advice program (Environmental Lawyers Alliance Worldwide, ELAW) which operates through a confidential internet discussion group. ELAW allows public interest environmental lawyers from around the world to share information on laws, policies, cases, strategies, expert assistance and comparative environmental law.