Legal Representation When You Need It Most
At Grayson Law, we believe everyone deserves quality legal representation regardless of their financial circumstances. That’s why we proudly accept Legal Aid Ontario certificates for criminal law matters.
What is a Legal Aid Certificate?
A Legal Aid Ontario certificate is a voucher that covers the cost of legal representation for individuals who meet specific financial eligibility criteria. When you receive a certificate, Legal Aid Ontario pays your lawyer directly—you don’t pay legal fees out of pocket to your lawyer.
Legal Aid Ontario was created to promote access to justice for people facing criminal charges who cannot afford to hire a private lawyer on their own.
Do You Qualify for Legal Aid?
You may be eligible for a Legal Aid Ontario certificate if:
- You have been charged with a criminal offence that could result in jail time if convicted
- You meet Legal Aid Ontario’s financial eligibility requirements based on your income and assets
- You are facing serious charges that require legal representation
As of March 2025, the income threshold for criminal certificate services is $45,440 for families of up to four people, with an asset threshold of $15,000 regardless of family size.
Learn More: Will legal aid pay for my lawyer?
How to Apply for Legal Aid
If you are in custody:
- Legal Aid Ontario can be reached at detention centres
- Contact information is available at the facility
If you are out of custody:
- Apply online through the Legal Aid Ontario Client Portal
- Call Legal Aid Ontario at:
- Toronto: 416-979-1446
- Barrie: 705-737-3400
- Toll-free: 1-800-668-8258
- Apply Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- You should always call before visiting an office. Legal Aid Ontario accepts collect calls.
Legal Aid Additional Contact Information or Live Chat
When you apply, be prepared to provide:
- Personal information (name, date of birth, address)
- Details about the charges you’re facing
- Information about your income and assets
- The name of the lawyer you wish to retain (you can name Grayson Law)
Working With Grayson Law on Legal Aid Certificates
When you apply for Legal Aid Ontario and wish to retain our services:
- Name your lawyer – When Legal Aid asks who you want to represent you, reference Simone Grayson from Grayson Law Firm
- Contact us directly – Once your certificate is approved, reach out to our office with your certificate details
- We acknowledge your certificate – We’ll confirm we can take your case and acknowledge the certificate with Legal Aid
- Your representation begins – We’ll begin working on your defence with the same dedication we provide to all our clients
The Same Quality of Representation
Whether you retain us through Legal Aid Ontario or through private payment, you receive the same level of professional, dedicated legal representation. We are bound by professional ethics to serve every client with equal commitment and care.
All lawyers are governed by the Law Society of Ontario’s Rules of Professional Conduct, which require us to provide competent, thorough representation to every client regardless of how legal fees are paid.
What Legal Aid Covers for Criminal Matters
Legal Aid certificates can cover representation for:
- Bail hearings
- Crown disclosure review
- Court appearances
- Trial preparation and representation
- Negotiations with the Crown
- Sentencing hearings
- Appeals (in eligible cases)
If your case requires additional time beyond what’s initially authorized, we can apply to Legal Aid Ontario for additional hours on your behalf.
Have Questions About Legal Aid?
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for Legal Aid Ontario or need assistance with the application process, contact Legal Aid Ontario directly using the contact information provided above. They can help determine your eligibility and guide you through the application.
Once you have received your Legal Aid certificate and wish to retain Grayson Law Firm, contact our office to begin your representation.
Note: Legal Aid certificates are issued based on financial eligibility and the seriousness of the charges. Not all criminal matters qualify for Legal Aid coverage. If you don’t qualify for Legal Aid, we also offer private retainer options and can discuss flexible payment arrangements.
Important Legal Aid Ontario Resources
- Legal Aid Ontario Website: www.legalaid.on.ca
- LAO Client Portal: client.legalaidonline.on.ca
- LAO Phone: 416-979-1446 (Toronto) / 1-800-668-8258 (toll-free)
The information on this page is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice.
Every criminal case is unique. Contact Grayson Law to discuss your specific situation and legal options.