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What is the role of a trusted intermediary?

Trusted intermediaries have a deep understanding of their clients’ multidimensional and intersecting needs as well as the unique circumstances, socially and otherwise, their clients navigate. As their name implies, a trusted intermediary has earned the trust of their clients through effective relationship building and long-term engagement. This gives them a unique role and puts them in a strategic position to act as a bridge to accessing legal information, services and resources.

Trusted intermediaries are well positioned to help clients not only identify their current legal problems but also detect potential legal problems. Early detection can:

  • Help clients receive the correct legal information and timely access to legal services
  • Help prevent problems from compounding into more serious legal problems and/or causing additional legal problems

For example, if a client who has been receiving Ontario Works tells you that they have been evicted from their apartment, you can help them avoid compounding problems by flagging potential issues with child custody/access or their continued receipt of income support.