Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (PLIAN) invites you to consider joining their Lawyer Referral Service.

This service is in higher demand than ever. PLIAN’s Legal Information Line and Lawyer Referral Service has seen a 14% increase in calls compared to 2024-2025 and a 22% increase from 2023-2024. Last year, our team handled over 5,000 inquiries from across the province for the first time. We are particularly in need of lawyers willing to accept referrals in the areas of family law; wills, estates, and guardianship; and civil litigation (including small claims).

Participating in our Lawyer Referral Service is a tangible way you can help improve access to justice in our province. While not strictly a pro bono service, it provides a means for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to access summary legal advice at a reduced cost. This can also be an opportunity for you to obtain new clients, as many of our participating lawyers report that referrals from PLIAN regularly lead to clients retaining them.

By registering with the Lawyer Referral Service, you agree to provide an initial 30-minute consultation to individuals referred by PLIAN at a flat rate of $40 (tax included). There is no expectation of providing any services beyond summary legal advice during the consultation, such as the completion of legal documents or representation in court. There is no obligation for the lawyer to continue working with the individual beyond the initial 30-minute consultation, nor for the individual to retain the lawyer.

If you are interested in joining the Lawyer Referral Service, please complete the electronic registration form and email it to info@publiclegalinfo.com at your convenience. We always aim to work closely with lawyers to make sure their participation in this service is as convenient as possible. This may include limiting the number of referrals you receive to a certain number per week and restricting the geographic areas from which you receive referrals. We are also available to answer questions or address any concerns you may have about this program or about clients we have referred to you.

If you have questions about the Lawyer Referral Service or any of the work carried out by PLIAN, please contact me by email at director@publiclegalinfo.com or by phone at 709-722-4745.

Thank you for your consideration and support of PLIAN’s work and our efforts to increase access to justice for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Posted: 21 April 2026