The Court Worker is a caseworker who provides assistance, advocacy and guidance to individuals involved in the criminal justice system. The role focuses on helping participants navigate court processes, access community supports and address any barriers that may contribute to further criminal involvement.

The worker attends court with individuals who are in need of support, helps to remind people of their court dates and assists with release plans. When needed, the court support worker will refer individuals to other agencies for supports and work closely with those agencies in order to monitor individuals’ progress.

They work collaboratively with lawyers, probation officers, court personnel, defense, crown prosecutors and correctional centres to assist people in custody and facing charges. This includes working on bail plans and meeting with clients with their probation officers to best understand the supports someone is needing, as well as arranging transportation to clients’ home communities upon release. The caseworker promotes rehabilitation, reintegration, social inclusion and crime prevention through client-centered support.

Referrals to this program come from courthouses and/or JHSS My Place and AMP/EJS programs.