| This paper argues for increased access to civil justice in Ontario for citizens who cannot privately afford it ("needy citizens," defined as those unable to engage in meaningful civil legal action due to financial inability). Access to justice is defined as access to trained legal representation as well as access to knowledge about Ontario civil law. The paper first articulates the theoretical underpinnings necessitating access to justice for all citizens. The paper then explores 5 common areas of Ontarian civil law (tort, residential, family, small business, and standard contract law) regarding access to civil justice within these regimes, and discusses 3 potential ways to remedy Ontario's civil access to justice gap. These reforms are increasing government funding, an increase in activity by the legal profession of Ontario, and finally limited deregulation of Ontario's law licensing process. The first two reforms are rejected, while the third is recommended. |
