Why Governments Should Involve Youth in Funding Decisions for Legal Resources

Young people are often left out of important conversations, especially when it comes to decisions about how government money is spent. But if we want to make noticeable progress in areas like youth justice education and access to legal resources, young people need to be part of those discussions. To understand the importance of this input, it helps to first look at who funds legal services in British Columbia and how the money flows.

When we talk about the funder for legal services in British Columbia, we are primarily referring to the Provincial Government of British Columbia. The main body responsible for distributing government funds for legal aid is Legal Aid BC (LABC), which is the non-profit organization that provides legal assistance to people with low incomes. The BC government funds LABC, and LABC, in turn, contracts with private bar lawyers and operates staff lawyers in various regional offices. LABC also works closely with various community-based organizations and legal clinics across the province to ensure services reach different communities. These partners are crucial for delivering culturally appropriate and specialized services, including those focused on youth.

While funding has increased in recent years, the system still faces significant pressures. The BC Ministry of Attorney General is the key ministry overseeing this funding. Their goal is to ensure a modern and sustainable legal aid system, but the demand for services, especially in areas like poverty law, family law, and youth criminal justice, often outpaces the available resources.

Because the Provincial Government and its partner, LABC, are the primary investors in legal services, it is critical that they listen to the end users. Involving youth in these funding and decision-making processes doesn’t just benefit the youth directly - it has a positive impact on society as a whole. Here’s why:

1. Recognizing Young People as Key Voices

Young people deal with unique legal challenges, from school rules and workplace restrictions to the juvenile justice system. They engage with laws in ways that are different from adults, yet their input is rarely considered when creating legal resources. By recognizing young people as essential voices in the justice system, governments can better address their concerns and help them navigate complicated legal matters. Furthermore, by including youth organizations in the decision-making process, the government can harness their specialized knowledge about the intersecting challenges youth face and efficiently target resources where they are most needed and to deliver culturally specific support.

2. Building Trust and Breaking Down Barriers

For many young people, accessing legal resources can be intimidating. They often don’t feel confident reaching out for help, worried that they won’t be understood or taken seriously. Involving them in the decision-making process can build trust, making legal support feel more approachable and less daunting. When young people see their voices valued, they are more likely to use the resources available and view the legal system as an ally instead of an obstacle. Youth organizations already hold this trust and can act as bridges. However, for youth, particularly those who are marginalized or facing unstable living conditions, a government office or a law firm can feel especially intimidating. Youth organizations, however, are often seen as safe and familiar spaces. They act as a trusted referral point, encouraging young people to seek help they might otherwise avoid.

3. Developing Relevant and Effective Resources

Young people know best what they need and how they want to access information - often preferring digital tools like apps and online platforms. Without their input, there’s a risk of investing in outdated or ineffective methods that don’t resonate with today’s youth. By including young voices in these decisions, governments can ensure that resources are not only up-to-date but also truly useful for the people who rely on them. Specifically, youth organizations can assist with how legal resources should be designed and what language resonates with youth. By involving them in funding decisions, the government ensures that investments are directed toward user-tested, youth-informed solutions that maximize utility and impact.

4. Saving Money in the Long Run

Investing in youth-centred legal resources today can prevent more significant costs down the road. When young people understand their rights and responsibilities, they are less likely to find themselves in situations that lead to legal problems. By offering education and support early on, governments can reduce the need for expensive legal interventions later, making these investments both ethically sound and economically wise. Partnering with youth organizations is cost-effective as they possess specialized knowledge and existing community networks, reducing the need for the government to build new, separate outreach systems from scratch.