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Last verified: June 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca← Back to IRPA ExplorerLast verified: June 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca
PART 4: Immigration and Refugee BoardProvisions that Apply to All Divisions
§167

Right to counsel

Right to counsel

🍁 In Simple Terms

You can be represented by a lawyer or other counsel before any division of the Board, but at your own expense: there is no state-paid lawyer here. If you are under 18, or the division decides you cannot appreciate what is happening, it has to appoint a designated representative to act for you.

Affects: Refugee claimants and protected persons
Legal Text: IRPA Section 167

(1)A person who is the subject of proceedings before any Division of the Board and the Minister may, at their own expense, be represented by legal or other counsel.

Representation

(2)If a person who is the subject of proceedings is under 18 years of age or unable, in the opinion of the applicable Division, to appreciate the nature of the proceedings, the Division shall designate a person to represent the person.

Amendment History (3)
2001, c. 27, s. 167
2010, c. 8, s. 23
2012, c. 17, s. 63
In Practice
Official Source: Justice Canada: IRPA s. 167 (authoritative, may differ from this display)
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