Sexual assault victims get free legal help under new Quebec program

Victims of sexual assault in Quebec will have access to free legal assistance under a new program announced Monday.

The province will put $2.6 million toward the 15-month pilot project, to be run by the non-profitJuripop.

Quebec Justice Minister Sonia LeBel made the joint announcement with Liberal MNA Hlne David, Vronique Hivon of the PartiQubcoisand Christine Labrie of Qubec Solidaire.

"This type of service was really identified by the victims from the get-go. This is a need that we knew about that was very clearly identified, but this is a first step in this process," LeBel said at a news conference.

The pilot projectwill begin in January and run until the end of March2021.

Sophie Gagnon, a lawyer and the head of Juripop, said the services will be "victim-centred."

"We're really identifying what us as lawyers cando to answer those needs, and then we'll be pairing the victim with the lawyer who is best suited to answer these needs," she said.

The money comes from a special $50-million fund announced in the last budget to help protect people in vulnerable situations.

Earlier this year, Lebel met with David, Hivon and Labrieto come up with ways toprovide better services and support to victims of sexual assault.

One idea being floated was aspecial tribunal to make it easier for those trying to navigate the justice system after reporting a case of sexual assault.

They have since set up an expert committee to help victims of sexual assault and conjugal violence.