Following appropriate investigation of the facts of each case by the Benefits and Economic Services Division, the Table Officers Committee of the Provincial Executive is authorized to grant or deny legal aid following a recommendation from the investigating staff officer. In general, the Association may grant permission for legal assistance to teachers who are involved in arbitration cases, unemployment insurance appeals to the Umpire, and other problems arising from situations contingent on the individual's position as a teacher . Legal services or legal assistance provided in accordance with this policy shall mean the legal services of the law firm retained by the Association. Any member who has been denied free legal service does have the right, under policy, to request that the decision be reviewed by the Table Officers Committee of the Provincial Executive. Such appeal must be made within 60 days of receiving notification that legal services have been denied, and is to be addressed to the NLTA Executive Director.
Any legal costs incurred by a member in bringing an appeal are the responsibility of that member.
Table Officers will have the final decision with regard to the provision of legal services under the NLTA policy. Any member who wishes to have a copy of the complete policy should contact the Benefits and Economic Services Division. Any member who seeks legal advice or assistance from the Association, or who is being advised and counselled by a member of the Benefits and Economic Services staff in relation to a legal matter, shall be provided with a written copy of the complete text of the Legal Aid Policy.