Legal Aid Options for Evicted Tenants in New Brunswick

If you are a tenant in New Brunswick who has recently faced eviction or is at risk of eviction, knowing your legal aid options can make a significant difference. Navigating the aftermath of eviction can be overwhelming, but a variety of provincial support and legal services exist to help you understand your rights, challenge unfair evictions, and access practical assistance. This guide highlights key resources, official forms, and steps to take if you need legal help after being evicted in New Brunswick.

Understanding Tenant Rights After Eviction in New Brunswick

Eviction does not end your rights as a tenant. Under the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick, tenants maintain certain legal protections after an eviction. These rights include receiving proper notice, access to the rental tribunal for dispute resolution, and the ability to appeal certain eviction decisions.^[1] For a comprehensive overview, you can refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Who Handles Rental Disputes?

In New Brunswick, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal is the official body responsible for handling rental disputes, including those involving eviction, deposits, and landlord-tenant disagreements.^[2]

Available Legal Aid Services for Tenants

Multiple organizations and government-funded services provide free or low-cost legal assistance to tenants in New Brunswick:

• New Brunswick Legal Aid Services Commission: Offers legal help for tenants facing eviction, especially if you meet low-income requirements. Visit Legal Aid NB
• Residential Tenancies Tribunal: Provides information, dispute resolution, and access to official forms. Visit the Tribunal
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB): Offers plain-language guides and support for tenants. Learn more at PLEIS-NB

Legal aid resources can help tenants challenge an eviction, negotiate with landlords, or understand options for emergency housing.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal provides several important forms for tenants:

• Notice of Application for Review (Form RTB-13): Use this form to appeal a decision made by the Tribunal. For example, if you believe an eviction order was unjust or the correct process was not followed, you must file this application within 7 days of the original decision.
  • Download the Notice of Application for Review (RTB-13)
• Application for Assistance: For tenants needing emergency housing or government support after eviction, Service New Brunswick can direct you to the proper assistance form for emergency shelter or social assistance.
  • Apply for Social Assistance - Service New Brunswick

Always follow the official instructions with each form. It is crucial to submit appeals and applications within the prescribed deadlines.

How to Apply for Legal Aid or Appeal an Eviction

• Determine the reason for your eviction and gather all paperwork from your landlord or the Tribunal.
• Contact Legal Aid NB for eligibility screening and legal consultation if needed.
• If you received an eviction order, complete the Notice of Application for Review (Form RTB-13) and submit to the Tribunal within 7 days.
• Keep records of all communications and copies of all forms submitted.

If you have lost your apartment, also consider government or community emergency assistance programs for temporary shelter.

What to Do After an Eviction in New Brunswick

If you've been evicted, follow these practical steps:

• Contact Legal Aid or tenancy advocacy organizations as soon as possible.
• Seek out temporary housing options through local social services or nonprofit shelters.
• Check if your security or damage deposit is owed and file a claim if necessary. You may find guidance in How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
• Review your rights and consult provincial resources for further support.

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FAQ: Legal Aid and Post-Eviction Support in New Brunswick

1. What is the deadline for appealing an eviction order in New Brunswick?
   Tenants must file their Notice of Application for Review (Form RTB-13) within 7 calendar days of receiving the eviction decision from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
2. Can I get free legal help if I can't afford a lawyer?
   Yes. The New Brunswick Legal Aid Services Commission offers free or low-cost legal help for eligible low-income tenants facing eviction or related issues.
3. Where do I submit an eviction appeal form?
   Submit your completed RTB-13 form to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal office in person, by mail, or electronically as indicated on the form instructions.
4. What if I need emergency housing after eviction?
   You can apply for social assistance or emergency shelter through Service New Brunswick and local community organizations, which can help connect you to available resources.
5. Where can I learn more about my tenant rights in New Brunswick?
   Check out the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick page for a thorough overview.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Evicted Tenants

• Act quickly if you wish to challenge an eviction by submitting the correct form within deadlines.
• Legal aid and tenancy advocacy organizations in New Brunswick are available to help tenants at little or no cost.
• Review your rights and support options after eviction, including resources for recovering your deposit and finding new housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick) – Dispute resolution, forms, and general information
• New Brunswick Legal Aid Services Commission – Legal representation and advice
• PLEIS-NB – Public Legal Education
• New Brunswick Social Assistance – Apply for emergency housing and support
• For a complete overview of tenant and landlord rights in the province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick, Government of New Brunswick
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Service New Brunswick
3. New Brunswick Legal Aid Services Commission
4. Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB)

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