The Legion Puts Client Confidentiality First When Representing Veterans

The Royal Canadian Legion provides free, professional counselling and representation services for still-serving Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans, RCMP members and their families regarding disability claims or related issues with Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) and the Veterans Review and Appeal Board (VRAB). Professional Command Service Officers are mandated by legislation to provide representation at all levels of the disability claim process under the Pension Act or the Veterans Well-being Act.

In order to do this important work on behalf of Veterans and their families, the Legion requires access to confidential client information. VAC has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Legion to maintain client confidentiality and ensure appropriate use of client information.

Access to client information is controlled and monitored by VAC and is in accordance with the Access to Information Act and Privacy Act. As defined in the MOU, VAC will grant the Legion Command Service Officers access to Veterans Affair’s client information only on signed consent from the client authorizing access. At any time, the client may limit or cancel the Legion’s access to their file by advising any VAC office.

The privacy and confidentiality of Veterans and their families are of utmost importance to the Legion. Our Command Service Officers are security cleared through VAC and adhere to the same safeguards and level of care as is provided by VAC departmental personnel.

Although Legion Command Service Officers cannot provide solicitor-client privilege, as that applies solely to confidential communications between client and lawyer, Command Service Officers offer a comparable level of confidentiality. With our extensive service officer training and VAC’s stringent security clearance process, our clients’ privacy is assured.

In any given year, the Legion helps an average of 3,200 Veterans with their disability claims. If you or a Veteran you know needs help, please contact the Legion. All services are free of charge, and you do not need to be a Legion member to access our services.

We are here to help! Call 1-877-534-4666 or email veteransservices@legion.ca