The Saskatchewan government has introduced legislation aimed at strengthening protection for residents seeking legal services.

In a news release, the province says the proposed amendments would close a regulatory gap involving non-lawyers, known as agents, who regularly represent clients before courts and tribunals.

Under the changes, those providing legal services on an ongoing basis would be required to comply with licensing and regulatory requirements established under provincial law.

Justice Minister Tim McLeod says the legislation will improve oversight and accountability for those offering legal services to the public.

The amendments would also give the Law Society of Saskatchewan new authority to regulate agents and establish a separate process to address health or capacity issues affecting legal professionals, outside of the disciplinary system.

The government says the changes are intended to strengthen consumer protection while maintaining high standards of ethics and competence across the legal profession.