Family Justice Resources
British Columbia
British Columbia's family law is governed primarily by the Family Law Act (provincial) and the Divorce Act (federal). BC has a strong network of Family Justice Centres and free legal resources.
Courts
BC has two courts that handle family law: the BC Supreme Court (for divorce and property division) and the BC Provincial Court (for parenting arrangements, support, and protection orders).
Legal Aid
Legal Aid BC provides free legal services to low-income British Columbians facing family law matters, including duty counsel at courthouses.
Family Justice Services
BC's Family Justice Centres offer free services including mediation, parenting coordination, and information to help families resolve disputes.
Child Protection
BC's Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) is responsible for child protection. The Child, Family and Community Service Act governs child welfare in BC.
Support Enforcement
The BC Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP) enforces child and spousal support orders. Registration is free for recipients.
Family Violence
BC has strong protections for victims of family violence, including Protection Orders and a network of transition houses and safe homes.
Mediation
BC has a robust network of family mediators and offers subsidized mediation through Family Justice Centres.
Self-Representation
BC has extensive resources for self-represented litigants, including the Justice Education Society and the BC Supreme Court Self-Help Centre.
Forms & Guides
Official court forms and plain-language guides for family law matters in British Columbia.
Need immediate help?
Crisis services are available 24/7 across Canada