Can I Get a Free Duty Counsel Lawyer at Family Court in BC?
This answer covers the law of British Columbia.
Duty counsel may be able to help, but whether one is available to you depends on your courthouse, the day of your hearing and your situation, so check before your court date. Hours and locations vary by community and can change, so confirm them with the court registry rather than assuming.
Family Justice Centres offer free services to parents and other family members dealing with separation or divorce, including help with parenting arrangements, guardianship, child and spousal support, and contact with a child. You can call 1-844-747-3963, Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. They also give a needs assessment, legal information with referrals for advice, and information on Provincial Court processes. Lawyer advice at a centre depends on your situation, and staff otherwise refer you elsewhere.
Justice Access Centres also offer free family justice services. In some regions, Early Resolution Registries require specific steps before a Provincial Court family case proceeds. If you want a lawyer for only part of your case, unbundling means a lawyer handles part of the matter and you and the lawyer decide who does which tasks.
Key takeaways
- Duty counsel availability depends on your courthouse, the day and your situation, so confirm it before your hearing.
- Family Justice Centres offer free services on parenting arrangements, guardianship, child and spousal support and contact with a child.
- You can reach a Family Justice Centre Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, at 1-844-747-3963.
- If you want a lawyer for only part of your case, unbundling lets you and the lawyer decide which tasks each will do.