What is the Family LawLINE in British Columbia and who can call it?
This answer covers the law of British Columbia.
The Family LawLINE is a family law help service whose details are best confirmed directly with the service. Hours, eligibility and how much time you get can change, so confirm the current details with the service before you call. How far it can help depends on your situation, so it is worth confirming with a lawyer.
Family Justice Centres are another free starting point for parents and other family members dealing with separation or divorce, including parenting arrangements, guardianship and child and spousal support. You can reach them Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, at 1-844-747-3963. Lawyer advice there depends on your situation, and staff otherwise refer you elsewhere.
If family violence is involved, Family Law Centres delivered by Legal Aid BC offer free legal help to survivors who cannot afford a lawyer, and you must be experiencing family violence and have at least one additional eligible legal issue. Survivors who have fled an abusive partner within the past six months are prioritized. If one call is not enough, a lawyer may take on only part of your matter, which is called unbundling.
Key takeaways
- The Family LawLINE is a family law help service, and how it fits your situation is worth confirming with the service or a lawyer.
- Hours, eligibility and call length can change, so confirm them with the service before you call.
- Family Justice Centres are a free starting point, reachable Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, at 1-844-747-3963.
- Family Law Centres offer free help to family violence survivors who cannot afford a lawyer and have at least one additional eligible legal issue.