In the complex realm of family law, understanding the intricacies of the legal system can be daunting. Incorrect information or a lack of knowledge about how the law applies to your unique situation can potentially hinder the resolution of your family law case and lead to unnecessary financial costs. Therefore, it is crucial to seek legal advice from a qualified lawyer to navigate the legal landscape effectively. In this article, we will explore various avenues to obtain legal assistance and guidance in your family law matters.
Lawyer Referrals:
One common way to connect with a lawyer is through referrals from friends or family members who have had positive experiences with legal professionals. Alternatively, you can utilize the services offered by the Law Society of Ontario, accessible at www.findlegalhelp.ca. This service will provide you with the name of a lawyer practicing family law in your community, offering a complimentary consultation lasting up to 30 minutes.
Additionally, the referral service operates a crisis line from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, which can be reached toll-free at 1-855-947-5255 or at 416-947-5255 for those in the Greater Toronto area.
Unbundled Legal Services:
If hiring a lawyer for your entire case is not feasible due to financial constraints, you still have options. Unbundled legal services, also known as limited scope services, allow you to seek legal advice or assistance for specific steps within your case. For example, you can enlist a lawyer’s help to prepare legal documents or represent you at essential court hearings. To find lawyers who provide such services in communities across Ontario, visit familylawlss.ca.
Reduced Legal Fees:
Obtaining legal help at a reduced rate is also a possibility. The Advice and Settlement Counsel Project, accessible at http://ascfamily.com, offers the opportunity to hire a family lawyer to aid in reaching a settlement or representing you in specific court appearances.
Depending on your income, you may also find lawyers who offer sliding scale rates through JusticeNet, at www.justicenet.ca.
Legal Aid Ontario and Free Legal Clinics:
For individuals with low income, Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) offers invaluable services. LAO provides legal advice over the telephone and in-person at select court locations. You can make a request for assistance by calling LAO toll-free at 1-800-668-8258.
In Family Court branches handling parenting issues or support cases, LAO’s duty counsel program may also provide assistance. To explore available LAO services in your community, contact your local court office or reach out to LAO’s summary advice telephone service at 1-800-668-8258, or visit www.legalaid.on.ca/services/family-legal-issues/.
Additionally, LAO may offer support to retain a lawyer for representation in your case. Information on how to apply for legal aid can be obtained by calling toll-free at 1-800-668-8258 or visiting www.legalaid.on.ca/services/how-do-i-apply-for-legal-aid/.
If you reside in a community with an Ontario law school, assistance may be available through a Student Legal Service Organization. Contact information for these student clinics can be found at https://www.legalaid.on.ca/student-legal-service-organizations/.
Additionally, law students may provide free assistance in completing legal paperwork through the Pro Bono Canada Family Justice Centre. For more information, visit www.probonostudents.ca/family-justice-centre.
In cases involving domestic violence, support is accessible through Luke’s Place at their Virtual Legal Clinic or the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic. To learn more about Luke’s Place, visit https://lukesplace.ca/for-women/pro-bono-summary-advice-clinic/ or call 905-728-0978 extension 235 or toll-free at 1-866-516-3116 extension 235. For information about the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic, visit www.schliferclinic.com or call 416-323-5149, selecting option 1.
Jane Ja-Eun Huh, Senior Associate Lawyer
Seeking legal advice and assistance is pivotal when dealing with family law matters. By exploring the various avenues available, you can make informed decisions and navigate the legal system more effectively.
Whether you choose to engage a lawyer, access reduced-rate services, or utilize legal aid resources, taking the right steps can help ensure that your family law case progresses smoothly and achieves a fair and just resolution.
*this article was based, in part, on A Guide to Process for Family Cases at the Superior Court of Justice Ontario Superior Court of Justice (October 2023)
