BC NDP MLA Randene Neill says more families getting access to free, faster support for family law matters on the Sunshine Coast
SECHELT – New Democrat MLA Randene Neill says that families in the Sunshine Coast can now access faster, more affordable family law solutions through the expansion of the Early Resolution Process (ERP) at the Sechelt Provincial Court. This means more families can resolve their matters out of court, freeing up court resources for other matters and improving court efficiency.
“For families across the Sunshine Coast, the expansion of the Early Resolution Process brings much-needed support closer to home. By offering free, out-of-court solutions, we’re helping people resolve disputes faster while easing pressure on our court system and improving access to justice.”
The ERP is a free service that applies to family law matters, such as parenting arrangements, contact, child support and spousal support, and companion animals. It is designed to reduce conflict, resolve disputes out of court, and develop plans in the best interest of children.
Services provided through the ERP include screening for family violence, identification of legal and non-legal needs, referrals to community organizations, assistance resolving disputes out-of-court through consensual dispute resolution, and support preparing for next steps, including court processes.
This expansion is part of government’s work to ensure timely access to justice for more people in the province.
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Link to Provincial news release: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025AG0065-001087