BC NDP MLA Debra Toporowski says more families are getting access to free, faster support for family law matters in the Cowichan Valley
DUNCAN – New Democrat MLA Debra Toporowski says that families in the Cowichan Valley can now access faster, more affordable help with family law matters through the Early Resolution Process (ERP). This means more families can resolve legal issues out of court with less stress, which also frees up local court resources for other matters.
“Helping people avoid going to court and resolving issues like divorce or separation earlier makes already difficult processes easier for families and their communities” says Debra Toporowski, MLA for Cowichan Valley. “This process helps reduce the stress and strain that comes from challenging times and saves time and resources for everyone involved.”
The ERP is a free service that helps families to resolve challenges 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 that are in the best interests of children.
This program has already been successful in other communities in BC, and is now being expanded to 35 more Provincial Family Court locations, including in the Cowichan Valley.
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.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026AG0022-000469