BC NDP MLAs George Anderson and Sheila Malcolmson say more families getting access to free, faster support for family law matters in Nanaimo
NANAIMO – New Democrat MLAs George Anderson and Sheila Malcolmson say that families in Nanaimo 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.
“Expanding this option to Nanaimo will help people resolve challenging family matters sooner, while benefitting from new supports and education in this process,” said George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo-Lantzville. “Making this option available helps not only families but also frees up more time and energy in our justice system, allowing cases that need to involve the court to be addressed sooner.”
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.
“Nanaimo families will get early help to resolve parenting and support issues starting May 1,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo-Gabriola Island. “Children and parents can avoid the stress of litigation and resolve issues out of court with our new early resolution supports.”
This program has already been successful in other communities in BC, and is now being expanded to 35 more Provincial Family Court locations, including Nanaimo.
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/33677