East Kootenay court registries offering free family law support starting May

The B.C. government is looking to help families settle their disputes out of court by expanding its early resolution program across the province, including in the Kootenays.

Provincial Court registries that specifically handle family law matters in Cranbrook, Fernie and Invermere are among 35 locations selected for the new program expansion.

“Separations and divorces are stressful enough situations without adding costly, time-consuming court processes to the mix,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “Families navigating these difficult times need all the support they can get, which is why we introduced the early resolution process.”

The service includes parenting arrangements, spousal support and pets, as well as screening for family violence and referrals to victim services if needed.

The province says it has led to 57 per cent of families resolving their issues out of court, a 61 per cent drop in new family court cases, and 72 per cent of clients reporting that their concerns were addressed.

Registries in Golden and Revelstoke have also been selected for the expansion.

Access is set to begin Friday, May 1.