(Note: Many changes have been made to court procedures by reason of COVID-19. Thus, it is recommended that you check the current website of the Court before which you are or may be appearing.)
- All
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National Resources
The Canadian Judicial Council An organization created to maintain and improve the quality of judicial services in Canada’s superior courts. Includes guides to the judicial system and the role of judges.
Federal Court
Federal Court Website The website, updated in April 2019, includes a section entitled “Representing Yourself”, which includes checklists, procedural charts, practice guides and important information such as where to find legal help. The site also includes Notices, links to key statutes and rules, recorded entries, decisions, hearing lists, and information on Registry services and locations.
Deadlines Calculator The Deadlines Calculator helps calculate the due date for service and filing of documents according to the Court Rules and practice directions.
Centre for Access to Justice The Centre for Access to Justice (CAJ) is a public legal information centre for self-represented litigants consisting of a resource centre and a three-station computer laboratory in the Toronto Registry. Other centres will eventually be rolled out across the country.
E-Filing Resources A number of Guides, Videos and FAQs are available to help parties navigate the E-Filing System.
Online Fillable Forms Forms can be completed online and then submitted through the E-Filing System or printed to file in person.
Your Day in Court This resource provides a general overview of what a self-rep needs to know before going to court.
National Self-Represented Litigants Project (NSRLP) The National Self-Represented Litigants Project (NSRLP) is an organization that researches the challenges and hard choices facing the very large numbers of Canadians who now come to court without counsel. NSRLP creates resources for self-represented litigants.
- Resources for Self-Represented Litigants
- National and Provincial Resources The national and provincial resources directory lists organizations, websites, and resources, categorized geographically, that may be helpful for self-represented litigants.
Criminal Code Full document of the Criminal Code available online.
Parenting Plan Tool Justice Canada Family Law Guide to making a parenting plan (Parenting Plan tool), information about family violence and abuse, and family justice resources.
Families Change This national website provides age-appropriate information to guide children, teens, and adults through separation and divorce. Information and resources are provided for each region.
CanLII Database of Canadian case law and legislation in both French and English.
Federal Child Support Guidelines: Step-by-Step The Department of Justice has a guide on understanding the Child Support Guidelines and steps for calculating support.
Child Support Calculator Free online calculator tool for basic child & spousal support costs.
The Canadian Criminal Law Notebook A free resource of Canadian criminal law. Contains articles on Criminal, evidence, search and seizure, procedure and practice, and sentencing.
Pro Bono Students Canada A law student program that provides legal services without charge to organizations and individuals in need in Canada. You may have a law school with a Pro Bono Students Canada program near you where you can ask for assistance.
- Resources Provides a list of legal help resources by region.
- Alberta
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Alberta – Law and Justice Government of Alberta website with family law resources, legislation, forms, and guides.
- Family Law Assistance Family court and mediation, family law kits, and how to respond to Divorce Act or Family Law Act application.
Alberta Court Calendar and Indigenous Court Worker and Resolution Services Programs The Court Calendar and Indigenous Court Worker and Resolution Services Programs booklet contains an overview of the sitting dates for Alberta Courts. It includes a listing of Judges, Justices, Masters and Alberta Court personnel, as well as information on the numerous Court Services Programs available.
Resolution and Court Administration Services RCAS staff work to help find solutions for legal issues, offer programs at no cost or a nominal charge, provide services across Alberta, and provide administrative support to all the courts within the province.
Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA) Is a public legal education organization dedicated to making information about the law available in readable and understandable language for Albertans.
Legal Aid Alberta Assists eligible Albertans facing legal issues.
- Alberta Provincial Court Help for self-represented litigants in Provincial Courts.
- Court of Queen’s Bench Information about the Family Law court system, including the rules of the Court, relevant court forms, practice notes, and resources.
Criminal Law in Alberta A guide developed to provide general legal information on Criminal Law in Alberta.
LawCentral Alberta Is a portal or collection of links to law-related information and educational resources on justice and legal issues of interest to Albertans. Our purpose is to create an educated public who understands their rights and responsibilities under the law, and who knows where to go for legal help and referral.
Alberta Law Libraries Facilitates access to legal information for the Alberta community, including its judiciary, lawyers, citizens, libraries, and government agencies. There are 11 public library locations across the province, one Crown and 4 Judicial libraries. Their website contains subject based research guides, extensive tools to help understand the world of legal information, an Ask A Law Librarian service, various eResources for patrons, and identifies Alberta-centric organizations that provide specific legal resources for the public.
University of Alberta Libraries: Divorce and Separation This guide is a starting point for individuals seeking legal information and self-help materials they can use on their own. It identifies a number of law-related resources and services on the web.
Student Legal Services of Edmonton Law students provide legal information, assistance for certain civil, criminal, and family issues.
- Family Project: (780) 492-8244.
Student Legal Assistance (SLA) – Calgary Is a pro-bono legal clinic that provides legal information and representation to low-income residents
of Calgary and the surrounding area.Grande Prairie Legal Guidance Provides free legal information and advice to low to moderate income people who have a legal issue but do not qualify for legal aid.
Calgary Legal Guidance Offers free and confidential legal advice at evening clinics and outreach clinics to low income Calgarians who do not qualify for legal aid.
Edmonton Community Legal Centre (ECLC) Provides free legal information and advice to low to moderate income people in the Edmonton area. ECLC assists with legal issues related to family, landlord and tenant, employment, human rights, debt, small claims, income support, and immigration matters. Volunteer lawyers provide free legal advice at evening clinics and provide legal information at presentations across the city. Pro bono services are supplemented by the work of paid staff lawyers who will further assist clients in some situations. ECLC also manages a legal clinic in Grande Prairie.
ECLC partners with the Association des juristes d’expression française de l’Alberta (AJEFA) to offer francophone services. Bilingual lawyers who are members of AJEFA meet with francophone clients at ECLC’s clinics. Volunteer bilingual lawyers also present ECLC’s legal information workshops to francophone communities.
Lethbridge Legal Guidance Provides free legal assistance, information and advocacy to individuals experiencing financial difficulties who need legal services and representation, and who do not qualify for legal aid. Volunteer lawyers at evening clinics provide free legal assistance, information, and advocacy in matters relating to family law, civil law, employment law, immigration law, personal injury law, and criminal law.
Medicine Hat Legal Help Centre Provides free legal information and advice to low to moderate income people who have a legal issue but do not qualify for legal aid.
Central Alberta Community Legal Clinic Offers free legal services to people who financially qualify and who do not qualify for legal aid. The Clinic is headquartered in Red Deer and partners with other agencies in Ponoka, Medicine Hat, Fort McMurray, and Lloydminster to provide widespread legal support to smaller communities in Alberta. Volunteer lawyers give legal advice at evening clinics on matters related to family law, civil law, criminal law, wills, and other legal issues. Clients can chat with a lawyer for 30 minutes, following which they may receive further support from a paid staff lawyer.
BearPaw Education Produces and distributes culturally relevant legal education resources for Indigenous people in Alberta. We are a department of Native Counselling Services of Alberta.
Pro Bono Law Alberta (PBLA) Volunteer lawyers, through the clinics, also present legal education workshops to the public to inform individuals of their rights, hopefully before a legal issue arises. PBLA promotes access to justice by fostering a pro bono culture in the legal profession. PBLA creates volunteer opportunities for lawyers and works with law firms to develop pro bono policies and projects. In Calgary and Edmonton, PBLA administers the Civil Claims Duty Counsel project and the Queen’s Bench Court Assistance Program. Volunteer lawyers staff these programs and support litigants dealing with civil matters at the courthouses in each city.
Alberta Court of Appeal Related Information
Court of Appeal locations and contact information
How to start an appeal, including required documents, filing deadlines and fees
Checklists for ensuring your appeal request documents are completed correctly before filing
Detailed information on all required documents and processes of the Court of Appeal
Filing your documents at the court registry
Ordering court transcripts and preparing your appeal record
Contact a Case Management Officer with questions about court rules and processes
How to prepare an application before the Case Management Officer
Court etiquette for in-person hearings
How to prepare for an electronic hearing
a. Etiquette and best practices
- British Columbia
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British Columbia
The Courts of British Columbia Information and guides on specific court processes. Links to court rules, practice directions, administrative notices and forms:
- Supreme Court Information and guides on specific court processes for self-represented litigants.
British Columbia Government BC government website includes information regarding BC’s justice system, Courthouse services, and legal help resources, including BC’s Justice Access Centres.
Legal Information and Services:
Access Pro Bono Coordinates lawyers providing pro bono (free) legal services. It operates:
- Lawyer Referral Service Connects individuals to lawyers for a 30-minute consultation free of charge and the possibility of retaining the lawyer for representation or other services.
Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of BC and Mediate BC Provide information on arbitration and mediation and have services to help in finding an arbitrator or mediator.
Atira Women’s Society Runs a Legal Advocacy Program for low-income women (inclusive of transwomen) in the Downtown Eastside to obtain free legal advocacy in a safe and confidential, women’s only space.
Clicklaw Provides legal information, education and help with a British Columbia focus. It has information on specific topics and how to perform legal research.
- JP Boyd on Family Law Written in plain language, with rollover definitions for legal words and phrases, JP Boyd on Family Law provides practical, in-depth coverage of family law and divorce law in British Columbia.
Community Legal Services Society Provides free legal assistance to people facing issues concerning housing rights, workers rights, human rights, and mental health rights. It produces self-help guides, including:
- Judicial Review Self Help Guide on how to bring a petition for judicial review to the British Columbia Supreme Court from the Residential Tenancy Branch, the Human Rights Tribunal, the Employment and Assistance Appeal Tribunal, the Employment Standards Tribunal, and the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Tribunal.
Courthouse Libraries BC Website that provides links to a number of digital resources that can help with legal research and information on the services available at the courthouse libraries throughout the province.
Dial-a-Law Organization that offers legal information and free resources. A starting point for information on the law in British Columbia.
Disability Alliance BC Employs advocates who can help apply for and appeal the denial of provincial and federal disability benefits.
Elizabeth Fry Society Advocate Program Is a free legal clinic providing support to individuals in need of assistance with situations such as rental disputes, evictions, debt collection, bankruptcy, mental health and employment standards, and accessing income programs.
Employers’ Advisers Office Provides free help and assistance to employers dealing with WorkSafeBC, including assistance in relation to registering a business, dealing with injury claims, health and safety issues, and appealing a decision.
Family Law LSS A comprehensive website covering all areas of Family Law including do it yourself guides, resources, and factsheets.
Indigenous Legal Clinic Provides free legal services to the Indigenous community and education to Allard School of Law students.
Justice Education Society A wide array of resources aimed at teaching the public about legal issues, including a live chat feature from 11 am – 2 pm PST providing members of the public with help on legal issues. It produces:
Law Students’ Legal Advice Program Is a non-profit run by law students at the Peter Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia. It provides free legal advice and representation to clients who would otherwise be unable to afford legal assistance at clinics located throughout the Lower Mainland and produces the LSLAP Manual.
Legal Services Society (Legal Aid BC) Provides free legal representation in cases involving serious family issues, child protection matters, criminal law issues, and some mental health and prison law issues. It produces:
- MyLawBC Provides information concerning separation and divorce, abuse and family violence, missed mortgage payments, and wills and personal planning through do-it-yourself guides, resources, and factsheets.
Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of BC Provides Indigenous accused persons with information about the criminal justice system and court procedures, as well as referrals, where appropriate and available, to legal and social resources.
People’s Law School Offers information concerning an array of common legal problems relating to consumer issues, home and neighbours, money and debt, wills and estates, employment, transport, health, planning, business, and dispute resolution. Among its resources is:
- Dial-a-Law A repository for plain language written and audio information.
PovNet Find an Advocate Is an online anti-poverty community that connects poverty and family law advocates and pro bono lawyers from across British Columbia on issues concerning housing, income, workers’ rights, Indigenous peoples, immigration, and more.
Rise Women’s Legal Clinic Is a community legal centre providing accessible legal services that are responsive to the unique needs of self-identifying women. Most of the services offered at Rise are provided by upper-year law students, under the close supervision of Rise’s staff lawyers.
Society for Children and Youth of BC Is dedicated to improving the well-being of children and youth in British Columbia through various resources and services including the Child and Youth Legal Centre, which advocates on behalf of vulnerable children and youth in BC.
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre Promotes the legal protection of residential tenants across British Columbia by providing information, education, support and research on residential tenancy matters. For eligible clients, the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre offers direct advocacy by negotiating resolutions with problem landlords or providing representation at Residential Tenancy Branch dispute resolution hearings.
The Law Centre Run by the University of Victoria, focuses on assisting people in the Capital Regional District and provides legal education programs to the public. Staff lawyers are supported by law students to provide representation, information and advice on a range of legal issues.
VictimLinkBC A toll-free, confidential, multilingual telephone service available across B.C. and the Yukon 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-563-0808. It provides information and referral services to all victims of crime and immediate crisis support to victims of family and sexual violence, including victims of human trafficking exploited for labour or sexual services.
Workers’ Advisers Office Provides free advice and assistance to workers and their dependants on disagreements they may have with WorkSafeBC decisions.
- Manitoba
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Manitoba
Community Legal Education Association Resources for self-represented litigants. Resources for family law, criminal law, and civil law. Resources include a province-wide telephone legal information service (Law Phone-In & Lawyer Referral Program) with a toll-free number, print resources and online resources (unrepresented litigants section on website).
Manitoba Justice – Family Law Government website with general information about Family Law, including child support and information for grandparents.
- Family Justice Resource Centre The Family Justice Resource Centre is a service provided by Manitoba Justice. Staff can direct you to the services you and your family may need to deal with family law issues.
- Family Law in Manitoba – 2014 Public Information Booklet A booklet with information on Family Law and the legal system in Manitoba.
- Family Conciliation Provides a range of free conflict resolution services to families going through a separation or divorce.
Manitoba Courts Provides Information about the province’s different courts, procedures, rules and forms.
- Manitoba Courts Information for Self Representing Offers general information about the province’s different courts and their procedures, rules, and forms.
- Court of the Queen’s Bench – Family Law Offers information about the Family Division of the Court of the Queen’s Bench.
Legal Help Centre The Family Law Clinic is a service that is geared towards those individuals who are representing themselves in a family law proceeding. The Clinic is staffed by law students under the supervision of a family law lawyer. This clinic provides assistance with the procedural steps involved in family law. Family Law Clinic appointments are only available by referral from our Drop-In Clinic.
Infojustice Manitoba Is a legal information centre whose purpose is to promote access to justice in French by providing legal information services to francophones. Through workshops and one-on-one meetings, the staff of the information centre seeks to educate francophones and to provide tools to those who choose to represent themselves before the courts.
A Woman’s Place A Woman’s Place Domestic Violence Support and Legal Services provides supportive counselling and legal services for women who have exited/are exiting an abusive relationship.
Manitoba Justice – The Criminal Case A step-by-step guide through the criminal justice system in Manitoba.
Legal Aid Manitoba Provides services, representation, and resources for qualified individuals with criminal, family, and immigration issues.
University of Manitoba Community Law Centre Primarily handles summary conviction offences. In addition, it may provide assistance for Highway Traffic Act offences, small claims cases that involve consumer problems and individual disputes with Manitoba Public Insurance. The Centre is staffed by 50-100 second and third year law students who volunteer their time. Although students have primary responsibility for their file, they are supervised by a LAM staff lawyer. Members of the faculty and other Legal Aid staff are available to provide information or advice when matters require special expertise.
- New Brunswick
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New Brunswick
Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick Self-help guides touching on family law, civil law, criminal law, and more. Available in French and English.
- Family Law Guides, resources, and information on Family Law in New Brunswick.
- Family Violence in New Brunswick (PLEIS) A series of pamphlets dealing with family violence. The purpose of these pamphlets is to provide some basic information about family violence in New Brunswick. It does not contain a complete statement of the law in the area and laws change from time to time.
- Civil Law Guides, resources, and information on Civil Law in New Brunswick.
Family Law NB Offers general information and resources about Family Law in New Brunswick.
New Brunswick Courts Information on the New Brunswick court system.
Legal Aid – Family Law Services An overview of the services Legal Aid provides and for what type of family matters.
Legal Aid – Criminal Law Services An overview of the services Legal Aid provides and how to apply.
Law Society of New Brunswick Law Library The Law Society allows the public to access their law library.
- Newfoundland and Labrador
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The Law Courts of Newfoundland and Labrador
Information on court procedures and help for self-represented litigants
- Supreme Court (Superior Court in NL) Hears matters involving serious criminal charges as well as appeals from the Provincial Court. All jury trials are held in Supreme Court, although some criminal cases will be heard before a judge-alone.
- Supreme Court Family Division Specialized and unified family law courts on the Avalon Peninsula and West Coast areas of the Province.
- Supreme Court, General Division Handles family law matters for areas not covered by the unified Family Division.
- Provincial Court (Inferior Court in NL) Court of first instance; handles family law matters relating to support and family violence for areas not covered by the Supreme Court, Family Division. Also handles Traffic, Youth, Small Claims, and other matters.
- Family Violence Intervention Court Specialized criminal court with the goal of preventing and reducing family violence through various programs. The court focusses on victim safety and offender responsibility.
- Small Claims Court For most civil matters where value does not exceed $25,000.00.
- Court of Appeal Highest court in the province. Hears appeals from Supreme Court, Family and General Division; some decisions of the Provincial Court and decisions of certain administrative tribunals.
Court Information & Publications
- Court of Appeal The Court of Appeal website provides information on representing yourself, access to Guidebooks, frequently asked questions and answers, access to the Court of Appeal Legal Assistance Clinic.
- Supreme Court Family Division Information Court website resources providing information on duty counsel, court docket, and general topic information on divorce, separation, children’s matters, property, support enforcement, adoption, ISO, and settlement conferences.
- Family Justice Services (FJS) Webpage under the Family Division Website provides resources for families going through separation and divorce. It also includes a link to the course Living Apart Parenting Together helps parents make decisions which will take into account the best interests of their children.
- Supreme Court Family Division Information Sessions Information about free Family Law Information Sessions which offers assistance to the public who wish to learn about family law proceedings at the Supreme Court, Family Division.
- Supreme Court Resources for Self-Represented Litigants Court website resources including information on finding a lawyer, videos on what to expect when attending family court, and other helpful resources.
- Provincial Court Information Court website resources providing information on family law matters in Provincial Court.
- Provincial court publications
- Court Etiquette and Procedures
- Supreme Court: A Guide to Accessing Proceedings and Records For the Public and Media
Family Justice Services A division of the Supreme Court. FJS offers services that assist families in resolving custody, access and/or child support issues outside of court. FJS offers free services to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador that are involved in family law matters. Some of their services include: parent education sessions on family law and parenting after separation; dispute resolution in cases of parenting and child support; and counselling services.
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador – Justice and the Law General information and guides for self-represented litigants.
Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (PLIAN) An independent non-profit that provides general information, legal education, and lawyer referrals to all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, with the intent of increasing access to justice. Guides for family law services, victim support, bail, legal aid, probation and pardons. Services include:
- List of Community Resources available to help people navigate the court system.
- Family Law Forms Builder An online program that assists self-represented litigants with filling out court forms. Provides guidance on what forms to fill out and how to fill out the forms.
- Legal Information Phone Line and Lawyer Referral Service A service offering referrals to lawyers from across the province registered with the Lawyer Referral Service. These lawyers will offer a 30-minute consultation for a small flat fee.
- Pro Bono Clinics.
- Legal Publication / Information Distribution.
Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador Law Library The Law Society’s Law Library is an important component in the administration and continuing education of the legal profession. Its comprehensive collection of both primary and secondary print and electronic media resources is available for use by both lawyers and members of the public.
Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission Independent organization that provides legal counsel for criminal and family matters either for free or on a subsidized basis.
Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Clinics Independent organization that provides legal counsel for criminal and family matters either for free or on a subsidized basis.
Note: Applications must be physically mailed or dropped off to an area office.
- Supreme Court (Superior Court in NL) Hears matters involving serious criminal charges as well as appeals from the Provincial Court. All jury trials are held in Supreme Court, although some criminal cases will be heard before a judge-alone.
- Northwest Territories
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Northwest Territories
NWT Family Law Guide The Department of Justice publishes a guide to family law in the Northwest Territories called Family Law in the NWT as part of its mission to provide public legal education and information. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you understand these legal processes.
Northwest Territories Government Information about laws and legislation, courts, and government resources.
- Family Law – General Information Government website with information, resources, and programs for Family Law issues.
- Family Law Mediation Program Voluntary, free service to help families agree on issues such as child custody and division of property.
- Legal Aid Information about Legal Aid services and how to apply.
Family Law Mediation Program Voluntary, free service to help families agree on issues such as child custody and division of property.
Northwest Territories Courts Information about the court system in the NWT.
- Wellness Court An alternative to regular criminal court that offers supervised program designed to address the conditions that may contribute to re-offending.
Law Society of the Northwest Territories Legal information and resources for the public.
NWT Law + Victim Services Laws and legislation, the legal system, police, emergency, victim services.
- Nova Scotia
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Nova Scotia
Family Law Nova Scotia Information about the law, processes, and courts of Nova Scotia. It will help you understand your legal issue and navigate the legal system.
See in particular the Going to Court: Self-Represented Parties in Family Law Matters workbook.
The Courts of Nova Scotia Information about the Nova Scotian court system for litigants.
- Self-represented litigants
- Free Legal Clinics The Courts offer free legal clinics in Halifax, Sydney, Truro and Yarmouth for certain types of Supreme Court and Court of Appeal matters
Legal Information Nova Scotia To find easy to understand legal information to help you deal with everyday legal problems. You are also in the right place for referrals to legal help resources in Nova Scotia, including finding a lawyer or mediator.
- Small Claims Court App Frequently Asked Questions, self-help videos and step-by-step instructions for representing yourself on small claims court matters, all in one place. LISNS also has Small Claims Court navigators who provide guidance and support at the locations in Bridgewater and Halifax.
- Online Wills App A simple process to help you gather the information you need to prepare a will in Nova Scotia. It will help you decide what to put in your will.
Legal Aid Nova Scotia Provides legal information, legal advice to all Nova Scotians (no financial qualification), and legal representation for those who meet certain qualifications.
Summary Advice Counsel Is also a service of Legal Aid Nova Scotia.
Dalhousie Legal Aid Service Does community outreach, education, organizing, lobbying and test case litigation to combat injustices affecting persons with low incomes in Nova Scotia. Community groups and community-based agencies with mandates to fight poverty and injustice may apply for legal advice, assistance, and community development and education services. The Service offers advocacy workshops and legal information sessions and works with other groups to lobby the government on social assistance policy and other policies negatively affecting persons with low incomes.
Nova Scotia – Self Represented Litigants This website is designed to offer you resources about how to prepare for court if you are not represented by a lawyer.
Association des juristes d’expression française de la Nouvelle-Écosse (AJEFNE) An organization that aims to improve access to justice for French-speakers. You may speak to one of their legal professionals for free, in person or by phone.
Note: Only available in French
ReachAbility Association Offers form-filling clinics and legal referral services for people representing themselves. These services are temporarily unavailable due to COVID-19.
Halifax Refugee Clinic Provides free legal services for refugees and can include full service for the entire refugee determination procedure or assistance in preparing various applications.
Judges in Canada Videos The Canadian Superior Courts Judges Association (CSCJA) has launched a new educational video, available in English and French, and a related YouTube channel, entitled Judges in Canada. The video teaching tool, aimed at new and young Canadians, as well as the public in general, illustrates what people are entitled to expect from judges in Canadian Courts. The video covers principles fundamental to the justice system, concepts such as Judicial Independence and the Rule of Law.
- Nunavut
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Nunavut
Legal Services Board of Nunavut As the territory’s legal aid plan, LSB is responsible for providing legal services to financially eligible Nunavummiut in the areas of criminal, family and civil law.
- Law Line General information about family law in Nunavut.
- Criminal Law Information about criminal law in Nunavut.
Nunavut Courts Provides information about Nunavut’s Courts, which includes the Nunavut Court of Appeal, Nunavut Court of Justice, Youth Justice Court of Nunavut, Justice of the Peace Court, as well as the Court Services Division of the Government of Nunavut.
- How to Basic information on civil, criminal and family processes.
Government of Nunavut Family Services Information about the Department of Family Services programs and services, including Family Violence, Child Protection, and Adoption.
- Ontairo
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Steps to Justice Step-by-step information about legal problems to help people understand and exercise their legal rights. Includes referrals to services that provide in person help, and links to resources such as relevant court forms and guides. Topics covered include separation and divorce; child protection; partner abuse; and restraining orders. The Law Society of Ontario has also launched an emergency family law referral telephone line to assist with urgent family court matters during the covid-19 pandemic.
Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) Produces clear, accurate and practical legal information to help people understand and exercise their legal rights in a variety of areas of law including family law, the legal system, and family violence.
- Steps in a Family Law Case This is a set of three interactive flowcharts that take people through the family law court process to learn about what happens at each step and what is required.
Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General – Family Law Information about Ontario’s legal system, including finding a lawyer, lawsuits and disputes, family and criminal law, and wills and estates. They also provide Family Law Information Centres in family courts across Ontario.
Ontario Ministry of Attorney General – Applying for probate Information on confirming or securing legal authority to deal with the property and will of a deceased person.
Court Services from the Ministry of the Attorney General Covering a variety of areas including, guides to procedure in civil, divisional and small claims court, and information on court fees, estates and civil case management.
Community Legal Clinics A network of 73 legal clinics funded by Legal Aid Ontario provides legal assistance for low-income people living in Ontario in the areas of employment, housing, and social assistance law.
Legal Aid Ontario Provides legal assistance for low-income people living in Ontario.
- Family Law Services Centres Provide eligible clients a range of legal resources and support for family matters.
- Summary Legal Advice Telephone Services 1-800-668-8258.
- Student Legal Aid Services Societies (SLASS) Operating out of Ontario’s seven law schools, volunteer law students provide legal advice and representation.
Ontario Courts Information for litigants in Superior Court cases and Ontario Court of Justice cases.
Specific resources for Divisional Court, Small Claims Court and preparing for Simplified Procedure Trials.
- Court of Appeal – How to Proceed in the Court of Appeal for Ontario
- Superior Court of Justice – Going to court? Information for people involved in a case such as information about how to find a lawyer or legal information, and information about court proceedings at the Superior Court of Justice.
- Ontario Court of Justice – Guides for self-represented parties.
Family Law Limited Scope Services Project Provides a directory of lawyers in Ontario who are willing to provide “unbundled” legal services so that people do not have to retain a lawyer to help with their entire case.
Pro Bono Ontario Hotline People who need help with a civil law matter can call the Hotline and get up to 30 minutes of free legal advice or assistance. The Hotline does not cover family or criminal law issues.
Ontario Legal Information Centre People who need help with a civil law matter can call the Centre and get up to 30 minutes of free legal advice or assistance (or if in Ottawa, can meet with a lawyer for 30 minutes).
- Prince Edward Island
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Courts of Prince Edward Island Information about the PEI court system, forms and resources.
Representing Yourself in Supreme Court
Prince Edward Island Court of Appeal Procedures and Practices Contains information necessary in preparing for an appeal.
Prince Edward Island – Family Law Centre The Family Law Centre provides child-focused programs and services for families. These family justice programs and services promote and emphasize the best interests of children.
Community Legal Information Provides free legal information through the phone line, website, e-mail, publications, and outreach efforts. They provide lawyer referrals for Islanders who need legal advice and would like to connect with a lawyer.
Legal Aid PEI Provides legal representation and assistance to people living on a low income.
Pro Bono Legal Advice Clinic for Self-Represented Litigants Free summary legal advice is offered to self-represented litigants in the areas of family law and civil law.
PEI Public Law Library The law library at the Sir Louis Henry Davies Law Courts Building contains materials for legal research.
- Quebec
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Courts and Tribunals of Quebec Information about the Quebec court system.
The Court of Québec is a court of first instance with jurisdiction in civil, criminal and penal matters as well as in matters relating to young persons, such as adoption, youth protection and emancipation cases. It also hears administrative matters and appeals, where provided for by law.
- The Superior Court of Quebec has jurisdiction throughout Québec and sits in all judicial districts.
- In civil matters, the Superior Court hears:
- Cases in which the amount at issue is at least $85,000;
- Divorce and support cases;
- Class actions;
- Cases involving the probate of wills and the homologation of mandates given in the event of incapacity;
- Applications for injunctions to stop harmful activities;
- Except in certain cases provided for by law, cases involving the judicial review of decisions made by courts in Québec other than the Court of Appeal, or made by public bodies in Québec.
The Superior Court hears any application that does not come under the exclusive jurisdiction of another court. It may hear criminal cases such as:
- Criminal cases heard automatically before judge and jury, such as those involving murder or treason;
- Other cases in which the accused elects trial by judge and jury;
- Matters of extraordinary recourse, for example when a person is unlawfully detained in custody, or when the legality of a search warrant is challenged.
Like the Court of Appeal, the Superior Court hears some appeals from decisions:
- Rendered under the Criminal Code by a judge in the Youth Division or the Criminal and Penal Division of the Court of Québec, by a municipal court judge or by a justice of the peace;
- Concerning summary offences such as
- Theft,
- Prostitution,
- Driving while impaired;
- Made under other federal and provincial statutes.
Superior Court of Québec Information about court process, rules, forms and other resources.
The Court of Appeal of Quebec is the general appeal court for Québec and as such is the province’s highest court.
In civil matters, the Court of Appeal hears:
- Appeals from judgments of the Superior Court or the Court of Québec that terminate a proceeding, where the value of the subject matter of the dispute in appeal is $60,000 or more;
- Appeals from certain other judgments, including those that pertain to personal integrity, status or capacity;
- Appeals concerning the special rights of the State or contempt of court;
- Appeals from all other judgments of the Superior Court or the Court of Québec, with leave from a judge of the Court of Appeal.
In criminal and penal matters, the Court of Appeal hears appeals from verdicts of guilt or acquittal and sentences imposed under the Criminal Code or the Code of Penal Procedure.
Specialized tribunals of Quebec are:
Justice Québec General information on various areas of the law and the functioning of the justice system in Quebec, and on the programs and services available to the public; as well as forms and templates.
Justice Québec – Couples and Families (Separation and Divorce)
Barreau du Québec – Access to Justice Resources List of access to justice organizations (non-exhaustive).
SOQUIJ – Services aux citoyens Free access to judgments from courts and tribunals in Quebec, as well as the Supreme Court of Canada; access to Quebec and federal laws.
Note: Only available in French
Young Bar of Montreal – Public services Call-in legal clinic; hearing preparation services; Small Claims Court mediation services.
Educaloi A starting point for legal information about the law in Quebec, including Family Law.
Fondation Barreau du Québec – Seul devant la cour A series of publications to help self-represented litigants through the court process in the Superior Court.
Note: Only available in French
Centres de justice de proximité Centres located in various locations throughout Quebec and provide legal information, support, and referrals.
Justice Pro Bono Provides resources, legal information and legal clinics in Quebec.
Québec Legal Aid Offices Eligibility and service information for Legal Aid.
University Legal Clinics Free and confidential legal information and/or consulting services in
various areas of the law:
- Clinique juridique de l’UQAM
- Cliniques juridiques de l’Université de Sherbrooke
- Clinique juridique de l’Université de Montréal (Legal Aid Clinic)
- Clinique d’informations juridiques à McGill (Legal Information Clinic at McGill)
Note: Only available in French
Juripop Legal assistance, court representation, document drafting and accompaniment in negotiation and mediation. Services are intended for low-income individuals not eligible for Legal Aid.
Boussole juridique Directory of free or low-cost legal services in Quebec.
Mile-End Legal Clinic Legal information, consultation and accompaniment services for low-income individuals who are not eligible for Legal Aid.
- Saskatchewan
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The Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA) Is a non-profit, non-government organization that exists to educate and inform the people of Saskatchewan about the law and the legal system. PLEA offers programs and services to the general public as well as to school communities.
- Family Law Saskatchewan Detailed legal information to help you navigate a separation or divorce and everything that follows.
Courts of Saskatchewan Information about court processes, rules, legislation, and resources.
Government of Saskatchewan Find services and information for Saskatchewan residents and visitors.
- Family Matters: Assisting Families through Separation and Divorce The Family Matters program aims to minimize the impact of separation and divorce on all family members – especially children, by providing information and resources to deal with a changing family situation; and assistance to resolve urgent and outstanding issues.
- Represent Yourself in Family Court A Self-Help Kit is a package of court forms and instructions that has been prepared by the Family Law Information Centre of the Ministry of Justice. The kits are to be used by parties who intend to represent themselves in court on several different types of proceedings.
- Courts and Sentencing Find services and information for Saskatchewan residents and visitors.
Law Society of Saskatchewan – Legal Resources Resources and legal research guides.
- Yukon
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Department of Justice – Family Law Information Centre (FLIC) Is a legal resource for separating or divorcing couples and families in transition. FLIC is an office of the Court Services branch of the Yukon Department of Justice that provides information on family law issues and court procedures.
Yukon Public Legal Education Association (YPLEA) Is a non-profit organization devoted to providing legal information to the public and promoting increased access to the legal system.
Department of Justice – Law Library Resources, research guides and information to help prepare your legal case.
A Guide to Representing Yourself in the Yukon A general guide to help people without a lawyer prepare for court.
Yukon Legal Services Society Information about eligibility requirements for legal aid and other resources.