Family law case applications can now be filed online in B.C.

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The provincial court of B.C. in Victoria.

British Columbians are now able to complete and file provincial family law case applications online.

The new online service allows people to fill out the forms digitally and answer questions about child support, parenting arrangements, protection orders and case management.

It’s part of a plan to modernize access to court services, according to the province.

“Filing family law matters, such as protection orders and child support in Provincial Court, often means taking time off work and having to travel to a court registry, which creates barriers for many British Columbians,” said Grace Lore, parliamentary secretary for gender equity, in a press release.

“This new service provides an accessible and convenient option for individuals and families, as they can complete and file their forms online.”

The service has a trauma-informed design and functionality, that includes a quick exit button, safety screening, and safety checks throughout the process.

Information is also saved as the user goes through the questions, in case they need to pause and come back to finish the form later.

“This online service has been specially designed to assist those who have experienced trauma and is part of our ongoing work to help people who are facing gender-based violence,” said Lore. “It has been designed in consultation with front-line workers who support victims of violence and provides a safer alternative for people in dangerous situations to file for a protection order without having to attend a court registry in person.”

British Columbians file an average of 21,000 applications every year for provincial court family law cases.

People can still bring forms in to a registry to file in person.

“This type of technology innovation enhances meaningful public access to the court and its processes,” said Chief Judge Melissa Gillespie of the provincial court.

To access the new online service, click here.

Jasmine Bala

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