Resource collection

Divorce Act Update – A webinar from Luke’s Place

Recorded on August 27, 2019 – Earlier this year, the federal government passed major amendments to the Divorce Act. This webinar explores those changes, especially as they relate to how arrangements for the children will be made, in the context of family violence. It will discuss the new language that replaces the terms custody and access,

Domestic Violence in the Workplace

The resources on this page deal with domestic violence when it extends outside the home and spills over into the workplace. Although they refer to British Columbia health and safety regulations and link to B.C.

Droit de la famille et violence conjugale en Ontario – Carnet d’accompagnement

Ce carnet d’accompagnement est un outil qui peut être utilisé dès le moment où une femme décide de quitter un conjoint violent, pendant le processus de la Cour de la famille et par la suite. Il s’agit de la version courte d’un document intitulé « Droit de la famille et violence conjugale – Guide de référence ».

Droit de la famille et violence conjugale en Ontario – Guide de référence

Ce guide de référence s’adresse aux femmes qui veulent en savoir davantage sur le droit de la famille et sur la Cour de la famille alors que (1) vous vivez dans une relation de violence; (2) vous pensez sortir d’une relation de violence; (3) vous êtes déjà sortie d’une telle relation.

Partner Abuse: How Can a Restraining Order Help?

Recorded on April 30, 2019 – Review or refresh what you know about Restraining Orders: when you can get one for a family abuse or violence situation in Ontario, and how they are similar and different from Peace Bonds.  This webinar is part of the Family Law Education for Women (FLEW) series, co-presented by METRAC’s Legal Director, Tamar Witelson, and family law lawyer Malerie Rose of Rose

Steps to Justice – Abuse and Family Violence

Steps to Justice is a website that empowers people in Ontario to understand and take action to deal with their legal problems.

Understanding the Best Interests of the Child Test

Updated in October 2019 – Custody and access decisions are made using the best interests of the child test, as set out in section 24 of the Children’s Law Reform Act. The test has a number of factors that judges are required to consider in making decisions about custody and access.

Criminal and Family Law

This booklet deals with stalking, assault, and sexual assault. It explains that these kinds of abuse are against the law in Canada and describes how the law can help women who experience this kind of abuse. There is information on restraining orders, exclusive possession of the family home, terms of release, and peace bonds.

Family Court and Beyond

Luke’s Place has prepared Family Court and Beyond, for women who are leaving abusive relationships and are involved in family court processes. It covers many topics, including:

Family Law Issues for Immigrant, Refugee and Non-Status Women

If you or your partner came to Canada from another country, you may face both family law and immigration challenges when your relationship ends. This resource covers these topics: