Justice Services

The Justice Services Branch of the Ministry of Justice is responsible for all provincial government family justice programs and services. It encourages and puts in place alternatives to court wherever possible and promotes the greatest possible public access to the British Columbia justice system.

The branch consists of six divisions:

• The Civil Policy and Legislation Office is responsible for all legislation, related policy and law reform in family and private civil law.
• The Criminal Justice and Legal Access Policy Division works to ensure legal aid services in British Columbia are provided effectively and efficiently and is responsible for integrated projects addressing crime prevention, crime reduction and the creation of a more effective system of justice.
• The Dispute Resolution Office develops and promotes options for solving disputes without going to court.
• The Family Justice Services Division helps families solve separation or divorce issues. The division operates family justice centres across the province, staffed by family justice counsellors.
• Maintenance Enforcement and Locate Services ensures families receive financial support they are entitled to under court orders or agreements.