Early Resolution Process
Last updated on May 1, 2026The Early Resolution Process is a free service that applies to family law matters, such as parenting arrangements, contact with a child, child support, spousal support, and companion animals. It is designed to reduce conflict, resolve disputes out of court and develop plans in the best interests of children.
The Early Resolution Process applies to issues under the Family Law Act in certain Provincial Court registry locations. In these registries, there are Early Resolution Requirements for families who want to resolve a family law matter in Provincial Court. Family Justice Centres and Justice Access Centres in those locations provide services that meet those requirements.
All Provincial Court registries in the Vancouver Coastal, Vancouver Fraser, Vancouver Island, and Interior (including Okanagan and Kootenay) regions are designated Early Resolution Registries. Other locations may be designated in the future.
See the list of Early Resolution Registries, filing locations and Family Justice Services Division (FJSD) offices for more information about:
- Which Provincial Court registries are Early Resolution Registries
- Where to file documents with each registry
- Where to go to get help with the Early Resolution Requirements
Family law matters are defined as:
- Parenting arrangements (parenting time and parenting responsibilities)
- Child support
- Contact with a child
- Guardianship of a child
- Spousal support
- Property division respecting a companion animal
The Early Resolution Requirements which must be met before filing an application about a family law matter are:
- Individual needs assessment meeting with a Family Justice Counsellor
- Parenting After Separation online course, if applicable
- Consensual dispute resolution session, if appropriate
The Earl Resolution Process is followed by a Family Management Conference as the first court appearance. This helps with further dispute resolution and to ensure parties are prepared if they need to go to trial.
The process aims to build knowledge, support problem solving and help parties prepare for next steps.
For more information, contact a Family Justice Centre or Justice Access Centre that provides Early Resolution Registry Services near you. If possible, also talk to a lawyer, who can help you understand the best process for a particular dispute.