Does the process cost families more?
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
The Family Justice Centre or Justice Access Centre will provide legal information, needs assessment, referrals and consensual dispute resolution services free of charge.
People with lower incomes may be eligible for free limited legal advice or representation through Legal Aid BC. Please see these links to find out about the services and who is eligible:
Parties may choose to hire a lawyer, a private family mediator or take part in a collaborative law agreement with private family lawyers.