a guide to supporting children exposed to domestic violence

can’t be found, he may not know about the order until police pick him up for
breaking it.
If you can afford a lawyer
If you can afford a lawyer, try to get someone who is recommended by other
women with similar problems, or by professionals working with families exposed
to violence.
Or you can try the province-wide lawyer referral service. You tell them what type
of problem you are having and they give you the name of a lawyer. Call:
In the Lower Mainland: 604-687-3221
Outside the Lower Mainland: 1-800-663-1919 (toll free)
The lawyer you see on the lawyer referral service will give you an initial interview
of up to 30 minutes for $10. Make notes ahead of time so you can make best use
of the time. The lawyer will give you his/her opinion about your problem, what
could be done, how long it would take, and what it would cost you. At this point
you may decide to go ahead and hire the lawyer. But if you’re not satisfied, you
can make another appointment through the lawyer referral service to interview
another lawyer.
If you can’t afford a lawyer, try to get legal aid
You may qualify for legal aid. (If you have Internet access, go to
http://www.lss.bc.ca and click on “legal aid.”)
Legal aid will cover your case
IF:
• The Ministry of Child and Family Development has taken, or threatens to take,
your child away from you.
• You need a restraining order or a change to your custody and access order
because you or your children are likely to be physically abused.
• The other parent is threatening to take your child or children out of the
province.
• You need an order for supervised access because your children are at risk.
You may also be eligible for legal aid
HELPING MY CHILD A GUIDE TO SUPPORTING CHILDREN EXPOSED TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 54