Family Law Information Centres (FLICs) in Ontario

What Are Family Law Information Centres (FLICs)?

Family Law Information Centres (FLICs) are specialized facilities located within family courthouses across Ontario. FLICs are integral to the family justice system in Ontario, offering a first point of contact for individuals entering the family court system. These centres provide a range of services, including:

• Access to Legal Information: FLICs offer brochures, informational guides, and website resources that explain the processes and laws pertaining to family matters in Ontario.
• Guidance on Court Processes: Individuals can receive help filling out forms, understanding court rules and procedures, and preparing for court appearances.
• Referrals: FLIC staff can direct individuals to various services such as mediation, counselling, and legal representation.

FLICs also host advice lawyers provided by Legal Aid Ontario, who offer free general advice about family law matters.

History and Establishment of FLICs in Ontario

The establishment of Family Law Information Centres was part of a broader initiative by the Ontario government to make the family justice system more accessible and less intimidating. Recognizing that many people facing family law issues were not fully prepared to navigate the legal complexities, the government introduced FLICs as a resource to bridge this gap. The first FLICs were established in the late 1990s, with the objective of providing clear, accessible legal information to the public and to help reduce the number of unrepresented litigants in family courts.

Services Offered by FLICs

Legal Information and Guidance

FLICs serve as a vital resource for obtaining legal information on a wide array of family law issues. The types of information provided include:

• Divorce and Separation: Guidance on the legal processes involved in filing for divorce or separation, including the necessary documentation and legal requirements.
• Child Custody and Access: Information on how custody arrangements are determined, the factors courts consider in making custody decisions, and how parents can draft a parenting plan.
• Support Issues: Insights into child support and spousal support, including how amounts are calculated and the enforcement of support orders.

Forms and Documentation

One of the most tangible supports offered by FLICs is assistance with legal forms and paperwork. This includes:

• Providing Forms: FLICs supply all necessary forms related to family law proceedings, such as applications for divorce, motions to change, and financial statements.
• Help with Completion: Staff and sometimes volunteer lawyers are available to help individuals understand how to correctly fill out these forms, ensuring that they are completed accurately to avoid delays in their legal proceedings.

Court Procedures

Navigating family court procedures can be confusing and intimidating. FLICs offer guidance on:

• Court Processes: Detailed explanations of the steps involved in a family law case, from filing documents to attending hearings.
• What to Expect: Information on court etiquette, the roles of various court personnel, and tips for representing oneself in court.

Referrals to Legal Professionals

FLICs also play a crucial role in connecting individuals with legal professionals. They offer:

• Lawyer Referrals: Information on how to find and choose a lawyer who specializes in family law. This includes access to the Law Society Referral Service, which can connect individuals with lawyers who provide a free initial consultation.
• Legal Aid: Guidance on qualifying for Legal Aid services for those who cannot afford a lawyer, and information on other low-cost legal services and resources available in Ontario.

How to Access FLIC Services

Eligibility Criteria

Who can use FLIC services: FLIC services are available to anyone seeking information or assistance with family law matters in Ontario. There is no income or case status requirement, making these services broadly accessible to the public. Whether you are just beginning to consider legal action or are already involved in a family law case, FLICs are equipped to provide support and information.

Locations and Contact Information

List of FLIC locations across Ontario: FLICs are conveniently located in most family courthouses throughout Ontario. This ensures that individuals have access to support wherever they are based.

How to find your nearest FLIC: To locate the nearest FLIC, you can visit the Ontario Court Services website which provides a courthouse finder tool. Simply entering your city or postal code will direct you to the nearest family courthouse equipped with a FLIC. Additionally, local legal aid offices can provide information on the closest FLIC locations.

Online Resources

Availability of online resources and support: FLICs offer various online resources, which can be particularly beneficial for those unable to visit a centre in person. Their online platforms provide downloadable forms, informational guides, and links to additional services such as mediation and counselling. Some FLICs also offer virtual assistance where individuals can receive guidance directly through their website or via a scheduled video conference.

Hours of Operation

Typical operating hours and appointment procedures: FLICs generally operate during regular courthouse hours, which are typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It’s advisable to visit early in the day to avoid waiting times, especially on busy court days.

Appointment procedures: While FLICs are designed to be accessible without prior appointments, some services, especially consultations with volunteer lawyers, may require booking in advance. Contacting your local FLIC for specific details on making appointments is recommended, especially if you seek more personalized advice or need assistance with complex forms.

FLICs and the Family Court System

Role in Court Cases

How FLICs support individuals involved in family court cases: FLICs are instrumental in providing support to litigants who often enter the family court system with little to no understanding of legal processes. They offer a variety of services to empower individuals, including:

• Legal Education: FLICs provide essential legal information and resources that help individuals understand their rights and responsibilities under Ontario family law.
• Document Assistance: They assist in the preparation and understanding of necessary legal documents, ensuring that litigants submit accurate and complete paperwork to the courts.
• Advice Lawyers: Legal Aid Ontario funds advice lawyers who are available at FLICs to provide brief legal consultations. This service is crucial for those who do not have legal representation and need guidance on their case.
• Navigational Help: FLIC staff help individuals understand what to expect during court proceedings, including how to present their case, what information to bring, and how to conduct themselves in court.

Coordination with Family Law Judges

Interaction between FLICs and the judiciary: FLICs and family law judges often work in close coordination to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the family court system. This relationship is beneficial in several ways:

• Streamlining Processes: Judges rely on FLICs to prepare litigants for the courtroom, which can lead to smoother proceedings and less time spent on each case.
• Enhanced Communication: FLICs act as a bridge between litigants and the court, helping to clarify judicial orders and court procedures for individuals who may find the legal language and processes confusing.
• Judicial Feedback: Judges often provide feedback to FLICs on common issues or gaps in litigants’ understanding, which FLICs can address through targeted informational sessions or revised materials.

Common Questions and Answers

What Can FLICs Help With?

Examples of common issues FLICs address: FLICs are equipped to assist with a broad range of family law issues. Some of the most common include:

• Divorce and Separation: Guidance on filing procedures, legal requirements, and division of assets.
• Child Custody and Access: Information on how to apply for custody, create parenting plans, and understand your rights and responsibilities.
• Support Obligations: Assistance with matters related to child support and spousal support, including calculations and modifications.
• Protection Orders: Help with understanding and applying for restraining orders or other forms of legal protection in cases of domestic violence.
• Legal Documentation: Guidance on completing and filing various family law forms accurately.

What Should You Bring to a FLIC Appointment?

Essential documents and information to bring: To make the most of your visit to a FLIC, it is important to come prepared with the following items:

• Personal Identification: Valid identification such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Relevant Legal Documents: Any documents related to your case, including court orders, agreements, and previous legal correspondence.
• Financial Information: Financial statements, tax returns, pay stubs, and any other relevant financial documents if your case involves financial matters like support or property division.
• Questions or Concerns: A list of specific questions or issues you want to address to ensure that you don’t forget anything important during your visit.

Bringing these items will help the FLIC staff or advice lawyer provide you with the most accurate and relevant assistance.

How Much Does It Cost to Use FLIC Services?

One of the most significant benefits of FLICs is that many of their services are offered free of charge. This includes access to legal information, guidance on filling out forms, and initial consultations with advice lawyers. However, there may be costs associated with specific services outside of FLICs, such as filing fees for court documents or fees for more extensive legal representation if needed. FLIC staff can provide information on what free services are available and advise on potential costs you might encounter depending on your specific legal needs.