Abuse & family violence

What is court harassment?

Court-related abuse and harassment happens when one party in a family law action uses the legal system or repeated or ongoing legal actions to harass and abuse the other party. See our fact sheet What if your ex is harassing you through the courts? for a detailed description of this type of harassment. If you're financially eligible, you may qualify for legal representation (a lawyer paid by legal aid) because of these or similar instances of court-related harassment. For more information about legal representation, see the legal aid Serious family problems and How to apply for legal aid pages.

How long can I stay in a transition house?

Transition houses provide temporary housing in a protected, secure environment. These transition houses are usually for women and their children who are leaving abusive relationships. Stays at a transition house are no longer than 30 days. Generally, the addresses of transition houses aren't given out to the general public in order to protect the people who stay there.

What is the difference between a transition house and a safe home?

Safe homes serve the same purpose as transition houses, but the time you can stay there's shorter. Generally, safe homes are in communities where transition houses don't exist. A safe home could be a private home (or apartment) or hotel. Safe homes are only available for stays up to seven days.

How do I find a transition house?

The Ministry of Community Services website provides a list of transition houses throughout BC and how to contact them.

If there's no transition house in your community, you may find help through a safe home program. See the Ministry of Community Services website for a list of safe homes.

Where can I go after I leave a transition house?

Second-stage housing may be available for women who have left abusive relationships. On average, women and their children can usually stay in second-stage housing for nine to 12 months.

Here's a list of second-stage housing (Ministry of Community Services).

After your stay at a transition house, you may also be given priority for affordable housing that's available in some communities in BC.

Can welfare force me to ask for support from my abusive spouse?

Tell your employment assistance worker or family maintenance worker if you're concerned about a violent spouse. The Ministry of Human Resources has a policy that it won't go after maintenance if you or your children are in danger of violence from your spouse. Also, talk to an advocate before you go to the interview. To find an advocate in your community, see the Map of Advocates on the PovNet website.

How do I protect my wife from her family's abuse?

You or your wife could contact police about getting a peace bond, based on incidents of abuse you've experienced. For more information, see the booklet For Your Protection: Peace Bonds and Restraining Orders.

Another resource is VictimLink BC, which you can call at 1-800-563-0808 (no charge) to find out about local victim service providers.