Many women who access the BWSS Legal Advocacy Program are representing themselves in court or finding it necessary to prepare and manage their own family law cases. This is a direct result of financial, social, or cultural barriers that foster inequality and perpetuate the abuse that has already occurred.

BWSS has partnered with the Law Foundation of BC to expand legal advocacy services for women survivors of violence. Since February 2008, BWSS Legal Resource Room has been available for women who are preparing to represent themselves in court. Women have access to computers, the Internet, software, print and other resources so that they can research and prepare for their court appearances.

This resource is our response to what is a reality for many women. BWSS seeks to arm women with information so that they can have a chance as they seek justice.

The real question, however, is why our legal system requires that women must appear in court without legal representation. Women arrive at court every day to present their cases in front of a judge while their abusive partners or husbands stand a few feet away from them. Women who often have limited or no English language skills, no legal training, and no lawyer while their partner or husband almost always has the benefit of legal representation or lawyers.

Call 604-687-1867 or email legaladvocacy@bwss.org to schedule time in BWSS Legal Advocacy Resource Room