Family Law Office (Legal Aid Ontario) – Ottawa, ON

Accessible Family Law Services for Everyone

The Family Law Office in Ottawa is a critical service provided by Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) to ensure that low-income individuals have access to justice in family law matters. This office functions as a lifeline for those who cannot afford private counsel but are facing serious legal challenges such as child custody disputes, domestic violence, or complex separation issues. By offering a range of services from summary advice to full representation, the Family Law Office helps level the playing field in the court system. If you meet the financial eligibility requirements, this office is your primary resource to find a family lawyer who is dedicated to protecting your rights and the well-being of your children.

Services Provided

This office provides specialized support under the Legal Aid umbrella:

• Legal Aid Certificates: issuing certificates that allow eligible clients to hire a private lawyer for their case, paid for by Legal Aid.
• Duty Counsel: Providing immediate legal assistance to unrepresented individuals in family court on the day of their hearing.
• Summary Legal Advice: Offering up to 20 minutes of free general legal advice to help you understand your situation and next steps.
• Domestic Violence Support: Prioritizing cases involving domestic abuse to ensure the immediate safety of victims and their children.
• Settlement Conferences: Assisting with negotiations to resolve disputes without a full trial.

Committed to Justice

The staff at the Family Law Office, including lawyers and legal support workers, are committed to serving the diverse community of Ottawa. They offer services in both English and French and can arrange for interpreters in other languages. They understand the stress and confusion that often accompany family law proceedings and strive to provide compassionate, clear guidance. Whether you need to apply for a certificate or need advice on how to order a lawyer for a court appearance, this office is the gateway to the help you need.

Central Location

The Family Law Office and Integrated Legal Services Office are located at 275 Slater Street (note: some services were previously at 85 Albert St). This downtown location is easily accessible by public transit and is situated close to the Ottawa Courthouse, facilitating easy access for clients with court matters.