Different courts deal with various aspects of the law. That is also true for family law cases. Essentially, there are two court bodies in British Columbia that speak to family situations. Those are the Supreme Court of British Columbia and the Provincial Court.
The final say for all cases rests with the Supreme Court. However, most cases, like those pertaining to spousal or child support, usually go to Provincial Court, but not always. There are certain instances when issues must be decided by a judge in the federal court such as division of family property. Restraining or intervention orders come from the federal court as well.
British Columbia’s Family Law Act makes room for families to sort out many issues with the help of certain experts like mediators and family counsellors. Most of these meetings are informal and a way for separating parents to put their children first. Should a hearing be needed, a Provincial Court judge will hear testimony and make decisions — as in any court — based on the evidence and how issues pertain to applicable laws.
There are many family law resources in place in British Columbia to help families in the throes of separation. People can obtain help on creating a parenting plan, on the division or property, and/or spousal and child support. Getting the advice of a lawyer may help clients navigate legal proceedings as their cases pass through the court system. An attorney experienced in handling divorce and child custody issues can help his or her clients resolve even the most contentious of family law issues.
Source: provincialcourt.bc.ca, “Family Cases“, Accessed on Nov. 27, 2017