Getting legal help
Domestic violence
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Legal Aid Ontario has special services to help victims of domestic violence.
People who are experiencing violence or the effects of violence, crisis and abuse can call:
Assaulted Women's Helpline
Toll-free: 1-866-863-0511
TTYTTY - a telephone device for the deaf: 1-866-863-7868GTA: 416-863-0511
TTYTTY - a telephone device for the deaf: 416-364-8762Website: www.awhl.org
People who are experiencing violence or the effects of violence, crisis and abuse can also contact Family law offices or the Refugee Law Office for help and information.
Legal Aid Ontario family law coverage is available for clients who are financially eligible and are victims of domestic violence for all contested issues and changes (variations) to existing family court orders.
Legal Aid Ontario also provides access to free telephone interpretation services for non-English or non-French speaking applicants.
Legal Aid Ontario services extend to all victims of domestic violence, regardless of immigration status in Canada.
Other resources:
Listed below are some other resources for victims of domestic violence.
Please note that these are external links and Legal Aid Ontario is not responsible for their content.
Covering your tracks on the Internet
If you are worried your abuser may be able to see what websites you have visited, looking at these tips may help you protect yourself.
Resources and services
The Ontario government offers resources and links to help people who are experiencing violence or the effects of violence, including their rights, how to cover web tracks, going to court and more.
Violence against women prevention
The Ontario Women’s Directorate provides many resources.
Help for assaulted women
Find services for women of all ages who have experienced, live with or are in fear of violence.
Help for women in crisis
Find free confidential support services.
Dealing with spousal abuse
Provides advice and assistance to women in abusive situations, their families and close friends.
Barbra Schlifer Clinic
Provides free and integrated legal, counseling, interpretation, information and referral services for women who have experienced violence.
Surviving the System Handbook
Advice on using the legal system if you are a survivor of sexual violence.
Family violence authorization program
People experiencing violence or the effects of violence, crisis and abuse, who are in need of urgent assistance can get authorization for a 2 hour consultation with a private lawyer through some shelters and community legal clinics.