Getting legal help
Domestic violence
Emergency two-hour consultation with a lawyer
If you are experiencing domestic violence, and are in need of immediate help, you can get a two hour consultation with a private lawyer through the Family Violence Authorization Program. Advice on immigration and refugee matters is also available through this program, which is offered through some shelters and community legal clinics.
If this is an emergency or you are afraid for your life, call 911 or your local police service.
If you are experiencing violence or the effects of violence, crisis, and abuse, you can call the Assaulted Women's Helpline, 24-hours a day, seven days a week for immediate help:
Toll-free: 1-866-863-0511
TTY*: 1-866-863-7868
GTA: 416-863-0511
TTY*: 416-364-8762
* a telephone device for the deaf
Legal Aid Ontario has special services to help people experiencing domestic violence. Call our toll-free number at 1-800-668-8258 or contact a Family Law Service Centre or the Refugee Law Office for help and information.
Legal Aid Ontario services extend to all victims of domestic violence, regardless of immigration status in Canada. Free telephone interpretation services for non-English or non-French speaking applicants are also available.
Family law legal aid coverage
Legal Aid Ontario family law coverage is available for clients who are financially eligible and are experiencing domestic violence for all contested issues and changes (variations) to existing family court orders. Call our toll-free number at 1-800-668-8258 for more information.
Other resources:
Listed below are some other resources for those experiencing domestic violence.
Please note that these are external links and Legal Aid Ontario is not responsible for their content.
- Abuse and Family Violence
CLEONet information on abuse and family violence issues - Barbra Schlifer Clinic
Provides free and integrated legal, counseling, interpretation, information and referral services for women who have experienced violence. - Covering your tracks on the Internet
If you are worried your abuser may be able to see what websites you have visited, read these tips on how to protect yourself. - Dealing with spousal abuse: 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. - Do you know a woman who is being abused?
A legal rights handbook from CLEONet - Surviving the System Handbook
Advice on using the legal system if you are a survivor of sexual violence. - Violence against women prevention
The Ontario Women’s Directorate provides many resources.
