New Brunswickers are reminded that they will have improved access to family court services starting Tuesday, Sept. 7. Justice and Consumer Affairs Minister Bernard LeBlanc issued this reminder today.
"Our government is committed to ensuring New Brunswickers have the guidance and support they need when navigating the family court system," said LeBlanc. "We have made a $1.3-million investment in this system in the seven judicial districts of the province, and we will monitor these changes over the next three years to ensure they are working effectively."
In addition, a new family law information centre has recently opened in Saint John with an investment of $300,000.
Through these initiatives, New Brunswickers using family court services will see several improvements:
- Family advice lawyers: Community-based family advice lawyers will be available to provide a free legal consultation service for people referred from Court Services. They will help self-represented litigants to understand their rights and obligations and the family court process. They will also help families complete forms, if necessary.
- Mediation services: This service will provide up to 10 free hours of mediation for several issues such as custody, access and support.
- Enhanced client services support: Administrative service officers will be added in each judicial district court office to enable Court Services to help unrepresented parties locate the appropriate information and services.
