Options beyond Toronto Family Law Information Centre
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Overview of the Toronto Family Law Information Centre
The Family Law Information Centre (FLIC) in Toronto, Ontario, is committed to providing a wealth of information for individuals navigating family law matters. Situated within the Toronto Courthouse and operated by the Ministry of the Attorney General, the FLIC office offers accessible resources for anyone in need of assistance with family law, regardless of their financial circumstances or legal knowledge.
It’s important to understand that the front-line staff at the Toronto FLIC office, known as Information and Resource Coordinators (IRCs), are provided by private contractors. These individuals, while not public servants, are knowledgeable about the services connected to the contractors they work for. This article aims to provide clarity on the role of the Family Law Information Centre in Toronto and guide you in using this resource effectively.
At FLICs, you will find a team of highly trained professionals who are experts in family law matters. They can answer your questions, provide guidance, and offer referrals to other services. However, it’s important to note that these referrals are often to services operated by the contractor staffing the Toronto FLIC office. This underscores the need for more transparency regarding whose interests are being served and who is paid with your tax dollars through the Ministry of the Attorney General.
The Toronto FLIC offers a comprehensive range of educational materials and workshops to help individuals understand the complexities of family law. These resources include pamphlets, brochures, and online tools covering child custody, spousal support, and property division. Workshops provide opportunities to learn from legal experts and ask questions about specific situations, ensuring you are well-informed and supported in your family law matters.
The FLIC office also promotes alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as family mediation, to help families resolve conflicts outside of court. This approach is designed to significantly reduce the emotional and financial strain often associated with traditional litigation, providing you with a more manageable and less stressful process.
However, it’s important to be aware that the family mediation services are operated by the same contractors staffing the FLIC office, which may limit your range of solution options and choices.
Effectively Limiting Your Range of Choice.
You will not find information from the many private (ADR) service providers that offer innovative service programs, such as the Information First Model, the Soft Landing Divorce Settlement Method, or the Naked Divorce Filer.
Toronto FLIC Location, Hours, Phone Number & FAQ
- Family Law Information Centre Toronto
Family Law Information Centre Toronto
Monday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Tuesday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Wednesday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Thursday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Friday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Saturday | Closed |
Sunday | Closed |
Family Law Information Centre Toronto Sheppard
Main Floor,
Monday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Tuesday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Wednesday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Thursday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Friday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Saturday | Closed |
Sunday | Closed |
FLIC Office located inside Courthouse
Family Law Information Centre Toronto Jarvis
Main Floor,
Monday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Tuesday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Wednesday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Thursday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Friday | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
Saturday | Closed |
Sunday | Closed |
FLIC Office located inside Courthouse
While some FLICs may offer walk-in services, it is often recommended to book an appointment to ensure you receive the assistance you need without a long wait.
Most services at FLICs are offered free of charge, but it’s best to check with your local centre as some services or workshops may have a nominal fee.
FLIC staff can provide legal information but not legal advice. They can help you understand the legal process and your options, but they cannot tell you what you should do in your specific situation.
Bring any relevant documents related to your case, such as court papers, agreements, or identification. Having these documents will help the staff assist you more effectively.
FLICs can assist with many family law issues, including divorce, separation, child custody, and support. However, for complex legal issues, you may need to consult with a family law lawyer or a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA).
Many FLICs offer services in multiple languages or have access to translation services. It’s advisable to check with your local centre beforehand if you require assistance in a specific language.
Yes, FLIC staff can assist you with understanding and filling out court forms. They can provide guidance on what forms you need and how to complete them.
You can find your nearest Family Law Information Centre by visiting the official website of your local family court or by contacting your local courthouse directly.
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Barrie Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 75 Mulcaster Street, Barrie, ON L4M 3P2
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Belleville Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 15 Bridge Street West, Belleville, ON K8P 0C7
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Brampton Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 7755 Hurontario Street, Brampton, ON L6W 4T6
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Brockville Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 41 Court House Square, Brockville, ON K6V 7N3
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Chatham Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 425 Grand Avenue West, Chatham, ON N7M 6M8
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Cornwall Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 29 Second Street West, Cornwall, ON K6J 1G3
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Guelph Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 74 Woolwich Street, Guelph, ON N1H 3T9
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Hamilton Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 55 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8P 1H4
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Kingston Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 5 Court Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2N4
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Kitchener Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 85 Frederick Street, Kitchener, ON N2H 0A7
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London Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 80 Dundas Street, London, ON N6A 6A3
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Milton Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 491 Steeles Avenue East, Milton, ON L9T 1Y7
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Newmarket Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 50 Eagle Street West, Newmarket, ON L3Y 6B1
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Oshawa Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 150 Bond Street East, Oshawa, ON L1G 0A2
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Ottawa Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 161 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K1
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Peterborough Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 70 Simcoe Street, Peterborough, ON K9H 7G9
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St. Catharines Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 59 Church Street, St. Catharines, ON L2R 7N8
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Sudbury Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 155 Elm Street, Sudbury, ON P3C 1T9
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Thunder Bay Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 125 Brodie Street North, Thunder Bay, ON P7C 0A3
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Timmins Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 48 Spruce Street North, Timmins, ON P4N 6M7
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Toronto Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 393 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1E6
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Welland Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 102 East Main Street, Welland, ON L3B 3W6
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Windsor Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 245 Windsor Avenue, Windsor, ON N9A 1J2
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Woodstock Family Law Information Centre
- Address: 415 Hunter Street, Woodstock, ON N4S 4G6
How Can The FLIC Office Help
Deciding on Divorce and Seeking Appropriate Advice
Although deciding to get a divorce is hard, seeing one through is often much harder. For individuals who have made this decision, the next question will be how to get the appropriate advice and information about separation and divorce to complete the process. Your local Family Law Information Centre (FLIC) can fill this gap.
Divorce often involves many complex legal issues, and if the necessary advice is not immediately sought, this may complicate the whole process. At the same time, it can be challenging to find the right lawyer immediately, and in the interim, it will be necessary to receive some guidance.
Family Law Information Centres play a crucial role in providing legal advice and guidance. They are a branch of legal aid services provided in Canada to assist families and individuals with obtaining crucial legal advice pending when they can retain a lawyer. With the assistance provided by these centres, individuals can get the necessary guidance on what to expect in their divorce, providing a sense of support and guidance.
Services Offered at the Toronto FLIC Office
FLICs offer various services to meet the diverse needs of individuals dealing with family law issues. Common services include:
- Information and guidance on family law issues
- Assistance with completing court forms
- Limited legal advice on family law matters
- Referrals to mediation services
- Information on alternative dispute resolution options
- Support for self-represented litigants
- Access to public legal education materials
FLICs empower individuals to make informed decisions about matters related to family law by offering a range of services. They often collaborate with community organizations and legal professionals to expand their range of services, including workshops and seminars on family law topics. This empowerment can help individuals feel more in control of their situation.
Resources Available at the Toronto FLIC
FLICs provide a wealth of resources, including:
- Brochures and pamphlets on family law topics
- Publications on relevant legislation and court rules
- Information on community support services
- Referrals to legal aid clinics and pro bono services
- Access to public legal education websites and materials
Common Questions Addressed at Family Law Information Centres
FLICs address various questions, including:
- How do I file for divorce?
- What are my rights and responsibilities as a parent?
- How is child support calculated?
- What is the process for enforcing a court order?
- How can I modify an existing custody agreement?
FLIC staff can also guide domestic violence protection orders, spousal support entitlements, and the division of marital assets.
ADR Options at the Toronto FLIC
The Toronto FLIC provides information on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options, such as mediation. ADR can be less adversarial and more focused on finding mutually beneficial solutions. Mediation involves a neutral third party facilitating discussions, while collaborative law involves cooperative techniques with legal representation for each party.
Navigating the Legal System with the Help of the FLIC Office
FLICs help individuals navigate the legal system by assisting with court forms, providing information on court processes and procedures, and offering insight into timelines. Workshops and seminars educate the public on various legal topics, and FLICs provide referral lists for legal aid services, mediation programs, and counselling options.FLICs also provide online resources like webinars, interactive tools, and downloadable guides.
How to Prepare for Your Visit to a FLIC
Before visiting a FLIC, gather relevant documents and information related to your family law matter. Creating a timeline of events can help FLIC staff understand your situation better. Write down key points or questions to discuss, ensuring nothing important is overlooked during your visit.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip to the FLIC
To ensure a productive session at a FLIC:
- Come prepared with relevant documents and information
- Take notes during your appointment
- Ask for clarification if needed
- Follow up with additional questions or concerns
- Arrive a few minutes early to gather your thoughts and review essential documents
Challenges Faced by Family Law Information Centres (FLICs)
Firstly, the high demand for services often leads to long wait times, making it difficult for individuals to access timely assistance. Additionally, while FLICs offer valuable legal information, they sometimes need to improve their ability to provide personalized advice tailored to specific situations. The breadth of information can be overwhelming, and with adequate guidance, individuals may be able to identify the most relevant resources for their needs.
Moreover, despite being staffed by duty counsel and referral coordinators with expertise, FLICs may need more capacity to provide in-depth support for complex cases. Relying on standardized forms and procedures can also lead to a one-size-fits-all approach, which may not adequately address each family’s unique circumstances.
Furthermore, the availability of services can vary widely across different regions, with some areas experiencing a scarcity of resources. This inconsistency can create significant disparities in access to justice and support, particularly in rural or underserved communities.
Finally, while FLICs provide a foundation of support, they may not fully address the emotional and financial complexities of separation and divorce. Individuals often require a more holistic approach, including mediation, financial planning, and emotional support, to navigate their circumstances effectively.
Understanding these challenges underscores the crucial need for seeking additional support and exploring alternative dispute resolution methods. This approach can significantly enhance the resolution of family law matters.
Understanding the limitations of FLIC
However, these centres do not provide the best solution for several reasons. As I will share with you in this article, Family Law Information Centres may lead to more problems down the road. Although they are reasonable, there are better alternatives. We will explore why below.
The Challenges with Family Law Information Centres
![Family Law Information Centre – Jamie Ryan Options beyond Peterborough Family Law Information Centre](https://divorcethesmartway.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Family-Law-Information-Centre-Jamie-Ryan.jpg)
Jamie Ryan says that … The province’s Family Law Information Centre at the Ottawa courthouse has been somewhat helpful, he notes, “but they’re supporting a system that’s just so archaic and detailed, and it’s built around criminality. It’s just a vortex of confusion, delays, and expenses.”
According to the preliminary results of groundbreaking new research, Ryan’s experiences are typical…
The major problems with FLICs are not so much about the centres themselves but about the system in which they operate, the Divorce Industrial Complex aha the system. There are mainly two problems here. First, the family law system in Canada and Ontario is fundamentally broken and FLICs serve as a gateway to the system.
The system only encourages a superficial treatment of the deep issues that spur and underlies divorce, without providing any real benefit to the parties. Divorce is intensely emotional and a lot of the time, it is these emotions that rule over legal issues like child custody, alimony and property division.
But since the court is one of law and not one of emotions, it cannot really do anything about these. At the end of the day, going through the family law system only means that couples give up the right and means to completely solve their own problems by themselves. And they give this up to a system that is just as incapable as they are.
Second, even the few positives that remain in FLICs have been steadily dwindling in recent years due to sustained cuts in legal aid funding. These centres are gradually losing the resources they need to provide value, which means they have fewer lawyers and personnel that can attend to clients.
In fact, due to the poor circumstances regarding legal aid, paid alternatives are already being introduced in courts. According to statistics, in more than half of family law cases in Canadian courts, at least one party shows up unrepresented.
As part of moves to tackle this problem, family lawyers in Toronto started the Advice and Settlement Counsel Toronto initiative. The project allows self-represented litigants to acquire the services of family lawyers in the court premises for up to 1 hour, at a price of $200.
But this doesn’t solve much because after your 1 hour is used up, you’re still in the same broken system and will likely have to shell out again on the next court date. Rather than continue in the system, you are better off looking at other alternatives that will provide more comprehensive solutions.
Finding the Quality Support You Need
There are better alternatives that you can explore
There are better alternatives available. The Family Law Information Centres are part of an outdated and broken system that honest insiders describe as slow, expensive, and adversarial. Fortunately, there are several time-proven alternatives to litigation for resolving divorce and family law disputes. The models, methods, tools, and professionals I will share with you here are especially valuable because of the profound resolutions they bring to family law disputes. They include
Early Neutral Consultation
Simply most high-conflict, high-cost and troublesome separations are rooted in the lack of clear information and communication early in the separation. Without early information, many families end up stuck in the court system, which results in delays, higher costs and injustices.
![The Best to Start Your Separation](https://divorcethesmartway.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/ENC.jpg)
The Best to Start Your Separation
Don’t let your solo information gathering leave your spouse feeling vulnerable, as this will only further divide you. Bring them alongside with an Early Neutral Consultation. In this joint meeting, you each ask the questions you need to be answered. You both will hear a range of possible options tailored to your circumstances. From here you decide the best way to proceed.
Imagine the clarity created by hearing the information together. Think of the reduced stress you both will feel empowered with crucial information necessary to move forward to a soft landing, saving time and family resources.
If the only takeaway from an Early Neutral Consultation is a range of custom-tailored resolution options, it would be worth it. So would your reduced stress and improved clarity?.
Your separation has you at a fork in your life’s journey, choose the only path to a soft landing, start with an Early Neutral Consultation.
Family Law Coach
The role of a legal coach is to help you objectively assess your legal situation and develop the ability to put your best case forward. This includes looking at what you’ve already done, and what you can do better.
![video](https://divorcethesmartway.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/explainer_video.png)
An effective legal coach will facilitate your understanding of your objectives, enhance the skills and tools you already have, and help you develop those you may need, so you can achieve those objectives.
Legal coaching is about helping you get the most effect from the facts and skills you have to work with. Tap Here for more about Legal Coaching
LegalShield Canada
LegalShield Canada offers affordable and accessible legal services through a subscription model, allowing individuals and families to consult with experienced lawyers without incurring high hourly fees.
By paying a monthly fee, members gain access to a network of dedicated law firms for various legal issues, including estate planning, family law, real estate, and more.
Family Coach
A family coach is a neutral professional the helps families master their feelings and attitudes. They especially work with families to develop healthier and more effective patterns of behaviour.
With their background in psychological counselling, they will support individuals in the emotional aspects of divorce and help them towards divorce recovery.
A family coach may be able to help develop your co-parenting plan to ensure the emotional needs of your children are met. You may not even have to worry about paying them as their services may sometimes be covered by your employer’s extended health plan.
Psychology Today’s Directory allows you to search for family coaches and therapists by location, specialization, and more. It’s a comprehensive resource for finding licensed professionals.
Mediator in Private Practice
![Online Divorce Mediation-Ontario-500 Family Mediator](https://divorcethesmartway.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Online-Divorce-Mediation-Ontario-500.jpg)
A family mediator is also a neutral professional who assists separating couples in finding mutually acceptable solutions to their divorce issues. These professionals can help with all aspects of divorce or separation, including child custody and access, spousal support and the division of assets. A family mediator will often be identified by the designation “Acc. FM” (Accredited Family Mediator), indicating that they have undergone extensive and highly specific training. You can find a list of local family mediation services provided by accredited family mediators here, or you can contact me for a free information session.
If you feel my Soft Landing Divorce Settlement Method is not a good fit for you or my location is not convenient (and Virtual or Remote Location Mediation is not an option.) It is still vital that you mediate your separation and divorce. You can find a Mediator listed at following organizations:
If you feel my Soft Landing Divorce Settlement Method is not a good fit for you or my location is not convenient (and Virtual or Remote Location Mediation is not an option.) It is still vital that you mediate your separation and divorce. You can find a Mediator listed at following organizations:
Certified Divorce Financial Analyst
Since most divorces will include sensitive financial matters, a divorce financial specialist can help. They are neutral professionals who assist separating couples in coming up with a neutral, joint financial statement from which they can begin to negotiate in a meaningful fashion. Their approach is especially valuable to help couples clear misconceptions about perceived worth vs. real worth and the value of specific assets.
As highly and specifically trained individual, divorce financial specialists (such as myself) use the “CFDA” (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) designation. You can find a local CDFA here or contact me at 1-877 932 8389 an absolutely free, no-obligation information session.
These professionals are available and accessible to protect your money, save you time and help you move forward quickly from your divorce. They will work alongside a lawyer to help you prepare a separation agreement with your spouse that is binding, and takes both your into consideration.
The Naked Divorce Filer
![naked-devos Simple Divorce Application Naked Divorce](https://divorcethesmartway.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/naked-devos-e1485757132906-1024x466.jpg)
The Naked Divorce Filer is a cost-effective, technology-driven service for filing uncontested divorces, eliminating the need for expensive legal fees. Complete a simple online questionnaire to initiate the process, and our team prepares and reviews your documents for legal compliance.
Suitable for couples with no disputes over custody, support, or property, this service offers detailed instructions and support throughout. Opt for simplicity and affordability with Naked Divorce Filer.
The Soft Landing Separation and Divorce Settlement Method
The Soft Landing Separation and Divorce Settlement Method is a comprehensive and compassionate approach designed to simplify the divorce process. This method focuses on ensuring a fair and equitable division of assets and liabilities through a detailed financial walkthrough, including asset identification and valuation, income assessment, expense analysis, financial projections, and settlement scenarios.
It emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and open communication, reducing conflict and costs while empowering couples to shape their outcomes. This method provides a supportive environment, guiding you through both the financial and emotional aspects of your separation, ultimately leading to a smooth and amicable resolution.
The Information First Model
The Information First Model is an innovative approach in divorce mediation and settlement that prioritizes providing comprehensive information and resources to clients before they make any decisions or take any actions. This model emphasizes the importance of understanding all aspects of the divorce process, including financial implications, legal requirements, and emotional considerations, to empower individuals to make informed choices.
Get Acquainted Call
Do you want a Soft Landing?
Have a few questions?
Learn More:
Schedule a 15-Minute Complimentary Call
Ken S, Maynard CDFA Acc.FM
![Ken Maynard with Kim and Pups Ken S Maynard CDFA Acc.FM](https://divorcethesmartway.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Ken-Maynard-with-Kim-and-Pups-1024x683.jpg)
Profile
Becoming a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst and Mediator was more than a professional choice for me; it was a deeply personal journey. In 2007, I navigated the family court system myself, an experience that was both challenging and enlightening. This journey inspired me to use my financial expertise to assist others facing similar situations. Growing up with practical money management skills from my family’s agribusiness, I further honed my abilities in Real Estate restructuring and as an analyst at two of Canada’s largest mutual fund managers.
I am dedicated to empowering parties to make informed decisions, recognizing that multiple solutions exist for every dilemma during the settlement process. My approach is rooted in patience and thoroughness, ensuring that every voice is heard.
I offer a comprehensive suite of services, leaving no stone unturned in addressing your divorce financial analysis and mediation needs. From information gathering to analysis, settlement negotiations, and document drafting, I guide you through every step of the way. Using an interest-based negotiation approach, I tailor my services to meet each couple’s unique needs.
What truly sets my services apart is our proprietary Soft Landing Divorce Settlement Method. This method is not just a tool but a testament to our commitment to your well-being. It is designed to facilitate smoother and more amicable settlements, ensuring that both parties feel heard and their needs are met.
The process begins with a “Get Acquainted” call, often conducted jointly but available individually. During this call, I will explain my hybrid fee schedule, which combines a flat fee for certain services and an hourly rate for others, and address any questions about the Soft Landing Separation and Divorce Settlement Method. Upon agreement, we proceed with the mediation process.
Many clients initially dismiss mediation due to preconceived notions or external influences. However, mediation invariably adds value to the separation process by narrowing issues and testing settlement perceptions against reality.
I am available most weekdays and work with couples across Ontario via Zoom video conference. Clients can also choose to meet with one of my highly trained associate mediators at various locations throughout the province.
Away from the Office
I have three young adult children who have grown into fine, productive members of society. My oldest is a Private Equity Banker, my middle child is a Nurse, and my youngest is a Digital Marketer. They were raised with strong values that give them the resiliency to navigate their parents’ separation at a young age and build quality personal relationships.
Away from the office, I love to chill out by taking my beach chair to our local beach. With neighbors and friends, we set our chairs at the water’s edge and let the waves roll in, enjoying conversations about nothing overly important. My hobby is digital marketing, and I take great enjoyment in growth hacking my business and sharing what I learn with my Digital Marketer daughter.
I actively attend and contribute to the Institute of Divorce Financial Analysts and the Ontario Association of Family Mediation
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FLIC Office located inside Courthouse