For women
Managing Parenting Time After Court: Tips for Staying Safe and Supported
Navigating parenting time after court can be challenging, especially when dealing with a former partner who may use contact with the children as a form of control. Even with a court order in place, the day-to-day reality can be stressful and emotionally exhausting. Here are a few tips to help manage contact more safely and…
Read moreSupporting after Separation: A Toolkit for survivors’ friends and family members
Supporting a loved one who has left a relationship in which they have been subjected to abuse can be challenging. You may not always know what to say, how to help, or where to turn for accurate legal information. That is why Luke’s Place created the Supporting After Separation Toolkit: a free resource designed for…
Read moreWhat is Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)
At Luke’s Place, we provide support to women who have been subjected to intimate partner violence (IPV). Their stories are powerful reminders that abuse is not always visible and that understanding what IPV really looks like is essential to offering meaningful support. IPV does not always look like bruises or broken bones. Sometimes, it is…
Read moreCollecting and Presenting Evidence in Family Court: A Guide for Survivors
When you’re preparing for family court, especially in cases involving intimate partner violence, how you gather and present your evidence can have a significant impact on your case. Since family court is an adversarial process, it is important to help the judge understand in a clear, credible, and compelling way. Where to begin: A helpful…
Read moreHelping your kids stay safe after separation: A practical checklist
Separation can bring big changes, especially for children. As you sort out parenting arrangements, it’s essential to think about how to keep your kids safe, supported, and prepared. This checklist offers simple and practical ways to help your child feel more secure and know what to do in situations that might feel confusing or unsafe. …
Read moreCourt Etiquette – What to know before you go
Navigating family court can be an overwhelming experience. Understanding and practicing courtroom etiquette can help ease some pressure and help ensure your day proceeds as smoothly as possible. Here are some key tips to help you feel prepared: By following these guidelines, you can focus on presenting your case and avoid unnecessary distractions. Remember, being…
Read moreTips for building a safe co-parenting relationship
Violence does not always end when the relationship ends, especially when children are involved. If you share children with your ex-partner, establishing a new co-parenting dynamic is necessary. However, ensuring this relationship prioritizes your safety is crucial, and that can present significant challenges. Here are some tips, from our toolkit, The Law and Parenting Arrangements…
Read moreParenting Arrangements: Understanding the Best Interests of the Child Test
Family courts use what is called the Best Interests of the Child (BIC) Test to make decisions about parenting arrangements after separation or divorce. The BIC test helps courts prioritize the needs, safety, and well-being of children, to ensure parenting decisions serve the child’s best interest, both now and in the future. Whether a family…
Read more10 Essential family law terms to know
Understanding family law can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating a case. To help, we have compiled 10 key terms that are essential to know in family court. These terms will provide clarity and empower you as you move through the process. Application A proceeding in family court begins when one person brings an application, in…
Read moreEmergency Motions Toolkit
For women experiencing intimate partner violence, an Emergency Motion can be a critical step toward ensuring their safety and the safety of their children. However, navigating the Family Court process, especially during a time of crisis, can be overwhelming, with many women feeling unprepared to take this step. At Luke’s Place, we’ve updated and expanded…
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