My aunt is not very wealthy. Is there any financial assistance available to apply for a restraining order?

Your aunt may be able to get assistance from Legal Aid. She will find her local Legal Aid office in the phone book.

Some larger centres may also have other agencies that can help. For example, there might be social agencies that offer legal assistance to those on low incomes or student law associations. You may have to make some calls on her behalf to local social service offices, provincial law societies, provincial government offices, university law schools, or courthouses to find out what is available in her area. The provincial law society might also offer an introductory scheme by lawyers for preliminary legal advice.

If she decides to hire a lawyer privately, encourage her to discuss fees early. It might be possible to come to an arrangement with a lawyer regarding a lump sum fee or an easy-to-manage fee schedule.

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January 2006

see also:

• More Abuse of Older Adults FAQs

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