S3 E1: Diagnosing the Family Law System - Part I

ABOUT THIS EPISODE: What if we approached family law the way we approach healthcare?

In this first episode of a new season, hosts Vicky Law and Stephanie Melnyk introduce a thought-provoking comparison between the healthcare and family law systems. When a health concern arises, no one expects people to diagnose themselves, understand complex medical information on their own, or navigate treatment options without support. Yet in family law, many individuals are expected to do exactly that.

The hosts explore the challenges people face when trying to access legal information, obtain timely legal advice, and navigate a system that can feel overwhelming and fragmented. They discuss the gaps in support, the consequences of self-navigation, and what family law might learn from a more coordinated, client-centred model of care.

This episode lays the foundation for a multi-part conversation examining how healthcare concepts such as diagnosis, triage, early intervention, and coordinated care can help us better understand what is working, and what is missing, in the family law system today.

Join us as we begin diagnosing the family law system.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Everything that we have said today is not legal advice. If you or someone you know needs legal advice, please consult with a lawyer.

TRIGGER WARNING: Our podcast series will discuss difficult topics such as gender-based violence and intimate partner violence, including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological and financial abuse. Please be aware that this is a thread that is woven throughout all the episodes, and we hope you will take care of yourselves however you need.

MUSIC: Song "Crushing", performed by Reveille (license purchased for use)

GRAPHICS: Melanie Ligale

PRODUCTION: Nithasha PremKumar

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ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION: Rise is a community legal centre providing accessible legal services to self-identified women and gender diverse people in British Columbia since 2016. Our programs and services are aimed at providing limited legal services to economically disadvantaged clients, who are self-representing in their family law matters in BC.

For more information on our organization, visit Rise Women's Legal Centre.