Issue No. 35 - Understanding Barriers to Accessing Legal Support for Family Violence faced by Immigrant, Refugee and Non-Status Women in Canada
February 2025
This research brief explores the numerous challenges immigrant, refugee and non- status women in Canada encounter when seeking legal assistance for family violence. While there are legal frameworks and support services that exist to support those who experience family violence, it is important to grasp the specific issues that newcomer women encounter that make it difficult for them to seek legal support. Some of the barriers to accessing legal services discussed in this brief include the lack of legal assistance and information about rights and available supports, language barriers, fear of immigration consequences, financial constraints, socio-cultural and patriarchal norms, and systemic discrimination and bias. The intersection of these barriers and their compounded effects can leave women feeling isolated, vulnerable, and unable to escape abusive situations. Research that examines these barriers can help to create awareness about the unique challenges faced by immigrant, refugee and non-status women experiencing family violence and to show the gaps in family law interventions to support the population.
Click here to view the brief Issue No. 35
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