Global News: Domestic Abuse and COVID - Featuring Laura Paris, Shulman & Partners

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped daily life for families across Ontario, but for some, public health measures created serious safety risks behind closed doors. During lockdowns and periods of isolation, concerns about domestic violence rose sharply, prompting urgent conversations about access to protection, shelter, and legal remedies. In an interview with Global News, Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP, addressed the realities facing individuals quarantined with abusive partners and the challenges of seeking help during a public health crisis. Her insights shed light on how domestic violence reports increased, how governments and communities responded, and what legal options remained available for those in danger. The discussion highlights why understanding both emergency resources and family law protections is critical during times of widespread disruption and uncertainty.

“We’re staying in our homes to keep ourselves safe, but if your home environment isn’t safe, it’s almost defeating the purpose of these measures.”
— Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP

During her appearance, Laura explained how COVID-19 restrictions intensified existing risks for individuals experiencing domestic violence. She referenced data from York Regional Police showing a 22 per cent increase in domestic violence-related calls following the introduction of pandemic measures. According to Laura, this rise aligns with broader concerns about forced isolation, reduced mobility, and limited access to support systems during lockdowns.

The interview also explored how governments attempted to respond to these dangers. Laura discussed federal funding allocated to address domestic violence, including a $40 million investment aimed at expanding shelter capacity and resources for women and gender-diverse individuals. She noted that even before the pandemic, shelter availability was often limited, and the public health crisis exacerbated these shortages. Temporary solutions, such as using hotels to provide emergency housing, emerged as part of a broader effort to keep vulnerable individuals safe.

A major challenge raised during the conversation was how traditional responses to domestic violence were affected by COVID-19 protocols. Laura explained that practices like removing an alleged abuser from the home became more complicated when quarantine rules and self-isolation requirements were in place. In some situations, authorities and families had to explore unconventional arrangements, including dividing shared living spaces or isolating individuals within the same household, while prioritizing safety.

Laura emphasized that domestic violence remains an urgent legal issue despite court slowdowns. She explained that family courts continued to treat domestic violence as an emergency matter, allowing victims to seek urgent relief, including orders for exclusive possession of the home. This legal tool can require one party to leave the residence so the other can remain safely with children, even during pandemic-related court backlogs.

Throughout the discussion, Laura stressed the importance of practical, solution-oriented responses. She encouraged individuals to use shelters, trusted supports, or temporary accommodations where possible and highlighted that remaining in an unsafe home environment undermines the intent of public health measures. Her comments reinforced the need for coordinated efforts between governments, legal systems, and community organizations to ensure safety during crises that limit traditional avenues for help.

Listen to the full Global News segment here. 

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media  archive.