Reclaiming Your Future: What to Pack When You Leave for a Brighter Start

Leaving an unsafe relationship is an incredibly brave and difficult step. When you are planning to leave a violent situation, your safety is the absolute priority. Having a "go-bag" or a gathered collection of essential items can make the transition smoother and ensure you have what you need to protect yourself and your children legally and financially.

Here is a comprehensive checklist of what you should try to take with you when you leave.

1. Critical Identification and Legal Documents

Having original documents (or at least clear copies) is vital for establishing your identity and filing for legal protection.

• Birth Certificates: For both yourself and your children.

• Identification: Your driver’s licence, photo ID, and BC Services Card (CareCard).

• Citizenship/Status: Passports, status cards, permanent residence cards, or immigration permits/visas.

• Legal Papers: Marriage certificates, family law orders, and any current legal protection or restraining orders.

• International Documents: Any documents from another country regarding you or your children.

2. Financial Assets

Financial independence is key to starting over. It may take time to receive support payments, so try to secure the following:

• Cash: As much as you can safely set aside.

• Banking: ATM cards, credit cards, chequebooks, and bank records.

• Records: Bank account numbers and investment papers.

3. Housing and Transportation

• Ownership/Rental Info: Your rental agreement, lease, or house deed.

• Vehicle Info: Car title, registration, and insurance documents.

• Keys: For the house, car, and any safety deposit or post office boxes.

4. Health and Personal Care

• Medical Records: For all family members, including copies of prescriptions.

• Medication: At least a one-month supply of all necessary medicines for you and your children.

• Clothing: Essential clothing for you and the children.

5. Technology and Tracking Safety

Be aware that cell phones, computers, tablets, and cars may have tracking systems or software that an ex-partner could use to find you. Here's how to approach your technology and devices:

• Make sure to leave electronics with a trusted friend or family member initially.

• Once you are safe, take your devices to an expert to see if tracking software needs to be deleted.

• Consider using a pre-paid calling card for long-distance calls to avoid tracked logs.

6. Children and Sentimental Items

• School Records: To help with transferring schools if necessary.

• Treasures: Items that provide comfort to children, such as stuffed animals or special blankets.

• Keepsakes: Pictures, address books, and jewelry or small objects that could be sold if needed.

• Legal Evidence: Keep a picture of your ex-partner to assist officials in serving legal papers.

If you are navigating a separation involving intimate partner violence and want more specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please call our offices at SiLaw Group Family Lawyers based out of Surrey, British Columbia at (778) 381-9977 or click here to schedule a free legal consultation with our law firm.