Hello, im writing this on behalf of my roommate who is struggling with her abusive ex. Theyve been apart for about 5 months and the ex has done nothing but be difficult about returning her belongings. It was agreed that he would be sending things of most high value in a suitcase but when the suitcase arrived none of the things of importance were inside.

For context we live in ontario and the ex partner lives in newfoundland. I tried to negotiate shipping belongings but they are refusing and saying we will have to come to newfoundland to get them, we cannot afford a trip like that and frankly my roommate cannot handle seeing this jerk.

Is there anything we can do legally to force them to ship the items? I already said I would pay for shipping but they turned around last minute after agreeing and refused, claiming their lawyer says its not their problem. A moving company was suggested but im unsure how that would work. I just want my friend to be able to have her belongings back but i know the trip out there would be beyond unaffordable as the ferry alone would be 400$. If anyone could give me advice thatd be great, feel free to dm for more details. I could really use some help.

P.S i am currently waiting for a call back from legal aid canada in regards to this.