A method and apparatus for providing a network assisting switch function are disclosed. For example, the method receives a query for feature processing for a call from a switch deployed in a switched network, and determines if the feature processing for the call requires one or more switching services. The method determines if the switch is able to provide the one or more switching services, if the one or more switching services are determined to be required, and initiates a temporary connection to a network assisting switch function in a packet network, if the switch is unable to provide the one or more switching services.