Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Essentials of Work & the Law

People’s Law School

This links to the publication, which explains your rights and responsibilities as a worker. Topics include what to expect once you’re hired, and what happens if you’re fired or you leave your job. It also includes guidance on how to deal with a problem at work.

Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Employment Standards: Quitting, Getting Fired or Laid Off

Employment Standards Branch (Government of BC)

Information about termination of employment for both employees and employers as it applies under the Employment Standards Act. Includes information about paying final wages, giving written notices, paying compensation, group terminations, just cause, layoffs, and changes to employment conditions.

Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Do Employment Standards Apply to You?

Government of British Columbia

Not every work issue or type of work falls under BC employment standards. Workplace safety, human rights, small claims, work permits, and pay transparency may require different resources or agencies. Some workplaces, like those that are unionized, have their own standards. Learn what to do if the standards don’t apply to your issue.

Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with the title, photos of people with moving boxes, and adults smiling with children, and the Government of BC logo.

British Columbia Newcomers’ Guide to Resources and Services

WelcomeBC (Government of BC)

Moving to a new country can be challenging. You probably have a number of questions that need to be answered right away. This guide has information on getting a job, finding a place to live, health services, banking, getting a driver’s licence, the legal system, and much more.

Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Prohibited Actions Relating to Occupational Health & Safety

Government of British Columbia

Explains that your employer or union cannot retaliate against you if you raise an occupational health and safety issue, refuse unsafe work, and more. It gives examples of some prohibited (retaliatory) actions. It also explains what you should do if you have a complaint, and the options for resolving your complaint.

Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Migrant Workers

People’s Law School

This page contains links to what you need to know if you’re preparing to work in BC, including the rights of caregivers and farm workers coming to BC. It explains the steps you need to take to work in BC temporarily, and to extend your work permit. It also includes the steps caregivers can take if they have a problem at work.

Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the first page of the chapter with a table of contents.

LSLAP Manual: Employment Law

Law Students’ Legal Advice Program (LSLAP)

This chapter on employment law is from the manual used by law students handling cases at LSLAP’s legal clinics. It provides an overview of the law relating to employment standards, wages and overtime, leaves of absence, termination of employment, and wrongful dismissal.

Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Leaving a Job

People’s Law School

Practical, step-by-step information on your legal rights and options if you get fired or laid off. Topics include if you are fired, how much notice an employer needs to give you, getting laid off, if your employer has made big changes to your job, and applying for employment insurance.

Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Guide to the Employment Standards Act and Regulation

Government of British Columbia

Searchable online guide to help you understand the law and your rights. The topics covered include hiring, wages, special clothing, records and gratuities, hours of work and overtime, children’s employment, stat holidays and pay, leaves, annual vacation, termination (layoffs), investigations and complaints, enforcements, tribunals, and appeals.

Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

If You Quit Your Job

People’s Law School

Explains that quitting your job voluntarily affects your legal rights to things like employment insurance benefits and compensation you are owed. Learn your rights if you quit, and what steps you can take to protect yourself. Includes information about employment contracts, giving notice, outstanding wages, constructive dismissal, and more.

Last reviewed March 2024