Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo with two swoops and a circle to represent a person, and "Legal Aid BC."

Child Protection

Legal Aid BC
Identifies the law around child protection for Aboriginal children in BC, sets out some aspects of the child protection/removal process, and explains parents’ and the band’s rights and responsibilities.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with the title, the Government of Canada logo, and a design with a heart and a teardrop shape, partially overlapping. There is a silhouette of a child holding a teddy bear.

Child Abuse Is Wrong: What Can I Do?

Government of Canada
This booklet is for the parents or guardians of children. It talks about child abuse in families. It answers questions about the law on child abuse in Canada. This booklet may also be useful even if you are not a parent, but you believe a child you know is being abused.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with the title, a photo of a person putting keys in a front door lock, and the Rise Women's Legal Centre logo.

Changing Locks When You Are a Renter in BC

Rise Women’s Legal Centre
After separating from a partner, you may want to know if you can change the locks to your rental home. Different living situations can create different legal rights and responsibilities. This guide will help you figure out if you can change the locks and how to get it done.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with two swoops and a circle to represent a person, and "Legal Aid BC."

Apply for a Family Law Protection Order Without Notice

Legal Aid BC
Online step-by-step guide for how to apply for a court order to protect yourself from a family member.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Alternatives to Court

People’s Law School
Practical information on your legal rights and options when it comes to alternatives to court in British Columbia.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with two swoops and a circle to represent a person, and "Legal Aid BC."

Family Law Illustrated Scenarios

Legal Aid BC
Short, illustrated scenarios with likable characters sharing concerns and information about family law issues. These engaging picture stories are designed to capture readers’ own situations and lead them to online (and other) resources. On the Family Law in BC website.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover with a photo of a woman and young boy, and the YWCA and Legal Aid BC logos.

Mothers Leaving Abusive Partners: Information on Custody and Access for Women with Children

Legal Aid BC
This booklet is for women with children who’ve been abused by their intimate partner. This includes a spouse or someone with whom they share a child but were never in a relationship with. The booklet explains how to get help and protection, and how to handle parenting arrangements.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the booklet cover, with a photo of an toddler in rainboots mostly hidden by the large umbrella they are carrying.

If You Can’t Get Legal Aid for Your Child Protection Case

Legal Aid BC
For people facing a complicated child protection hearing who have been denied legal aid but can’t afford a lawyer. Explains why you can ask for a court-appointed lawyer and how to apply. Includes forms and what to say to the judge in court.
Last reviewed March 2024