Legal Resources

Information and self-help guides on family law in BC. Topics covered include abuse, adoption, child protection/removal, common-law relationships, custody and access, divorce and separation, child support, and spousal support.

Short, illustrated scenarios with likeable 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.

A general reference for self-represented litigants appearing in Canadian courts. Includes SRL’s rights and responsibilities, family law basics, resolving disputes out of court, legal research and writing, court processes, family violence, and more. Also provides a list of Canadian and BC resources.

Helpful versions of BC’s Family Law Act terms used in the BC Provincial Court’s DARS computer system. When orders can be drafted using these terms, the court clerk can record them very quickly, and can also speed processing in the court registry. Search for “court orders” on Clicklaw for more info.

A 10-minute video describing what justice counsellors do. They work in Family Justice Centres located in communities across the province to help those going through separation or divorce.

If you’re dealing with a family law issue, you may end up in Family Court. (There are advantages to this court over Supreme Court.) Learn what’s involved at each stage.

When circumstances prevent a child from living with their parents, the preferred option is for the child to be with someone they know. The Extended Family Program offers services and financial supports to help improve outcomes for children and youth.

Explains who is eligible, how to apply, how much you could receive, and how long benefits last.

A graphic novel and video that tell the story of Emily, who struggles with addiction and an unhealthy relationship. She loves her son, Greg, but can’t always take care of him. When he goes into foster care, she gets legal help and family support to get him back.

On December 7, 2020, the provincial court registries in Surrey and Victoria adopted the early resolution and case management aspects of the new Provincial Court Family Rules. This page tells you about the process and the steps involved. Also includes a poster and a brochure downloadable in PDF.