Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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When You Weren’t Expecting: A Legal Guide for People with Unexpected Pregnancies

Rise Women’s Legal Centre

Provides legal information for people who are unexpectedly pregnant outside of a long-term relationship. It isn’t intended for people who are unexpectedly pregnant while in a long-term relationship or where the pregnant person expects to continue their relationship with the other person during the pregnancy or after the birth of the child.

Last reviewed July 2024
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Parenting after Separation for Indigenous Families (course)

Government of British Columbia

This free online course is for parents and family members who identify as Indigenous or have children who identify as Indigenous. It helps parents and family members make decisions about caring for their children after separation or divorce. Learn about guardianship, parenting arrangements, contact, spousal and child support, and using mediation.

Last reviewed May 2024
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Parenting after Separation (PAS) Courses

Government of British Columbia

PAS is a free online three-hour course for parents and others who are going through separation or divorce. It helps ensure that your decisions are being made in the best interest of the children. The course may be required if you’re involved with the court. Offered in Punjabi and English and for Indigenous families.

Last reviewed May 2024
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Trials in Provincial Court

Legal Aid BC

Information about getting ready for a family law trial in Provincial Court, including what happens at a trial, how the courtroom is set up, how evidence is presented, and what goes in a trial book.

Last reviewed May 2024
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Family Justice Counsellors in British Columbia

Government of British Columbia

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.

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

Dial-a-Law: Provincial (Family) Court

People’s Law School

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.

Last reviewed March 2024
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Family Cases

Provincial Court of British Columbia

The Provincial Court handles matters including guardianship of a child, parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, and protection orders. It shares extensive jurisdiction with the Supreme Court under the BC Family Law Act. Find information and guides here.

Last reviewed March 2024
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Temporary Out-of-Care Arrangements (Extended Family Program)

Government of British Columbia

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.

Last reviewed March 2024
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EI Maternity and Parental Benefits

Government of Canada

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

Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with an illustration of a child running towards a smiling woman whose arms are outstretched. The Legal Aid BC logo is at the bottom.

Emily’s Choice: A Child Protection Story

Legal Aid BC

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.

Last reviewed March 2024