Legal Resources

For people in BC who want to know what to do when a loved one dies. It covers preparing for the death of a loved one, what to do immediately after the death, making the funeral arrangements, and where to find support. The information is current to January 2017.

This fact sheet is about your rights as an adult (age 19 or older) to give or refuse consent to health care. How is health care defined? What is required for informed consent? How is incapability to consent determined? When is consent not required? Who qualifies as a health care provider?

Information about death certificates: how to register a death in BC, how to order a death certificate, and how to change a death record.

Practical steps to help you and your family deal with a death of a loved one. Learn how you can prepare for a death in the family, what you should do immediately after a death, what is involved when making funeral arrangements, and steps to take next.

Consumer Protection BC regulates cemetery and funeral services in the province. Learn more about your rights and obligations around cremation, interment, and funeral service practices in BC, and find out what you can do if you have a problem or complaint.

Outlines what funeral costs can be covered by the ministry if there are no other resources available. It describes who is eligible to apply and how to make the arrangements.