Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Early Resolution Process (family law)

Government of British Columbia
The Provincial Court Family Rules introduced Early Resolution Registries, which applies to issues under the Family Law Act in certain locations. In these registries, there are early resolution requirements for family law matters in Provincial Court. This page tells you where the process applies, information about the process & the steps involved.
Last reviewed November 2024
Thumbnail of the handbook cover featuring a collage of different families engaging in activities, with the AFCC-BC logo and title text above.

AFCC-BC Parenting Plan Guide

AFCC-BC (Association of Family and Conciliation Courts’ Provisional BC Chapter)
A guide for parents and professionals across BC to create parenting plans that focus on what’s best for the child and appropriate for their development. A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents about how they‘ll raise their children if they separate or get divorced, setting out how to share responsibilities and time with the kids.
Last reviewed September 2024
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Domestic Violence

Government of British Columbia
Describes the different forms of domestic violence and links to the help available for victims of domestic violence, including a resource list and help line numbers. Also find tips and resources for people in abusive relationships, information about peace bonds and protection orders, and information about counselling for children.
Last reviewed August 2024
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If You Are a Victim of a Crime

Government of British Columbia
Information and guidance to support victims of crime in BC. Find the services and people who can help you deal with the emotional, physical and financial effects of a crime.
Last reviewed August 2024
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Information on Protection Orders

Government of British Columbia
Read about what a protection order is, when you should get one, how it will protect you, and who you can speak with to get more information about how to apply for one.
Last reviewed August 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with title and logo, illustrated with a photo of three generations of women's hands one on top of the other, with the elder's hand at the bottom and the youngest at the top.

Women’s Right to Be Safe

Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of British Columbia
This resource introduces Indigenous children, girls, and women to community services that provide culturally-appropriate support for safety concerns.
Last reviewed July 2024
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Separation Agreements: Your Rights and Options

West Coast LEAF
Explains the law about fair division of family property or debt when spouses separate, and what you can do if you believe your agreement is unfair. It explains how to prepare a financial statement for court, how to manage your case and work with a lawyer, and where to get free legal help.
Last reviewed July 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with the title and logo, featuring a photo of a woman with her back to the camera, looking towards a lake with forest and mountains behind the lake.

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’s not written for those who are in a long-term relationship or expect to be in a relationship with the other person while pregnant and after the child is born.
Last reviewed July 2024
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Trials in Provincial Court

Family Law in BC (Justice Education Society)
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
Thumbnail of the cover of the PDF version of the guide, with a scenic photograph of a mountainous landscape with a path running through a lush green valley.

JP Boyd on Family Law: How Do I Change My Name after Marriage or Divorce?

John-Paul Boyd, KC
Explains the differences between using an alias and legally changing your name, if you have to apply to the court to change your name when you marry or divorce, and the steps for doing so.
Last reviewed April 2024