Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Family Law Handbook for Self-Represented Litigants

Canadian Judicial Council
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.
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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Extension of Time Applications (WCAT)

Government of British Columbia
This fact sheet explains what happens if your review or appeal is filed late, what steps you need to take to start a late review or appeal, what you should put in your extension of time application, what counts as special circumstances, what counts as injustice, what other factors may be considered, and what happens next.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with two swoops and a circle to represent a person, and "Legal Aid BC."

Extended Family Program

Legal Aid BC
Provides information about the Extended Family Program. Under the program, parents who are temporarily unable to care for their children can ask to have their children placed in the care of family or friends, instead of having them go into foster care.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

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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Estate Planning for Disabled Beneficiaries in British Columbia

Heritage Trust
Estate planning can secure the financial well-being of your disabled child or grandchild. This comprehensive guide on financial planning for disabled people in BC covers the definitions of disability, tax benefits, government assistance, estate-planning options like trusts and RDSPs, decision-making support, and available resources.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo shows the letters "PGT" in shades of blue and green, with the organization name to the right.

Estate and Personal Trust Services Frequently Asked Questions

Public Guardian and Trustee of British Columbia
This fact sheet answers common questions about what is involved in administering an estate or a personal trust. It covers such topics as finding the heirs of an estate, what happens when there is no will, dealing with the deceased’s possessions, and the role of the Public Guardian and Trustee.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Essentials of Work & the Law

People’s Law School
This links to a publication that explains your rights and responsibilities as a worker. Topics include what to expect once you’re hired, and what happens if you’re fired or you leave your job. It also includes guidance on how to deal with a problem at work.
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: Enforcing Support Orders and Agreements

People’s Law School
Unfortunately, some parties who owe child support or spousal support fail to make their payments. Learn the steps to take to enforce payments owed under a support order or agreement.
Last reviewed March 2024
First page of fact sheet with the faces of a happy elderly couple at the top.

Enduring Power of Attorney Fact Sheet

Nidus Registry
Explains an enduring power of attorney, which is a type of POA that continues even if you become incapable after you make it.
Last reviewed March 2024