Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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
Logo features a drawing of a tree on a green background, with the organization name to the right.

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
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Ending Mandatory Retirement

Government of British Columbia
Explains that employers can’t force you to retire because of your age as the choice to retire is yours, although your employer can offer you a reward or bonus to retire. It explains there are some jobs with age limits because of the duties or needs of work or because of safety issues or dangers. It also explains pension and insurance benefits.
Last reviewed March 2024
Screen shot of one-page help sheet.

Employment, Education and Training for People with Disabilities

Disability Alliance BC
This help sheet will help you understand what provincial policy says about employment and people with disabilities, and the training and education programs that are available. This help sheet is part of a series on BC’s disability benefits.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Employment Standards: Specific Industries and Types of Workers

Employment Standards Branch (Government of BC)
Some sectors, industries, or types of workers in BC are subject to specific regulations that only apply to them. Includes information about agriculture, aquaculture, commission sales, domestics, employment agencies, the high-technology sector, loggers, the oil and gas sector, resident caretakers, etc.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

Employment Standards: Quitting, Getting Fired or Laid Off

Employment Standards Branch (Government of BC)
Information about termination of employment for both employees and employers as it applies under the Employment Standards Act. Includes information about paying final wages, giving written notices, paying compensation, group terminations, just cause, layoffs, and changes to employment conditions.
Last reviewed March 2024