Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Types of Family Matters Dealt with in Provincial Court

Provincial Court of British Columbia
The Provincial Court handles many types of family matters including parenting arrangements, spousal and child support and their enforcement, child protection, adult guardianship (protection of abused or neglected adults), and child abduction by a parent.
Last reviewed July 2026
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Apply for a Family Law Act Order

Government of British Columbia
Helps you fill out forms for family orders in Provincial Court. These include protection orders, and orders for parenting arrangements, child support, contact with a child, guardianship, and spousal support. You can file the printed-out forms at a court registry, or e-file from this website.
Last reviewed July 2026
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Elder Abuse Is Wrong

Government of Canada
This booklet is for older adults who may be suffering from abuse by someone they trust — it could be a partner or spouse, a family member, a caregiver, a service provider or another individual. This kind of abuse of intimacy or trust is wrong.
Last reviewed July 2026
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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’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 2026
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Help Starts Here: Information on Abuse and Neglect of Older Adults

Government of British Columbia
Abuse and neglect of older adults takes many different forms: physical, sexual, emotional, and financial. This information sheet is part of the Help Starts Here series and provides information for older adults who have suffered abuse and neglect.
Last reviewed July 2026
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Intimate Partner Violence

Legal Aid BC
Explains identifying abuse, protection from violence, and leaving abuse. Includes checklists, court process, and where to find help.
Last reviewed July 2026
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Responding to Child Welfare Concerns: Your Role in Knowing When and What to Report

Government of British Columbia
Booklet explains when to report child abuse and neglect, and what to report. Includes what child abuse and neglect is, warning signs, what to do if a child tells you about the abuse, and what to do if you suspect abuse. It also explains what to expect when you make the report and what happens next.
Last reviewed July 2026
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Stop Family Violence

Government of Canada
A one-stop source of information on family violence that can help you be safe or be part of the solution. It provides links to supports, and resources and services in your area. If you’re a professional, you can find resources and information on these pages to help you effectively prevent or respond to family violence.
Last reviewed July 2026
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Protecting Children — Your Role as a Relative

Government of British Columbia
Provides information about what you can do if there is a child protection concern in your family and contacts for getting legal help. It also explains your role as a relative in a child abuse case, such as being involved in developing a comprehensive plan of care and providing a safe home for the child.
Last reviewed July 2026
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Sexual Abuse — What Happens When You Tell: A Guide for Children and Parents

Government of Canada
This booklet is designed to help children who have experienced sexual abuse. It outlines why a child should tell about the abuse and who should be told. It explains how family members might react and what social workers and police do when they are told about sexual abuse.
Last reviewed July 2026