Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Dial-a-Law: Children’s Rights

People’s Law School
The legal rights of children vary from those of adults. Learn the rights of children in several contexts, and situations where their views are considered in decisions that affect them.
Last reviewed August 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Adoption of a Child

People’s Law School
Adoption is the process to legally transfer parental responsibilities for a child from one family to another. Learn what’s involved in adopting a child or placing a child for adoption.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Getting Ready for Family Court

Provincial Court of British Columbia
This guide to a family court trial in BC Provincial Court covers whether it’s the correct court for your legal issue, if you can attend court by phone or videoconference, resources to help you with family disputes, and definitions for some legal words used in court.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Births (registration and certificates)

Vital Statistics Agency (Government of BC)
Information about birth registration services and birth certificates.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Adoptions

Government of British Columbia
Provides information about adoption options available in BC. Includes how to adopt a child, placing your child for adoption, how to access adoption records, and reunion services.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Adoption

Family Law in BC (Justice Education Society)
Explains the different types of adoption in BC, and where to find out more about applying.
Last reviewed August 2026
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JP Boyd on Family Law: Family Relationships

John-Paul Boyd, KC
This chapter provides an overview of the range of family relationships, and examines how the law impacts the people in these relationships. Also provides information about the claims a child’s caregivers and extended family members can make.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Muslim Marriage Contract Toolkit

Canadian Council of Muslim Women
Rooted in traditional Muslim laws, this toolkit helps Muslim women to develop a marriage contract. It includes a sample marriage certificate, a sample Muslim marriage contract and explanatory notes on what each clause means.
Last reviewed August 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Aboriginal Law

People’s Law School
The legal position of Aboriginal people in British Columbia involves an interplay of federal and provincial law, plus treaty and other rights. Learn the basics of Aboriginal law in BC.
Last reviewed August 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Separation and Separation Agreements

People’s Law School
Learn about the decisions you must make if your relationship has ended. Topics include separation, and why making a separation agreement is a good idea, as it can deal with support and parenting arrangements, and can deal with property and debt. It also explains what happens to the family home.
Last reviewed August 2026