Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Mediation — Child Protection and Aboriginal Families

Aboriginal Legal Aid in BC (Legal Aid BC)
Describes the role of mediators in the child protection process, how they can help Aboriginal families, and how to find a mediator. Mediators are professionals who are specially trained to help people reach an agreement. They are also trained to not take sides.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Understanding Section 211 Reports

Rise Women’s Legal Centre
This guide explains Section 211 (custody and access) reports. It includes information about who can prepare a s.211 report, important questions when choosing an assessor, and tips for dealing with a report that is not fair or accurate.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Parenting Coordinators

Government of British Columbia
Explains that a parenting coordinator helps parents carry out their parenting agreement or order. A parenting coordinator does not create or change parenting arrangements. They help parents resolve disagreements about how parenting agreements or orders are put into effect. It also explains how to find a parenting coordinator.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Parenting Apart

Government of British Columbia
The BC Ministry of Justice provides information to families that will parent apart. This resources answers basic questions that parents may have during a separation or divorce.
Last reviewed August 2026
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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 August 2026
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Family Law: What Is a Priority Parenting Matter?

Government of British Columbia
Eight-minute video explains what a priority parenting matter is in BC Provincial Court. This includes health-related treatments and applications for passports, if delay will result in risk to a child; travel; change in a child’s residence; orders to prevent removal of a child; orders about wrongful removal of a child; and more.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Court Orders & Hearings

Aboriginal Legal Aid in BC (Legal Aid BC)
Explains many of the court orders and hearings for the child protection process. Describes the Report to Court, access order, consent order, interim supervision orders, temporary supervision orders, and continuing custody order.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Information for All Types of Provincial Court Cases

Provincial Court of British Columbia
Information about preparing for different types of cases in Provincial Court and appearing in court including tips about dress, food, and electronic devices; legal terms; courtroom layout; and the people you will see in a courthouse.
Last reviewed August 2026
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Planning for Safety in Abusive Relationships

Battered Women’s Support Services (BWSS)
Safety plans can be an important part of leaving an abusive relationship. Use the interactive planning guide, or print out the PDF to create a personalized plan. Also includes plans for safety plans during pregnancy, relationships with children or pets, and safety plans for transwomen.
Last reviewed August 2026
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AI for Unrepresented Parties : Minimizing Risk

Rise Women’s Legal Centre
Helps you understand and minimize the risks of using AI for obtaining legal information, legal advice, and legal drafting. This guide is written for individuals representing themselves, as well as family law advocates and support workers assisting them.
Last reviewed August 2026