Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Legal Issues in Residential Care: An Advocate’s Manual

Seniors First BC
This manual describes the key legal issues related to residential care in British Columbia, along with the appropriate processes and available legal or administrative remedies.
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
Logo showing the name "Seniors First BC" in a modern lowercase font in a gradient of blue colors, each letter overlapping the next.

Navigating Home Care and Senior Housing: An Advocacy Guide

Seniors First BC
A guide explaining the types of personal care and health care that are available to older adults in British Columbia.
Last reviewed August 2026
Thumbnail of the cover, with the title, a photo of a person putting keys in a front door lock, and the Rise Women's Legal Centre logo.

Changing Locks When You Are a Renter in BC

Rise Women’s Legal Centre
After separating from a partner, you may want to know if you can change the locks to your rental home. Different living situations can create different legal rights and responsibilities. This guide will help you figure out if you can change the locks and how to get it done.
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
The logo consists of the letters "bwss" in an italic font, in black, with curved black lines swooping round the upper left and lower right. Below this are the words "BATTERED WOMEN'S" in black, with the word "WOMEN'S" in a bold font. Below this are the words "SUPPORT SERVICES" in black, with the word "SUPPORT" in a bold font.

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
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Separating Finances

Justice Education Society (JES)
Formerly part of the Parenting After Separation course, this guide book helps separating couples divide their finances. Includes child and spousal support sections, as well as separating debt, and communication strategies.
Last reviewed August 2026
Rise logo with organization name and bird icon.

Applying for an Exclusive Occupancy Order

Rise Women’s Legal Centre
During a separation, you may need to ask the courts for exclusive occupancy of the family home while your issues are being settled. Find out how can apply and how, as well as how long exclusive occupancy orders last and whether you will need to pay the full costs of the home on your own.
Last reviewed August 2026
Logo features the initials "JES" in green on the left and a grey scale of justice with the text "Justice Education Society" in a circular arrangement around it on the right.

Working with a Lawyer (family law)

Supreme Court BC (Justice Education Society)
This resource explains ways that you may be able to hire a lawyer for your family law case in a way that meets your needs and budget.
Last reviewed August 2026