Legal Resources

This guidebook gives an overview of how to start a proceeding by petition in BC Supreme Court and how to respond if you’ve been served with it. Topics include whether to start your proceeding with a petition or a notice of civil claim, and how to prepare, file, and serve your court documents.

Learn about what claims you can bring in small claims court, and what the time limit is. It details the steps in the process (prepare the notice of claim, file the notice of claim on court, serve the notice on the defendant, wait for a reply, and attend the settlement conference).

Explains your legal rights if you want to hire someone to do repairs or renovations on your home. It covers what you should know, like holding back 10% of the contract price for a period of time. It also explains how to prevent problems, like checking about permits and getting written estimates and a contract.

The Civil Resolution Tribunal is an online system for resolving many types of civil law disputes without needing a lawyer or attending court. It encourages both parties to work together. If necessary, an independent tribunal member makes a decision about your claim. This page goes over the four main stages of the process and includes a video.

Explains that mental health issues are common, and it’s okay to reach out for help. The page has information about your legal rights, including when applying for a job, disclosing mental health issues while on the job, if you’re treated badly or fired because of mental health issues, or if you can’t work because of mental health issues.

This guide will walk you through the buying process and provide you with resources you can use to help you make an informed decision that is best for you. The guide follows the progression of a real estate transaction beginning with helping you determine if you are ready to purchase and ending with information on making an offer.

This guide explains different types of long-term housing in British Columbia.

Learn about BC’s privacy laws and the protection of your personal information.

Explains the rights and responsibilities of people in marriage-like (common-law) relationships when their partner dies.

Explains the different types of adoption in BC, and where to find out more about applying.