Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Thumbnail of the booklet cover with a photo of a woman working on a laptop. The cover also has the National Self-Represented Litigants Project logo and the Canadian Bar Association logo.

So You’re Representing Yourself: A Primer to Help You Get Ready to Represent Yourself in Family or Civil Court

National Self-Represented Litigants Project
This “getting you started” primer will give you an overview of the process if you’re planning to be a self-represented litigant in family or civil court.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Appealing a Workers’ Compensation Decision

People’s Law School
If you disagree with a decision on a workers’ compensation claim, you can request a review of the decision. If you’re still not satisfied, you can appeal to a tribunal.
Last reviewed October 2025
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Buying a Condo or Other Strata Housing

People’s Law School
Buying a condominium is a lot like buying a house, but there are also important differences. Learn the key things to consider before making an offer to buy a condo.
Last reviewed July 2025
Thumbnail of the cover of the PDF version of the guide, with a scenic photograph of a mountainous landscape with a path running through a lush green valley.

JP Boyd on Family Law: Introduction to the Legal System for Family Matters

John-Paul Boyd, KC
This chapter provides a brief overview of the legal system and includes sections that cover the court system, the law, and the lawyer-client relationship in more detail.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features a circular emblem with a stylized illustration of a family — an adult figure flanked by two children. The name "BC Family Maintenance Agency" is to the right.

Family Maintenance Enforcement Program: Collection Actions

BC Family Maintenance Agency (BCFMA)
Lists the actions the BCFMA can take if the payor of child support falls behind on payments, such as garnishing wages or cancelling their driver’s licence.
Last reviewed March 2024
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.

Trial: Scheduling a Trial (civil law)

Supreme Court BC (Justice Education Society)
An introduction on how to schedule a trial, as well as an overview of jury trials, trial management conferences, the trial record and certificate, and trial deadlines.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Criminal Records and Record Suspensions

People’s Law School
Information about a person found guilty of a crime is kept in their criminal record. Learn about criminal records, including how to apply for a record suspension (formerly a pardon).
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

If You’re Not Happy with a Service

People’s Law School
You hire a roofer to install a new roof on your home. A week later, the new shingles begin to fall off. Learn your rights if you receive unsatisfactory services.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Being Sued in Small Claims Court

People’s Law School
If a notice of claim names you as a defendant in a small claims court lawsuit, learn what options you have, how to act on them, and what happens next.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with the word "Canada" and a small Canadian flag above the last "a."

Taxes When You Retire or Turn 65 Years Old

Canada Revenue Agency
Provides tax information that may affect you when you retire, including the types of income you might receive, as well as deductions and credits you can claim.
Last reviewed January 2026