Legal Resources

A growing number of women that Battered Women’s Support Services help have been arrested for allegedly perpetrating violence against their partners, despite the fact that in all cases the women were being abused by their partners. This tool is designed to help advocates provide information, support, and advocacy.

This guidebook contains an overview of fast-track litigation (Rule 15-1), for civil, non-family claims in BC Supreme Court. Fast-track litigation allows you to shorten the entire litigation process if the amount in issue is $100,000 or less or the trial can be completed within three days.

Explains the main law in BC setting out the rights of workers: the Employment Standards Act. Most (but not all) workers in the province are protected under this law. Learn if you’re covered. Topics include exceptions, if you’re a union member, and if you’re not covered by employment standards legislation.

This tool is available for you to appeal the property assessment of your residential properties. It allows you to have the option to resolve your appeal completely online. An online guide helps you understand the steps, the appeal issues, and how to determine whether you have a strong case.

Explains that the law protects children from physical and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. Learn how child protection laws work and what to do if you think a child is being abused. It explains your legal duty to report child abuse, and how you make a report of child abuse.

Explains that when parents separate, they must work out the details of how their children will be cared for. This includes decisions about guardianship, parenting arrangements, and contact. Learn about these parenting after separation issues and the laws that apply. You can also find answers to some common questions.

Explains that going to court is just one way to resolve a legal problem. Other ways can be cheaper, faster, and more effective. They often require you to be more involved and willing to compromise. Topics include common alternative dispute resolution options and situations where they might fit best.

Explains what the law says about how someone’s estate is distributed if they die without a will (intestate). A person doesn’t need to be married to be considered a spouse, and the court may need to appoint someone to look after any children. It also explains the duties of an administrator, and more.

Nidus encourages everyone to make a will. However, there are some situations where an individual may be considered not mentally capable to make a will. This fact sheet explains who has legal authority to settle an estate and gives examples of how an estate must be distributed if there is no will.

The final stage in a court case is the trial. This guidebook gives an overview of trial procedures in civil, non-family claims in the Supreme Court in BC. Topics include deciding if you should have a jury, scheduling the trial, what you can use as evidence at trial, and what happens at trial.