Legal Resources

Lists possible sentences when pleading guilty or found guilty. Explains in plain language what to say to a judge before they decide on a sentence. Learn how to prepare and where to get legal advice. Contains information about Gladue principles at sentencing for Indigenous peoples.

The resource explains what happens when an accused person wants to plead not guilty to a summary offence. It’s designed to guide a self-represented person through the basic steps in the court process both before and at a trial.

Short, easy-to-understand resource that outlines what happens when someone is charged with a criminal offence. It briefly describes the first steps in the court process and the different options that might be available. It also outlines the accused person’s legal rights, and how to get legal aid or other legal help.

For people facing serious and complex criminal charges who have been denied legal aid but can’t afford a lawyer. Explains why, how, and when to ask the judge to appoint a free lawyer. Note: The French version doesn’t include recent updates that are in the English version.

Step-by-step guide for appealing a sentence for people who may or may not be in custody. Explains how to apply for a legal aid or court-appointed lawyer, and if the application isn’t successful, how to prepare for an appeal hearing without a lawyer. Includes all the required forms and affidavits.

Step-by-step guide for appealing a conviction for people who may or may not be in custody. Explains how to apply for a legal aid or court-appointed lawyer, and if the application isn’t successful, how to prepare for an appeal hearing without a lawyer. Includes all the required forms and affidavits.

Describes how to defend yourself if you’re charged with theft under $5,000 and what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty. Also includes sentencing information, how to get legal help, and a flowchart showing which Legal Aid BC publications can help at each stage of the criminal court process.

Describes how to defend yourself if you are charged with possession of property under $5,000 obtained by crime. Includes what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty, sentencing information, and how to get legal help.

Describes how to defend yourself if you are charged with possession of an illegal drug and what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty. Includes sentencing information and how to get legal help.

Describes how to defend yourself if you are charged with mischief and what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty. Includes sentencing information and how to get legal help.