Legal Resources

Provides information about committee — a last resort option when someone becomes mentally incapable. It explains the types and responsibilities of committees. Other topics include how committeeship works, how committees are appointed, and how to apply to become a committee.

Under the law, a child born outside marriage is treated the same as a child born to married parents. However, there are some implications for parents and other practical considerations.

If you think your spouse or parent didn’t leave you enough, you can ask the court to rewrite the will so you receive a larger share. This page explains who can bring a wills variation claim, and explains the steps to take if you want to challenge the will.

This guide can help you if you believe a will does not accurately represent the true intentions of the deceased.

Practical information on your options for challenging a will. Topics include what’s involved in challenging a spouse’s or parent’s will based on fairness, and challenging the validity of a will.

This is a booklet for people who have been appointed as executor in a will. It covers the steps involved in dealing with an estate in British Columbia after a person dies, including how to probate a will. The information is current to March 2019.

Outlines what funeral costs can be covered by the ministry if there are no other resources available. It describes who is eligible to apply and how to make the arrangements.

You need to apply for a grant of administration to deal with an estate if the executor does not want to, or if there was no will. The page explains when to apply, what’s involved, the fees, how long it takes, and what to do if your application is rejected. It provides step-by-step instructions on how to apply (and links to the forms).

Advance care planning involves thinking about your health care preferences and letting your family, friends, and health care providers know. An Advance Care Plan documents your wishes for future treatment if you can’t express them yourself as well as who will take care of your personal and financial matters. Includes a downloadable PDF guide.

Generally speaking, adults can only be given health care with their consent. This resource explains consent, and the exceptions to this general rule, including what happens when someone is mentally incapable.