Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo with a green geometric design resembling two peaks of a roof that is repeated upside-down, above the text "FamilyLaw" in black with the tagline "Legal help for people in BC" below.

If Your Spouse Is Harassing You Through the Courts

Family Law in BC (Justice Education Society)
Includes examples of how the other person may use the legal system to harass (bother) or abuse you, and what you can do.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the first page, with the title, three blocks of text, and the Government of BC logo. It’s illustrated with line drawings of a sun, a leaf, a person, and a house.

Help Starts Here: If Your Child Is a Victim of Crime

Government of British Columbia
Children and youth experience various types of crime in various contexts, such as child abuse, bullying, and dating violence. This information sheet is part of the Help Starts Here series and provides information for parents and other family members whose child has been a victim of crime.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with a green geometric design resembling two peaks of a roof that is repeated upside-down, above the text "FamilyLaw" in black with the tagline "Legal help for people in BC" below.

If You Have to Go to Court

Family Law in BC (Justice Education Society)
Describes what to expect when you go to court for a conference, Chambers hearing, or trial. Includes how to prepare for court, and tips on what you can do and how you should act to make your case go smoothly.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the booklet cover, with a photo of an toddler in rainboots mostly hidden by the large umbrella they are carrying.

If You Can’t Get Legal Aid for Your Child Protection Case

Legal Aid BC
For people facing a complicated child protection hearing who have been denied legal aid but can’t afford a lawyer. Explains why you can ask for a court-appointed lawyer and how to apply. Includes forms and what to say to the judge in court.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with the title, logo, and an illustration of silhouettes of a man and woman surrounded by the words “stop human trafficking.”

Human Trafficking in Canada

People’s Law School
This 16-page booklet is for community leaders, teachers, students, people in social service or health care roles, and others who want to help their communities learn more about human trafficking.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

How Do I Get My Divorce Certificate?

Government of British Columbia
To obtain your divorce certificate, you will need to contact the Supreme Court registry where your divorce was filed. This page gives instructions to obtain your divorce certificate.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the first page, with the title, two columns of text, an illustration of a house, and the Government of BC logo.

Help Starts Here: Information on Stalking (Criminal Harassment)

Government of British Columbia
Criminal harassment is not a sign of love; it’s about power and control. It’s abuse. There are steps you can take to increase your safety at home, at work, and on transit. This guide provides information on what a peace bond does and how to get one.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the words "British Columbia" and a sun rising behind mountains.

About Mediation

Government of British Columbia
Explains mediation, a process for resolving disputes and an alternative to going to court. It covers when to mediate, what mediators do, choosing a mediator, lawyers and mediation, the process, after mediation, and mediation as legal counsel.
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: Guardianship, Parenting Arrangements, and Contact

People’s Law School
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.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with a green geometric design resembling two peaks of a roof that is repeated upside-down, above the text "FamilyLaw" in black with the tagline "Legal help for people in BC" below.

Going Through Separation

Family Law in BC (Justice Education Society)
Describes separation in BC and gives information on mediation, what to take with you when you separate, and how to prove you’re separated if you have to keep living with your ex-spouse.
Last reviewed March 2024