Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Builders Liens

People’s Law School
If you work or supply materials on a construction project and aren’t paid, a “builders lien” can help you collect the money you’re owed.
Last reviewed January 2026
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.

Responding to an Action (civil law)

Supreme Court BC (Justice Education Society)
This guidebook will help you defend a lawsuit started against you in BC Supreme Court. Defending a lawsuit is complicated and time consuming, and the consequences of doing things late or incorrectly may be serious. Features sample forms, including a response to civil claim and a counterclaim.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with "Plan Institute" and three overlapping green circles to the right, and the words “for caring citizenship” below.

RDSP: How Do I Qualify? (a step-by-step guide)

Plan Institute
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a Canada-wide registered matched savings plan specific for people with disabilities. This guide is intended to help you complete each of the steps needed to (1) become eligible for an RDSP, (2) open an RDSP, and (3) manage your money.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with "Plan Institute" and three overlapping green circles to the right, and the words “for caring citizenship” below.

RDSP Tutorial

Plan Institute
This online tutorial helps you learn about Canada’s Registered Disability Savings Plan. It consists of four chapters: about RDSP, getting started, opening RDSP, and other info. Each chapter has a list of questions or topics that you can navigate to directly.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Lending Someone Money

People’s Law School
Practical information on your rights and responsibilities when lending money to a family member or a friend.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Getting Out of Debt

People’s Law School
Practical, step-by-step information on your legal rights and options to get out of debt. Topics include budgeting out of debt, consolidating your debts, negotiating payment terms, negotiating a debt settlement, making a consumer proposal, declaring bankruptcy, and people who can help.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Essentials of Consumer Law

People’s Law School
Essentials of Consumer Law helps you learn how to protect yourself when you buy something or hire someone to perform a service. This publication explains your rights for common consumer purchases and contracts, as well as the steps you can take when something goes wrong.
Last reviewed January 2026
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Commercial Liens

People’s Law School
This page explains what a commercial lien is and how it applies to different types of service providers. It also talks about enforcing it and answers some questions.
Last reviewed January 2026
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Online Shopping

People’s Law School
Buying goods or services over the internet can be convenient, but there are some pitfalls. Learn your rights and what to watch for.
Last reviewed January 2026
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