Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Trials in Provincial Court

Family Law in BC (Justice Education Society)
Information about getting ready for a family law trial in Provincial Court, including what happens at a trial, how the courtroom is set up, how evidence is presented, and what goes in a trial book.
Last reviewed May 2024
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JP Boyd on Family Law: How Do I Change My Name after Marriage or Divorce?

John-Paul Boyd, KC
Explains the differences between using an alias and legally changing your name, if you have to apply to the court to change your name when you marry or divorce, and the steps for doing so.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Your Bank Account: How to Deal with Problems

People’s Law School
Most of us open a bank account at some point in our lives. Learn the rights (and responsibilities) that come with having a bank account, practical tips to protect yourself, and how to work out problems.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Scams & Identity Theft

People’s Law School
Explains the sophisticated scams that can target you, and gives you tips to help keep you secure. It includes information on the types of scams, identity theft, and what to do if you think you may be a victim of a scam or fraud. It also explains how to protect yourself, and how to take action.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Paying Income Tax

People’s Law School
Helps you understand your tax return and how income taxes work, including who has to pay and what income is not taxable. It explains the deadline for filing, and explains what tax information you need. It links to a tool to estimate your income tax obligation. It also provides information on what you can do if you disagree with your assessment.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

First Steps to Take in Dealing with Debt

People’s Law School
Explains that it’s important to deal with some debts before others. It explains “priority debts” (which should be paid as soon as possible), secured debts, and limitation periods, and explains where you can get help if your debt problem is urgent. It describes the steps you can take to deal with your debt. It also answers some common questions.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

A Creditor Wants to Take Money from Your Wages or Bank Account

People’s Law School
Explains how your creditor can take some of your wages or money from your bank account, the laws to protect you, and what benefits are protected from garnishment. It explains how to apply to set aside a garnishing order, how to file and serve the application, and what could happen at a court hearing.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

If You Invest and Something Goes Wrong

People’s Law School
Explains your rights and steps you can take if you invest and things go sideways. Topics include what problems can arise when you invest, hiring an investment adviser, and the differences between investing in a public or a private company.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

A Creditor Wants to Repossess Your Property

People’s Law School
If you can’t pay your loan, the creditor may seek to take your property to satisfy the debt. Learn your rights if a creditor wants to repossess (or seize) your property.
Last reviewed April 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Your Privacy Rights at Work

People’s Law School
Explains the balance between an employer’s need to know what’s going on in their workplace and a worker’s right not to be snooped on. Information on this page includes what privacy law applies to your employer, and explains your privacy rights during the hiring process, including the fact that your employer must have a privacy policy, and more.
Last reviewed March 2024