Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Death Registration and Certificates

Vital Statistics Agency (Government of BC)
Information about death certificates: how to register a death in BC, how to order a death certificate, and how to change a death record.
Last reviewed November 2025
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Dealing with an Estate

People’s Law School
Practical, step-by-step information about what you need to know when dealing with an estate. Learn what is involved if you are asked to be an executor, the ten steps to settle an estate, and the steps to take if you need to probate the will.
Last reviewed November 2025
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dealing with a Death

People’s Law School
Practical steps to help you and your family deal with a death of a loved one. Learn how you can prepare for a death in the family, what you should do immediately after a death, what is involved when making funeral arrangements, and steps to take next.
Last reviewed November 2025
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Contesting a Will in British Columbia

People’s Law School
This webinar answers common questions about contesting wills in BC, including options other than going to court.
Last reviewed November 2025
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What Happens If Your Common-Law Partner Dies?

Family Law in BC (Justice Education Society)
Explains the rights and responsibilities of people in marriage-like (common-law) relationships when their partner dies.
Last reviewed November 2025
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Dial-a-Law: Committeeship

People’s Law School
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.
Last reviewed November 2025
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Dial-a-Law: Children Born Outside Marriage

People’s Law School
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.
Last reviewed November 2025
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Challenging Your Spouse or Parent’s Will

People’s Law School
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.
Last reviewed November 2025
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Challenging the Validity of a Will

People’s Law School
This guide can help you if you believe a will does not accurately represent the true intentions of the deceased.
Last reviewed November 2025
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Dial-a-Law: Challenging a Will

People’s Law School
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.
Last reviewed November 2025