Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo with the word "Canada" and a small Canadian flag above the last "a."

Stalking Is a Crime Called Criminal Harassment

Government of Canada
Explains what type of behaviour counts as criminal harassment and what steps you can take to protect yourself. It also includes a list of local or provincial agencies that can offer support or helpful information.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the word "Canada" and a small Canadian flag above the last "a."

Spousal Support

Government of Canada
This fact sheet provides general information about spousal support under the Divorce Act. The act applies to married couples who are divorcing. Provincial or territorial laws apply to unmarried or common-law couples that are separating and to married couples that are separating but not divorcing.
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: Spousal Support

People’s Law School
When a relationship ends, one spouse may seek help from the other with living expenses or to compensate for choices the spouses made during the relationship. Learn about spousal support.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with the word "Canada" and a small Canadian flag above the last "a."

Sexual Abuse — What Happens When You Tell: A Guide for Children and Parents

Government of Canada
This booklet is designed to help children who have experienced sexual abuse. It outlines why a child should tell about the abuse and who should be told. It explains how family members might react and what social workers and police do when they are told about sexual abuse.
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: Separation and Separation Agreements

People’s Law School
Learn about the decisions you must make if your relationship has ended. Topics include separation, and why making a separation agreement is a good idea, as it can deal with support and parenting arrangements, and can deal with property and debt. It also explains what happens to the family home.
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: Seniors’ Rights and Elder Abuse

People’s Law School
When someone in a trusted relationship with an older person does something that harms or distresses them, this is elder abuse. Learn what options exist if you suspect elder abuse.
Last reviewed March 2024
Rise logo with organization name and bird icon.

Seeking a Peace Bond: A Guide

Rise Women’s Legal Centre
This is a resource for anyone in BC who needs protection from a specific person or people and wants to get an order from the court.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover of the Section 211 Toolkit booklet, featuring a person standing on a rocky hill with grass and flowers.

Section 211 Toolkit

Rise Women’s Legal Centre
Provides an overview of major issues lawyers may encounter when requesting or responding to psychological reports ordered under section 211 of the Family Law Act. It was developed primarily for lawyers working with women experiencing family violence, in cases involving parenting disputes.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the cover, with the title, a photo of an elderly woman using a computer, and the Government of BC logo.

Responding to Elder Abuse: Resources

Government of British Columbia
This brochure helps older adults know how to respond to abuse and know where they can find assistance.
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: Responding to Divorce Proceedings

People’s Law School
Explains divorce proceedings in BC. If a divorce proceeding has been started against you, you can do nothing or respond. It explains that a notice of family claim starts a divorce proceeding, and what you need to do if you don’t agree with the notice of family claim.
Last reviewed March 2024