Legal Resources

This resource is for people living in BC who need protection from a partner they are ― or have been ― in an intimate relationship with. Explains how and when people can get peace bonds and family law protection orders, and what the differences are between them.

Lists possible sentences when pleading guilty or found guilty. Explains in plain language what to say to a judge before they decide on a sentence. Learn how to prepare and where to get legal advice. Contains information about Gladue principles at sentencing for Indigenous peoples.

The resource explains what happens when an accused person wants to plead not guilty to a summary offence. It’s designed to guide a self-represented person through the basic steps in the court process both before and at a trial.

Describes how to defend yourself if you are charged with possession of property under $5,000 obtained by crime. Includes what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty, sentencing information, and how to get legal help.

Describes how to defend yourself if you’re charged with theft under $5,000 and what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty. Also includes sentencing information, how to get legal help, and a flowchart showing which Legal Aid BC publications can help at each stage of the criminal court process.

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.

Step-by-step guide for appealing a conviction for people who may or may not be in custody. Explains how to apply for a legal aid or court-appointed lawyer, and if the application isn’t successful, how to prepare for an appeal hearing without a lawyer. Includes all the required forms and affidavits.

Step-by-step guide for appealing a sentence for people who may or may not be in custody. Explains how to apply for a legal aid or court-appointed lawyer, and if the application isn’t successful, how to prepare for an appeal hearing without a lawyer. Includes all the required forms and affidavits.

Describes how to defend yourself if you are charged with a breach of a court order and what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty. Includes sentencing information and how to get legal help.

Describes how to defend yourself if you are charged with assault. Includes what the prosecutor must prove to find you guilty, sentencing information, and how to get legal help.