Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

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Critical Judicial Decisions for Self-Represented Litigants: Using Important Case Law That Establishes Rights for Self-Represented Litigants

National Self-Represented Litigants Project
This primer contains a concise summary of Pintea v. Johns. It also demonstrates a number of ways that Pintea may be successfully applied in a legal argument, and highlights specific limitations as well. It also includes summaries of two other very important decisions for SRLs that you can use.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the booklet cover with a photo of a woman typing on a laptop. The cover also has the National Self-Represented Litigants Project logo and the Canadian Bar Association logo.

Coping with the Courtroom: A Primer to Help You Navigate the Written (and Unwritten) Rules of the Courtroom

National Self-Represented Litigants Project
Provides info on what to expect on your day in court. For example, what does the courtroom look like? When do I stand and sit? How do I address the judge? Includes practical information on how to present your evidence, object, question witnesses, and make opening and closing statements.
Last reviewed March 2024
Thumbnail of the booklet cover with a photo of a woman typing on a laptop. She is smiling and has a cup of coffee nearby. The cover also has the National Self-Represented Litigants Project logo and the Canadian Bar Association logo.

A Guide for SRLs with Disabilities: Understanding Your Rights and Requesting the Assistance You Need

National Self-Represented Litigants Project
This guide is for self-represented litigants (SRLs) who are also people with disabilities (PWDs). It provides information on disability accommodations and resources in the justice system. It includes a sample letter of accommodation request and what to do if you’re still experiencing barriers.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Driver Penalty Point Premium

ICBC
Information for those who have accumulated points on their driving record and received a bill for a driver premium.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Sponsor Your Family

Government of Canada
Explains how if you are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, you can sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, dependent child (including adopted child), or other eligible relative (such as a parent or grandparent) to become a permanent resident.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Refugees and Asylum

Government of Canada
Refugees and persons in need of protection are people within or outside Canada who fear persecution and going back to their home country. This website provides information about Canada’s refugee programs along with information and resources for those who wish to claim refugee status in Canada.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Immigrate to Canada

Government of Canada
Find out how you can immigrate to Canada, how to protect yourself from fraud, and what to expect after you arrive in Canada.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Charterpedia (information about the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms)

Government of Canada
Charterpedia provides legal info about the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and contains information about the purpose of each section of the Charter, the analysis or test developed through case law in respect of the section, and any considerations related to it. Each Charterpedia entry cites relevant case law.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Canadian Citizenship

Government of Canada
Explains how to apply for Canadian citizenship and how to get a proof of citizenship certificate or card. Also includes information on the citizenship test and preparing for the citizenship ceremony.
Last reviewed March 2024
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Submit Court Documents and Forms

Government of British Columbia
Explains you must make sure all your documents and court forms include all information needed before you submit (file) them. It provides links to finding a court registry to file in person, links to filing by fax and online, and links to organizations offering legal advice (some free).
Last reviewed March 2024