Legal Resources

This page will help you learn basic information about courtrooms, court procedures, and common legal words.

A detailed guide to the factors and principles that a judge considers when sentencing criminal cases in BC Provincial Court.

Links to guides such as getting ready for criminal court, the steps in a criminal case, Indigenous sentencing courts, youth courts, protection orders, and alternatives to court. You’ll also find practice directions and rules that the court has issued about its procedures, and picklists with standard wording for orders and applications.

General guidance for appearing in court by computer or phone without having to physically be in the courthouse. This applies to small claims court, provincial family court, and some criminal bail hearings.

Information about preparing for different types of cases in Provincial Court and appearing in court including tips about dress, food, and electronic devices; legal terms; courtroom layout; and the people you will see in a courthouse.

Explains the steps of a criminal case, with links to details about the bail hearing, the initial appearance, the arraignment hearing, the preliminary hearing, the Provincial Court trial, and sentencing.

Explains Indigenous Courts including court locations, how they work, and their goals.

The Parole Board of Canada is an independent group that makes decisions about early release, record suspensions, and clemency. They help reintegrate offenders into society while focusing on public safety. Includes information for victims of crime.

The Criminal Code of Canada allows a judge or justice of the peace to require you to enter a recognizance (like a peace bond) if there are reasons to believe you will commit certain serious crimes. This booklet explains the 810 process, what your rights are, and how to get legal help.

This chapter is from the manual used by law students handling cases at LSLAP’s legal clinics. It includes an overview of criminal procedure and sentencing in the youth justice context.