Clicklaw Wikibooks - User contributions [en]

Opting Out and Cooling-off Periods

2018-06-13T19:14:15Z

Drew:

{{REVIEWEDPLS | reviewer = [[Alison Ward]]|date= June 2018}}{{Consumer and Debt Law TOC}}

{{ambox
| type = content
| small = center
| image =
| smallimage =
| textstyle =
| text = This page is in the process of being updated. Please check back shortly. 
| smalltext =
}}

== Client problems ==

* Client entered into a contract for goods or services and now wants out of the contract, even though there is nothing wrong with what the client bought.
* Client heard they had 10 days to take goods back to a store, but the store will not accept the goods.

== Summary of the law ==
If there is no fault in a contract between a seller and a buyer, consumers generally do not have the right to change their mind and get out of the contract. There either must be a reason to get out of the contract, such as the goods being unsatisfactory, or one of the exceptions explained below must apply.

If there is no reason, the only way to get out of the contract is if the seller agrees. If this is the case, the consumer and the seller are actually making a new agreement—to let the consumer out of the old agreement.

=== Common law exceptions ===
The consumer may be able to get out of a contract if the contract specified the consumer could choose to do so. For example, some department stores advertise that they allow consumers to return any product purchased at the store. In law, the promise in the advertisement would probably be considered a term of every sale contract the store makes (see the [[Contracts Overview|contracts overview]]). Or, a seller may promise a particular consumer they could return a product or the contract could be cancelled.

Promises stated clearly in a contract are called “explicit terms”. The parties specifically discuss and agree to such explicit terms. Other promises that allow a contract to be cancelled might be “implied” terms. For example, if a store displays a sign reading “No Refunds—Only Exchanges”, it could be argued this gives the buyer an additional contractual right of exchange, regardless of the quality of the product, since the consumer already has the legal right to return goods that are fundamentally defective.

There may be either explicit or implicit limits, or both, on the contractual right of exchange. There may also be time limits. For example, some stores advertise that the consumer has a limited number of days to bring any goods back for a refund. If there is no time limit specified, the law would probably say the consumer has a reasonable time to ask for the refund. The law does not have a set definition for “reasonable time”. It varies depending on, for example, what was bought, where it was bought, and what the implied terms of the contract were.

There may also be limits arising from the consumer’s use of the product. For example, a store may advertise that it accepts returns as long as the product is, essentially, unused. If there is no explicit term regarding use, the law would probably say that the product has to be resalable as new or near-new before the consumer could ask for a refund.
=== Statutory exceptions ===
The ''[http://canlii.ca/t/84mr Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act]'' gives consumers some rights to cancel certain contracts, beyond the general rights in common law.

Refer to sections 17 to 56 of the Act and the Consumer Contracts Regulation for specifics. Here are some general guidelines.

==== Door-to-door sales ====

Many consumers believe they can only cancel door-to-door sales contracts. However, the terms of the ''Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act'' actually apply to a wider range of transactions. The Act’s cancellation provisions apply to “'''direct sales contracts'''”—contracts for goods and services entered into in person at a place other than the supplier’s permanent place of business. This covers door-to-door sales and other situations.

If a direct seller makes a sale somewhere other than a permanent place of business, s. 21(1) says a consumer has 10 days after the date that the consumer receives the contract to cancel the contract (longer in some instances). This means that if a consumer receives a copy of a direct sales contract on February 1, for example, the consumer has up to and including February 11 to cancel.

A consumer may cancel a direct sales contract not later than one year after the date the consumer receives a copy of the contract if:
* the contract does not meet the content requirements set out in the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act,
* the supplier was under a direct sales prohibition order at the time the contract was made, or
* the goods or services were not supplied within 30 days of the supply date.

Distance sales contracts
The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, in s. 17, defines distance sales contracts as contracts for the supply of goods and services that are not entered into in person, and, in the case of goods, where the consumer does not have an opportunity to inspect the goods at the time the contract is entered into (for example, online purchases or catalogue sales).
A consumer has the right to cancel a distance sales contract no later than seven days after receiving a copy of it if the contract does not comply with the requirements for contracts in electronic form or otherwise comply with the content requirements of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act. A consumer has up to 30 days to cancel a distance sales contract if the supplier does not supply the consumer with a copy of the contract within 15 days of the contract being made.
If a supplier fails to deliver the goods or services within 30 days of the supply date in the contract, the consumer may cancel the contract. If no supply date was specified in the contract and the supplier does not deliver the goods or services within 30 days, the consumer has the right to cancel 30 days from the date the contract was entered into.
Future performance contracts and continuing service contracts
Future performance contracts are defined in s. 17 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act as contracts for the supply of goods or services for which the supply or payment in full is not made at the time the contract is executed. Continuing service contracts are future performance contracts that provide for the performance of services on a continuing basis. Examples of continuing service contracts are gym memberships and dance lesson contracts.
A consumer has the right to cancel a future performance contract no later than one year after the date the consumer receives a copy of the contract if the contract does not contain the information required by the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, such as the supply date, the amount of each periodic payment, etc.
A consumer may cancel a continuing service contract no later than 10 days after receiving a copy of the contract, or at any time if there has been a material change in the circumstances of the consumer or the supplier. Examples of material changes in the circumstances of the consumer provided in s. 25(3) of the Act are the death, disability or relocation of the consumer. Examples of material changes in the circumstances of the supplier provided in s. 25(4) are failure to complete the services within the time specified in the contract, unavailability of the services due to discontinuance or substantial change in operation of the supplier, and relocation of the supplier by more than 30 kilometres.
Notice of cancellation
Under s. 54 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, a consumer (or supplier) may give a notice of cancellation by any means that permits a person to prove that they cancelled the contract on a specific date, including delivering the notice in person, or by registered mail, email or fax to the appropriate address or number in the contract.
If the notice of cancellation is given other than by personal delivery, it is deemed to have been given at the time it was sent.
Information gathering
Obtain all the facts surrounding the contract, including details from the client and copies of all the documents. Specifically, find out:
the date the agreement was made,
the value of the contract, and
whether any oral representations were made by the seller aside from the written contract.
Solving the problem
Before focusing specifically on the common law or statutory rights of cancellation, consider if there are any other applicable remedies that would support negotiation for cancellation. For example, if there was unfairness in the making of the contract, there may be additional rights under the common law or the statute law, such as in the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act.
If the consumer’s right to cancel falls under the common law, either you or the consumer should approach the seller as soon as possible. Discuss with the consumer in advance what kind of cancellation arrangement they wish to make (for example, full refund of payment, exchange for another product, or a credit note for future purchases).
If the consumer’s right to cancel falls under one of the statutory provisions of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, then proper written notice should be given within the time limits. Since this right of cancellation is given by statute beyond rights in common law, a court probably cannot extend the time for giving notice of cancellation.
After a consumer gives notice of cancellation, the Act sets out detailed rights and responsibilities for:
returning the goods to the seller,
the amount of time for refunding money paid by the consumer under the contract,
returning items traded in as part of the contract, and
cancelling any related credit agreement.
Related topics and materials
See the other sections under contracts:
Contracts Overview
Contract Defences
Contract Remedies
Contracts Made by Minors
See related topics:
Misleading Advertising
See also People’s Law School’s pages on contracts.
{{Consumer and Debt Law Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Consumer and Debt Law
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Opting Out and Cooling-off Periods

2018-06-13T19:12:39Z

Drew:

{{REVIEWEDPLS | reviewer = [[Alison Ward]]|date= June 2018}}{{Consumer and Debt Law TOC}}

{{ambox
| type = content
| small = center
| image =
| smallimage =
| textstyle =
| text = This page is in the process of being updated. Please check back shortly. 
| smalltext =
}}

== Client problems ==

* Client entered into a contract for goods or services and now wants out of the contract, even though there is nothing wrong with what the client bought.
* Client heard they had 10 days to take goods back to a store, but the store will not accept the goods.

== Summary of the law ==
If there is no fault in a contract between a seller and a buyer, consumers generally do not have the right to change their mind and get out of the contract. There either must be a reason to get out of the contract, such as the goods being unsatisfactory, or one of the exceptions explained below must apply.

If there is no reason, the only way to get out of the contract is if the seller agrees. If this is the case, the consumer and the seller are actually making a new agreement—to let the consumer out of the old agreement.

=== Common law exceptions ===
The consumer may be able to get out of a contract if the contract specified the consumer could choose to do so. For example, some department stores advertise that they allow consumers to return any product purchased at the store. In law, the promise in the advertisement would probably be considered a term of every sale contract the store makes (see the [[Contracts Overview|contracts overview]]). Or, a seller may promise a particular consumer they could return a product or the contract could be cancelled.

Promises stated clearly in a contract are called “explicit terms”. The parties specifically discuss and agree to such explicit terms. Other promises that allow a contract to be cancelled might be “implied” terms. For example, if a store displays a sign reading “No Refunds—Only Exchanges”, it could be argued this gives the buyer an additional contractual right of exchange, regardless of the quality of the product, since the consumer already has the legal right to return goods that are fundamentally defective.

There may be either explicit or implicit limits, or both, on the contractual right of exchange. There may also be time limits. For example, some stores advertise that the consumer has a limited number of days to bring any goods back for a refund. If there is no time limit specified, the law would probably say the consumer has a reasonable time to ask for the refund. The law does not have a set definition for “reasonable time”. It varies depending on, for example, what was bought, where it was bought, and what the implied terms of the contract were.

There may also be limits arising from the consumer’s use of the product. For example, a store may advertise that it accepts returns as long as the product is, essentially, unused. If there is no explicit term regarding use, the law would probably say that the product has to be resalable as new or near-new before the consumer could ask for a refund.
=== Statutory exceptions ===
The ''[http://canlii.ca/t/84mr Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act]'' gives consumers some rights to cancel certain contracts, beyond the general rights in common law.

Refer to sections 17 to 56 of the Act and the Consumer Contracts Regulation for specifics. Here are some general guidelines.

==== Door-to-door sales ====

Many consumers believe they can only cancel door-to-door sales contracts. However, the terms of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act actually apply to a wider range of transactions. The Act’s cancellation provisions apply to “direct sales contracts”—contracts for goods and services entered into in person at a place other than the supplier’s permanent place of business. This covers door-to-door sales and other situations.
If a direct seller makes a sale somewhere other than a permanent place of business, s. 21(1) says a consumer has 10 days after the date that the consumer receives the contract to cancel the contract (longer in some instances). This means that if a consumer receives a copy of a direct sales contract on February 1, for example, the consumer has up to and including February 11 to cancel.
A consumer may cancel a direct sales contract not later than one year after the date the consumer receives a copy of the contract if:
the contract does not meet the content requirements set out in the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act,
the supplier was under a direct sales prohibition order at the time the contract was made, or
the goods or services were not supplied within 30 days of the supply date.
Distance sales contracts
The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, in s. 17, defines distance sales contracts as contracts for the supply of goods and services that are not entered into in person, and, in the case of goods, where the consumer does not have an opportunity to inspect the goods at the time the contract is entered into (for example, online purchases or catalogue sales).
A consumer has the right to cancel a distance sales contract no later than seven days after receiving a copy of it if the contract does not comply with the requirements for contracts in electronic form or otherwise comply with the content requirements of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act. A consumer has up to 30 days to cancel a distance sales contract if the supplier does not supply the consumer with a copy of the contract within 15 days of the contract being made.
If a supplier fails to deliver the goods or services within 30 days of the supply date in the contract, the consumer may cancel the contract. If no supply date was specified in the contract and the supplier does not deliver the goods or services within 30 days, the consumer has the right to cancel 30 days from the date the contract was entered into.
Future performance contracts and continuing service contracts
Future performance contracts are defined in s. 17 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act as contracts for the supply of goods or services for which the supply or payment in full is not made at the time the contract is executed. Continuing service contracts are future performance contracts that provide for the performance of services on a continuing basis. Examples of continuing service contracts are gym memberships and dance lesson contracts.
A consumer has the right to cancel a future performance contract no later than one year after the date the consumer receives a copy of the contract if the contract does not contain the information required by the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, such as the supply date, the amount of each periodic payment, etc.
A consumer may cancel a continuing service contract no later than 10 days after receiving a copy of the contract, or at any time if there has been a material change in the circumstances of the consumer or the supplier. Examples of material changes in the circumstances of the consumer provided in s. 25(3) of the Act are the death, disability or relocation of the consumer. Examples of material changes in the circumstances of the supplier provided in s. 25(4) are failure to complete the services within the time specified in the contract, unavailability of the services due to discontinuance or substantial change in operation of the supplier, and relocation of the supplier by more than 30 kilometres.
Notice of cancellation
Under s. 54 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, a consumer (or supplier) may give a notice of cancellation by any means that permits a person to prove that they cancelled the contract on a specific date, including delivering the notice in person, or by registered mail, email or fax to the appropriate address or number in the contract.
If the notice of cancellation is given other than by personal delivery, it is deemed to have been given at the time it was sent.
Information gathering
Obtain all the facts surrounding the contract, including details from the client and copies of all the documents. Specifically, find out:
the date the agreement was made,
the value of the contract, and
whether any oral representations were made by the seller aside from the written contract.
Solving the problem
Before focusing specifically on the common law or statutory rights of cancellation, consider if there are any other applicable remedies that would support negotiation for cancellation. For example, if there was unfairness in the making of the contract, there may be additional rights under the common law or the statute law, such as in the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act.
If the consumer’s right to cancel falls under the common law, either you or the consumer should approach the seller as soon as possible. Discuss with the consumer in advance what kind of cancellation arrangement they wish to make (for example, full refund of payment, exchange for another product, or a credit note for future purchases).
If the consumer’s right to cancel falls under one of the statutory provisions of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, then proper written notice should be given within the time limits. Since this right of cancellation is given by statute beyond rights in common law, a court probably cannot extend the time for giving notice of cancellation.
After a consumer gives notice of cancellation, the Act sets out detailed rights and responsibilities for:
returning the goods to the seller,
the amount of time for refunding money paid by the consumer under the contract,
returning items traded in as part of the contract, and
cancelling any related credit agreement.
Related topics and materials
See the other sections under contracts:
Contracts Overview
Contract Defences
Contract Remedies
Contracts Made by Minors
See related topics:
Misleading Advertising
See also People’s Law School’s pages on contracts.
{{Consumer and Debt Law Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Consumer and Debt Law
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Opting Out and Cooling-off Periods

2018-06-13T19:10:16Z

Drew:

{{REVIEWEDPLS | reviewer = [[Alison Ward]]|date= June 2018}}{{Consumer and Debt Law TOC}}

{{ambox
| type = content
| small = center
| image =
| smallimage =
| textstyle =
| text = This page is in the process of being updated. Please check back shortly. 
| smalltext =
}}

== Client problems ==

* Client entered into a contract for goods or services and now wants out of the contract, even though there is nothing wrong with what the client bought.
* Client heard they had 10 days to take goods back to a store, but the store will not accept the goods.

== Summary of the law ==
If there is no fault in a contract between a seller and a buyer, consumers generally do not have the right to change their mind and get out of the contract. There either must be a reason to get out of the contract, such as the goods being unsatisfactory, or one of the exceptions explained below must apply.

If there is no reason, the only way to get out of the contract is if the seller agrees. If this is the case, the consumer and the seller are actually making a new agreement—to let the consumer out of the old agreement.

=== Common law exceptions ===
The consumer may be able to get out of a contract if the contract specified the consumer could choose to do so. For example, some department stores advertise that they allow consumers to return any product purchased at the store. In law, the promise in the advertisement would probably be considered a term of every sale contract the store makes (see the [[Contracts Overview|contracts overview]]). Or, a seller may promise a particular consumer they could return a product or the contract could be cancelled.

Promises stated clearly in a contract are called “explicit terms”. The parties specifically discuss and agree to such explicit terms. Other promises that allow a contract to be cancelled might be “implied” terms. For example, if a store displays a sign reading “No Refunds—Only Exchanges”, it could be argued this gives the buyer an additional contractual right of exchange, regardless of the quality of the product, since the consumer already has the legal right to return goods that are fundamentally defective.
There may be either explicit or implicit limits, or both, on the contractual right of exchange. There may also be time limits. For example, some stores advertise that the consumer has a limited number of days to bring any goods back for a refund. If there is no time limit specified, the law would probably say the consumer has a reasonable time to ask for the refund. The law does not have a set definition for “reasonable time”. It varies depending on, for example, what was bought, where it was bought, and what the implied terms of the contract were.
There may also be limits arising from the consumer’s use of the product. For example, a store may advertise that it accepts returns as long as the product is, essentially, unused. If there is no explicit term regarding use, the law would probably say that the product has to be resalable as new or near-new before the consumer could ask for a refund.
Statutory exceptions
The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act gives consumers some rights to cancel certain contracts, beyond the general rights in common law.
Refer to sections 17 to 56 of the Act and the Consumer Contracts Regulation for specifics. Here are some general guidelines.
Door-to-door sales
Many consumers believe they can only cancel door-to-door sales contracts. However, the terms of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act actually apply to a wider range of transactions. The Act’s cancellation provisions apply to “direct sales contracts”—contracts for goods and services entered into in person at a place other than the supplier’s permanent place of business. This covers door-to-door sales and other situations.
If a direct seller makes a sale somewhere other than a permanent place of business, s. 21(1) says a consumer has 10 days after the date that the consumer receives the contract to cancel the contract (longer in some instances). This means that if a consumer receives a copy of a direct sales contract on February 1, for example, the consumer has up to and including February 11 to cancel.
A consumer may cancel a direct sales contract not later than one year after the date the consumer receives a copy of the contract if:
the contract does not meet the content requirements set out in the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act,
the supplier was under a direct sales prohibition order at the time the contract was made, or
the goods or services were not supplied within 30 days of the supply date.
Distance sales contracts
The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, in s. 17, defines distance sales contracts as contracts for the supply of goods and services that are not entered into in person, and, in the case of goods, where the consumer does not have an opportunity to inspect the goods at the time the contract is entered into (for example, online purchases or catalogue sales).
A consumer has the right to cancel a distance sales contract no later than seven days after receiving a copy of it if the contract does not comply with the requirements for contracts in electronic form or otherwise comply with the content requirements of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act. A consumer has up to 30 days to cancel a distance sales contract if the supplier does not supply the consumer with a copy of the contract within 15 days of the contract being made.
If a supplier fails to deliver the goods or services within 30 days of the supply date in the contract, the consumer may cancel the contract. If no supply date was specified in the contract and the supplier does not deliver the goods or services within 30 days, the consumer has the right to cancel 30 days from the date the contract was entered into.
Future performance contracts and continuing service contracts
Future performance contracts are defined in s. 17 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act as contracts for the supply of goods or services for which the supply or payment in full is not made at the time the contract is executed. Continuing service contracts are future performance contracts that provide for the performance of services on a continuing basis. Examples of continuing service contracts are gym memberships and dance lesson contracts.
A consumer has the right to cancel a future performance contract no later than one year after the date the consumer receives a copy of the contract if the contract does not contain the information required by the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, such as the supply date, the amount of each periodic payment, etc.
A consumer may cancel a continuing service contract no later than 10 days after receiving a copy of the contract, or at any time if there has been a material change in the circumstances of the consumer or the supplier. Examples of material changes in the circumstances of the consumer provided in s. 25(3) of the Act are the death, disability or relocation of the consumer. Examples of material changes in the circumstances of the supplier provided in s. 25(4) are failure to complete the services within the time specified in the contract, unavailability of the services due to discontinuance or substantial change in operation of the supplier, and relocation of the supplier by more than 30 kilometres.
Notice of cancellation
Under s. 54 of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, a consumer (or supplier) may give a notice of cancellation by any means that permits a person to prove that they cancelled the contract on a specific date, including delivering the notice in person, or by registered mail, email or fax to the appropriate address or number in the contract.
If the notice of cancellation is given other than by personal delivery, it is deemed to have been given at the time it was sent.
Information gathering
Obtain all the facts surrounding the contract, including details from the client and copies of all the documents. Specifically, find out:
the date the agreement was made,
the value of the contract, and
whether any oral representations were made by the seller aside from the written contract.
Solving the problem
Before focusing specifically on the common law or statutory rights of cancellation, consider if there are any other applicable remedies that would support negotiation for cancellation. For example, if there was unfairness in the making of the contract, there may be additional rights under the common law or the statute law, such as in the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act.
If the consumer’s right to cancel falls under the common law, either you or the consumer should approach the seller as soon as possible. Discuss with the consumer in advance what kind of cancellation arrangement they wish to make (for example, full refund of payment, exchange for another product, or a credit note for future purchases).
If the consumer’s right to cancel falls under one of the statutory provisions of the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, then proper written notice should be given within the time limits. Since this right of cancellation is given by statute beyond rights in common law, a court probably cannot extend the time for giving notice of cancellation.
After a consumer gives notice of cancellation, the Act sets out detailed rights and responsibilities for:
returning the goods to the seller,
the amount of time for refunding money paid by the consumer under the contract,
returning items traded in as part of the contract, and
cancelling any related credit agreement.
Related topics and materials
See the other sections under contracts:
Contracts Overview
Contract Defences
Contract Remedies
Contracts Made by Minors
See related topics:
Misleading Advertising
See also People’s Law School’s pages on contracts.
{{Consumer and Debt Law Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Consumer and Debt Law
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Opting Out and Cooling-off Periods

2018-06-13T19:04:07Z

Drew: Created page with "{{REVIEWEDPLS | reviewer = Alison Ward|date= June 2018}}{{Consumer and Debt Law TOC}} {{ambox | type = content | small = center | image = | smallimage =..."

Drew Jackson

2016-11-30T02:01:40Z

Drew:

<noinclude>{{Template:Clicklaw Wikibooks Contributor}}</noinclude>{{Contributor
| bio = '''Drew Jackson''' is a lawyer & librarian in Vancouver, BC. He is passionate about making legal information more accessible and understandable. Drew has extensive experience in developing legal publications and programs for the public and the legal community, and in using technologies for publishing and learning. While working with [[Courthouse Libraries BC]], he led the creation of Clicklaw Wikibooks. He now works as a Legal Content Developer with [[People's Law School]] and on freelance projects that help people understand the law.

| name = Drew Jackson
| image = [[image:drewjackson.jpg|150px|left|link=|Drew Jackson]]
| organization = Creator of Clicklaw Wikibooks
| website = [http://www.artofresearch.ca more info]
}}

<noinclude>
__NOGLOSSARY__
[[Category:Contributor Bio|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2012 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2013 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:Clicklaw Wikibooks Advisory Committee (2015)|Jackson]]
[[Category:JP Boyd on Family Law Advisory Committee (2013)|Jackson]]

</noinclude>

Drew Jackson

2016-11-30T02:00:55Z

Drew:

<noinclude>{{Template:Clicklaw Wikibooks Contributor}}</noinclude>{{Contributor
| bio = '''Drew Jackson''' is a lawyer & librarian in Vancouver, BC. He is passionate about making legal information more accessible and understandable. Drew has extensive experience in developing legal publications and programs for the public and the legal community, and in using technologies for publishing and learning. While working with Courthouse Libraries BC, he led the creation of Clicklaw Wikibooks. He now works as a Legal Content Developer with People’s Law School and on freelance projects that help people understand the law.

| name = Drew Jackson
| image = [[image:drewjackson.jpg|150px|left|link=|Drew Jackson]]
| organization = Creator of Clicklaw Wikibooks
| website = [http://www.artofresearch.ca more info]
}}

<noinclude>
__NOGLOSSARY__
[[Category:Contributor Bio|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2012 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2013 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:Clicklaw Wikibooks Advisory Committee (2015)|Jackson]]
[[Category:JP Boyd on Family Law Advisory Committee (2013)|Jackson]]

</noinclude>

Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC

2016-11-30T01:57:32Z

Drew:

{{DEMOWARNING}}{{Cover Thumbnail
|filename =
|title = ''Transitioning an Existing Society''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}}
{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Being_an_Executor
}}
Aimed at those who work at a non-profit society in British Columbia or sit on a board of directors, '''''Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC''''' covers the steps in transitioning a society under the new ''Societies Act''.

== Contents ==

==Copyright & Disclaimer==

[[File:Creativecommonssmall.png|link=Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|alt=Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]] ''Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC'' © [[Drew Jackson]] is licensed under a Creative Commons [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]].

The information is produced for educational purposes and is not intended as legal advice. If you need advice about a specific legal problem, please contact a legal professional. Some sources of legal help are highlighted in the "[[Further Help with the New Societies Act|Further help]]" section.

{{Transitioning an Existing Society Navbox}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC

2016-11-30T01:56:34Z

Drew: Created page with "{{DEMOWARNING}}{{Cover Thumbnail |filename = Being an Executor full cover image.png |title = ''Transitioning an Existing Society''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}} {{Export_Badge..."

{{DEMOWARNING}}{{Cover Thumbnail
|filename = Being an Executor full cover image.png
|title = ''Transitioning an Existing Society''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}}
{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Being_an_Executor
}}
Aimed at those who work at a non-profit society in British Columbia or sit on a board of directors, '''''Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC''''' covers the steps in transitioning a society under the new ''Societies Act''.

== Contents ==

==Copyright & Disclaimer==

[[File:Creativecommonssmall.png|link=Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|alt=Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]] ''Being an Executor'' © [[Drew Jackson]] is licensed under a Creative Commons [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]].

The information is produced for educational purposes and is not intended as legal advice. If you need advice about a specific legal problem, please contact a legal professional. Some sources of legal help are highlighted in the "[[Further Help with the New Societies Act|Further help]]" section.

{{Transitioning an Existing Society Navbox}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Template:Transitioning an Existing Society TOC

2016-11-30T01:48:19Z

Drew: Adding a new publication, Transitioning an Existing Society

{{Sidebar
|name = Transitioning an Existing Society TOC
|outertitle =
|topimage =
|pretitle =
|title = [[Transitioning an Existing Society|Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC]]
|image = [[image:Being an Executor full cover image.png|60px|left|link=Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC]]This page is from the publication '''''Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC'''''. See the [[Transitioning an Existing Society: A How-to Guide for Non-profits in BC|full contents]].

|headingstyle = border-top:1px solid #CCCCCC; padding-top:1px;
|contentstyle = text-align: center;

|heading1 = Contents
|content1 = [[Being Asked to Be an Executor]] [[Ten Steps to Being an Executor|Ten Steps to Being an Executor]] [[Probating the Will]] [[Where to Get Help for Being an Executor| Where to Get Help]] [[Glossary for Being an Executor | Glossary]] [[About Being an Executor| About this Publication]]
‎
|heading2 = From
|content2 = Visit other wikibooks from [[People's Law School]] [[image:Peopleslawschoollogo-horizontal.jpg|120px|center|People's Law School|link=People's Law School]]
}}
<noinclude>[[Category:Exclude in print|!]]</noinclude>

I Want to Write a Will

2016-06-06T18:16:55Z

Drew:

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| text = '''Alert:''' Extensive changes to the law in BC relating to wills came into force on March 31, 2014. The Ministry of Justice provides answers to [http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/about-bcs-justice-system/legislation-policy/legislation-updates/wills-estates-and-succession-act-and-new-probate-rules common questions on the new law], called the ''Wills, Estates and Succession Act'' (WESA).
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A will is a legal document that takes effect upon your death. The main purpose of a will is to say who will get your property (land and personal possessions) when you die. If you are the sole guardian of a child or children, a will can be used to name a new guardian at the time of your death.

A will should also appoint an executor — a person who will ensure your debts are paid, your property is protected and your wishes are carried out.

== First steps ==
#Make a list of your property (land, vehicles and other possessions).
#Decide who you want as an executor of the will. You should also consider naming an alternate in case your first choice is unable to act as executor or complete the job.
#Speak to a lawyer or get a self-help guide. A good one is the ''Write Your Legal Will in 3 Easy Steps'' from the Self-Counsel Press. It is available at most Service BC (Government Agent) offices and many bookstores and public libraries. The People's Law School has an excellent online booklet, ''[[Writing Your Will]]''.

{{Tipsbox
| width = 75%
| tips = The law about wills and estates can be quite complicated, so it is always best to get advice from a lawyer or notary about your will. However, if you can’t get advice from a lawyer, it is better to write a will using a self-help guide than to not have a will at all.
}}

== What happens next ==
Your will needs to be witnessed by two or more persons who are age 19 or older. You should not have your will witnessed by a person you are giving a gift to under it, or his or her spouse. (Ordinarily, a gift to a witness or his or her spouse is invalid, in which case the person you intend to benefit will lose the gift.) You must sign your will at its end in front of the witnesses, who must be present at the same time. The witnesses must also sign your will as witnesses in front of you and in front of each other.

You need to store the original in a place where it will be safe. It is a good idea to let your executor know where you will be storing your will. You may also wish to give your executor a copy of it.

Finally, you should file a [http://www.vs.gov.bc.ca/forms/vsa531_fill.pdf Wills Notice] with the BC Vital Statistics Agency. The form can be picked up at most Service BC (Government Agent) offices or completed online at [http://www.vs.gov.bc.ca/forms/ Vital Statistics Agency Application Forms]; scroll down to "Wills" and click on "Application for Filing a Wills Notice." The fee is $17. When you die, your executor is required to do a search for any wills notices in the Vital Statistics Registry.

== Where to get help ==
See the [[Resource List for Legal Help for British Columbians|Resource List]] in this Guide for a list of helpful resources. Your best bets are:
*[[Vital Statistics Agency]].
*[[Access Pro Bono]], [[Lawyer Referral Service]], and [[Private Bar Lawyers|private bar lawyers]].
* The Legal Services Society publication "[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/2515 Writing Your Own Will: A Guide for First Nations People Living On Reserve]" and the Clicklaw common question "[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/question/commonquestion/1114 Is a will different for people who live on reserve?]" for additional resources about wills for Aboriginal people.
* Clicklaw for more resources under the common question "[http://clicklaw.bc.ca/question/commonquestion/1147 How do I make a will?]"

Before meeting with a lawyer or advocate, complete the form [[Preparing for Your Interview]] included in this Guide. Make sure you bring copies of all documents relating to your case.

{{Tipsbox
| width = 90%
| tips = The law about wills is somewhat different if you are a registered Indian ordinarily resident on an Indian reserve. You can write a ''holographic will'' (one that does not require witnesses); however this will may not be legal if you do not reside on reserve at the time of your death. There are also restrictions under the ''Indian Act'' about to whom you can leave your land on reserve. The procedure for probating a will or administering an estate is also different. An Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada Estates Officer can provide information about estates on reserve. Toll-free: 1-888-917-9977.
}}

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[Stan Rule]], November 2015}}

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I Want to Write a Will

2016-06-06T18:16:04Z

Drew:

{{Template:Legal Help Guide TOC}}
{{ambox
| type = content
| small = center
| image =
| smallimage =
| textstyle =
| text = '''Alert:''' Extensive changes to the law in BC relating to wills came into force on March 31, 2014. The Ministry of Justice provides answers to [http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/about-bcs-justice-system/legislation-policy/legislation-updates/wills-estates-and-succession-act-and-new-probate-rules common questions on the new law], called the ''Wills, Estates and Succession Act'' (WESA).
| smalltext =
}}
A will is a legal document that takes effect upon your death. The main purpose of a will is to say who will get your property (land and personal possessions) when you die. If you are the sole guardian of a child or children, a will can be used to name a new guardian at the time of your death.

A will should also appoint an executor — a person who will ensure your debts are paid, your property is protected and your wishes are carried out.

== First steps ==
#Make a list of your property (land, vehicles and other possessions).
#Decide who you want as an executor of the will. You should also consider naming an alternate in case your first choice is unable to act as executor or complete the job.
#Speak to a lawyer or get a self-help guide. A good one is the ''Write Your Legal Will in 3 Easy Steps'' from the Self-Counsel Press. It is available at most Service BC (Government Agent) offices and many bookstores and public libraries. The People's Law School has an excellent online booklet, "[[Writing Your Will]]".

{{Tipsbox
| width = 75%
| tips = The law about wills and estates can be quite complicated, so it is always best to get advice from a lawyer or notary about your will. However, if you can’t get advice from a lawyer, it is better to write a will using a self-help guide than to not have a will at all.
}}

== What happens next ==
Your will needs to be witnessed by two or more persons who are age 19 or older. You should not have your will witnessed by a person you are giving a gift to under it, or his or her spouse. (Ordinarily, a gift to a witness or his or her spouse is invalid, in which case the person you intend to benefit will lose the gift.) You must sign your will at its end in front of the witnesses, who must be present at the same time. The witnesses must also sign your will as witnesses in front of you and in front of each other.

You need to store the original in a place where it will be safe. It is a good idea to let your executor know where you will be storing your will. You may also wish to give your executor a copy of it.

Finally, you should file a [http://www.vs.gov.bc.ca/forms/vsa531_fill.pdf Wills Notice] with the BC Vital Statistics Agency. The form can be picked up at most Service BC (Government Agent) offices or completed online at [http://www.vs.gov.bc.ca/forms/ Vital Statistics Agency Application Forms]; scroll down to "Wills" and click on "Application for Filing a Wills Notice." The fee is $17. When you die, your executor is required to do a search for any wills notices in the Vital Statistics Registry.

== Where to get help ==
See the [[Resource List for Legal Help for British Columbians|Resource List]] in this Guide for a list of helpful resources. Your best bets are:
*[[Vital Statistics Agency]].
*[[Access Pro Bono]], [[Lawyer Referral Service]], and [[Private Bar Lawyers|private bar lawyers]].
* The Legal Services Society publication "[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/2515 Writing Your Own Will: A Guide for First Nations People Living On Reserve]" and the Clicklaw common question "[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/question/commonquestion/1114 Is a will different for people who live on reserve?]" for additional resources about wills for Aboriginal people.
* Clicklaw for more resources under the common question "[http://clicklaw.bc.ca/question/commonquestion/1147 How do I make a will?]"

Before meeting with a lawyer or advocate, complete the form [[Preparing for Your Interview]] included in this Guide. Make sure you bring copies of all documents relating to your case.

{{Tipsbox
| width = 90%
| tips = The law about wills is somewhat different if you are a registered Indian ordinarily resident on an Indian reserve. You can write a ''holographic will'' (one that does not require witnesses); however this will may not be legal if you do not reside on reserve at the time of your death. There are also restrictions under the ''Indian Act'' about to whom you can leave your land on reserve. The procedure for probating a will or administering an estate is also different. An Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada Estates Officer can provide information about estates on reserve. Toll-free: 1-888-917-9977.
}}

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[Stan Rule]], November 2015}}

{{Template:Legal Help Guide Navbox|type=problems}}

{{Creative Commons for Legal Help Guide}}

Older People and the Law

2015-11-02T22:55:15Z

Drew: /* Where to go for help */

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Elder Law Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
Elder law covers the laws that affect older people.

==Retirement and government benefits==
[[File:Elderly group at cafe.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

The federal government manages two major public pension programs through Service Canada:
*Old Age Security (OAS), based on years of living in Canada, and
*Canada Pension Plan (CPP), based on years of work in Canada and the amount paid into the plan.

===Old Age Security===

The Old Age Security (OAS) provides pension benefits to citizens and legal residents of Canada who have lived in the country for 10 or more years as an adult (after turning 18). The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is an additional monthly benefit paid to Canadian residents who receive Old Age Security pension and have little or no other income.

Apply for Old Age Security benefits six months before you turn 65. For help in making an application, contact your local Service Canada office, or agencies that help seniors in your community.

===Canada Pension Plan ===

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) provides income to working Canadians after they retire. The amount of pension income you receive depends on the amount you paid in to the fund from your wages over the years you worked in Canada.

You receive CPP retirement benefits, which is a monthly cheque mailed to you or deposited directly into your bank account, if you have contributed and:
*you are 60-64 years old and have stopped working or have a low income, or
*you are 65 years or older.

In Canada, people have a right to keep working after age 65.

If you work past age 65, you can be receiving CPP benefits at the same time.

You can also continue paying in to CPP until age 70; this will increase the amount you receive in retirement benefits.

CPP gives pension benefits to people who are not able to work because they had an accident, were injured or became ill. This is called a disability pension. If a worker dies, CPP has benefits for the family.

===How do I apply? ===

To apply for OAS, the GIC supplement, CPP benefits and for more information on federal government programs, contact:

:'''Service Canada'''
:For service in English: 1-800-277-9914
:For service in French: 1-800-277-9915
:Hearing or speech impairment: 1-800-255-4786
:Website: [http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca www.servicecanada.gc.ca]

Have your Social Insurance Number ready when you call.

===International benefits===

If you have lived and worked in another country, you may be eligible for social security benefits, either from that country or from Canada.

For information on how to apply for international benefits, contact:

:'''International Benefits Program'''
:Telephone: 1-613-957-1954
:Fax: 1-613-952-8901
:Toll-free in Canada and the United States: 1-800-454-8731
:TTY in Canada and the United States: 1-800-255-4786

Always have your Social Insurance Number ready when you call.

==Power of attorney ==

A ''power of attorney'' (POA) is a legal document that names another person, called the "attorney," to manage your financial, business and legal matters for you, but ''not'' health care decisions. The person who gives the power of attorney to someone is called a ''donor''.

:'''Note''': In this section, the word "attorney" does not refer to a lawyer. It refers to someone who has power of attorney.

The person you name as your attorney must act in the way you have instructed. It is important for the attorney to understand their duties and responsibilities. It may be a crime under the ''[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2 Criminal Code]'' if an attorney fails to carry out their duties.

===Who should I choose? ===

You should choose a trusted friend, a relative or your lawyer to act for you. You can have one or two people act as your attorney(s). The people who act as your attorney(s) can act together, or one or the other attorney can be named as an ''alternate''. This will help make sure your wishes are followed.

Choose your attorney very carefully and ask for a regular report on how they manage your finances or business.

You can still handle your own affairs after you appoint an attorney or attorney(s). You can cancel (revoke) an old power of attorney at any time and make a new one with different attorney(s).

===Four different types of power of attorney ===

There are four different types of power of attorney.

Which one you choose depends on your needs.
#regular power of attorney,
#enduring power of attorney,
#springing power of attorney, and
#limited power of attorney.

====Regular power of attorney ====
[[File:Elderly single man headshot.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

In a regular POA, the power you give an attorney may be ''specific'' or general.

When you give a specific power of attorney, it means you give this person the power to do certain things only. For example, you may want them to do your banking when you’re out of town on vacation.

When you give a general power of attorney, it means you give this person the power to manage all your financial and legal affairs. They are to follow your wishes and instructions.

A regular power of attorney ends if you become ''mentally incapable''. Mentally incapable is a legal term that means not being able to understand what you are doing and what might happen as a result.

You can be incapable in one area of decision-making, yet still be able to manage your life in other areas. For example, you may be able to decide where to live and what kind of health services you want, but not be able to manage your finances.

People can make bad decisions and not be mentally incapable. The test is whether they understand what they are doing.

====Enduring power of attorney ====

An ''enduring power of attorney'' continues if you become mentally incapable.

You can cancel your enduring power of attorney at any time while you are mentally capable.

You cannot cancel an enduring power of attorney if you are mentally incapable.

The attorney must follow your instructions. The attorney must act in your best interests and consider what your wishes would be.

In your enduring power of attorney you say when you want it to start. You may want it to start right away. Or you may want it to start ''only'' if you become mentally incapable. (In this case, it becomes a ''springing power of attorney'', which is discussed next.)

====Springing power of attorney ====

A springing POA comes into effect only when a specific event happens. An event might be if you have a car accident, or become ill, or become mentally incapable.

A springing power of attorney must say:
*what event will start it, and
*how people will know without a doubt that the event has happened.

====Limited power of attorney ====
In a ''limited power of attorney'', you say exactly what action your attorney can take, and put a time limit on when the power of attorney ends.

For example, suppose you are travelling in another country, and you need someone to go to the bank in person to move some funds. You can give your attorney permission to do this and set a time limit. For example, the attorney must move the funds within five days of the start of a new month.

A limited POA ends when the action is completed or when the time limit has passed.

===If you have worries about your attorney ===

Attorney(s) have a duty to act in your best interests and follow your wishes. But some attorneys ''misuse'' their power. They might take funds out of your bank account without your permission. Or they might sell what you own and use the money for themselves. This is financial abuse and it happens to many people, especially seniors.

If you are worried about your power of attorney agreement or want to name someone else as your attorney, you can end the agreement as long as you are mentally capable.

Talk to a lawyer for help and advice, or contact one of the agencies listed at the end of the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

==Joint bank accounts ==

A joint bank account is held by two or more people. Any person whose name is on the joint bank account can put money into the bank account and take money out of the bank account.

Sometimes people put their bank account into joint names with a friend or relative so that the other person can help with banking, shopping and taking out cash for spending. But any person named on the account can use all of the funds as their own and take out all the money. So joint accounts can be dangerous.

As a safer option, you can apply to have your bank pay monthly bills from your account for you. You can also ask the government to have your pension and other cheques deposited directly into your bank account. The bank will send you a monthly statement so that you know all the activity in your account. There might be a small cost, but many banks have low or no fees for services to seniors.

You can also open a second, smaller bank account. You can ask the bank to regularly move funds from your main account into the second account to pay for what you need each month. The person who is helping you with banking and shopping can withdraw money from this account but not the main account. The main account stays in your name only.

Talk to your bank manager for more ideas on keeping your money safe.

==Representation agreements ==
[[File:Showing elderly woman paper.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

A representation agreement allows the person you name as your representative to make personal and health care decisions for you.

There are two types of representation agreements:
*standard representation agreements, and
*enhanced representation agreements.

''Standard representation agreements'' give limited authority to the representative you name to make some health and routine financial decisions for you.

Standard representation agreements do not allow a representative to make decisions about end-of-life care.

If you are incapable of entering into a contract or managing your affairs, you can make a standard representation agreement as long as you can express your wishes, and you understand the effects of a representation agreement.

''Enhanced representation agreements'' give more responsibility to your representative over health care and personal decisions. Your representative might even decide if you will or will not receive medical services necessary to continue life.

To make an enhanced representation agreement, you need to have full mental capacity. Under an enhanced representation agreement, the representative has no authority over financial decisions.

===Who should I choose to be my representative? ===

Choose someone you know well and trust. Make sure they know your wishes. As your representative, they must respect those wishes, now and in the future, especially if you can’t speak for yourself.

==Advance directives ==

In an advance directive you can write instructions to your representative or to your doctor about what kind of health care you want and don’t want if you have a serious medical condition.

Advance directives often deal with end-of-life decisions. Some people use the term "living will" when talking about an advance directive.

Instructions in your advance directive can be:
*general statements such as: I don't want to be connected to machines to stay alive, or
*specific statements such as: I don't want to receive donated blood.

An advance directive ensures that your wishes are followed even if you are not able to speak for yourself due to an injury or illness. Keep your advance directive updated. For example, there might be improvements in medicine you wish to consider.

A possible difficulty with advance directives is that your wishes may change over time. Remember to renew and update your advance directive from time to time.

==Protecting yourself and your money ==

When you are a senior, sometimes people try to take advantage of you. It is important to protect yourself and your money.

Criminals use a variety of methods to trick people and take their money. Older people are often the target of these criminal tricks.

Sometimes the criminals take money. Other times, they use your personal information to access your bank accounts or run up debts in your name. This is called identity theft, which means taking your personal information and using your identity.

Be careful with your personal information, which includes your name, address, phone number and date of birth. Be careful when throwing away credit card statements and grocery receipts. Tear the receipts up or put them through a paper shredder, as criminals may go through the trash and use the statements and receipts to find information about you.

Never give out your Canada Social Insurance Number, credit card numbers, or bank account information to someone you don’t know and trust. Keep your passwords and bank cards separate.

If you write down your passwords, make sure you store the password in a safe place. Don’t keep passwords in your wallet. Never give out personal information on the telephone or by email. If someone is asking questions they may be trying to learn your personal information.

A bank will never ask for personal information or passwords over the phone unless you call them and the bank asks you to prove your identity. A bank will never email you and ask for your passwords or the numbers for debit or credit cards.

Phone calls saying you have won a vacation, or money, and asking you to enter in your phone number are not real contests. It is not safe to give these callers your personal information.

If you have caller ID on your phone, you can look to see if the number belongs to someone you know. If the number is not familiar, you can let the phone ring and ignore the call.

You can also register for the National Do Not Call List to reduce calls from people and companies trying to sell you things. Visit [http://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/index-eng www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/index-eng] for more information on how to register a phone number for the National Do Not Call List.

If you have a problem, see the resources listed in the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section. Remember, if an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

==Know what you're signing ==

Talk to a legal advisor or a lawyer before you sign any legal documents.
*Signing a document means you agree to everything that’s written in the document.
*Don’t sign anything that you don’t understand.

==Wills and estates ==
[[File:Stock will and testament.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

Everything you own at the time of your death is called your estate. Homes, bank accounts, investment accounts, jewelry and cars can all be part of your estate. If you have debt when you die, what you owe is part of your estate.

A ''will'' is a written legal document that contains your instructions about what happens to your estate after you die.

A will is not the same as a power of attorney. A power of attorney deals with your instructions about what happens to your affairs while you are alive.

You need to name someone as executor of the estate. This is the person who follows the instructions in your will. You should also name a second person in case the first executor cannot act as executor.

The executor can be a trusted friend, relative, lawyer or company. Your executor is ''not'' automatically your attorney unless you appoint the same person as executor and as your attorney under a power of attorney.

You can cancel an old will and make a new one, as long as you are mentally capable.

==Elder abuse ==

Elder abuse is mistreatment that results in harm or loss to an older person. Elder abuse falls into a number of different categories:

*'''Physical abuse''': using physical force against an older adult.
*'''Financial abuse''': misusing an older adult’s money or property. It includes forcing an older adult to sign a document.
*'''Neglect''': the person is not being kept clean and safe.
*'''Sexual abuse''': forced sexual contact of any kind.
*'''Psychological or emotional abuse''': any actions that cause mental and emotional harm. It includes threats, verbal abuse, non-verbal abuse and humiliation.

===What are some signs of abuse? ===

Here are some signs that abuse may be happening:
*'''Physical abuse:''' bruising and injuries that cannot be explained.
*'''Psychological or emotional abuse:''' showing a high level of anxiety or distress.
*'''Financial abuse:''' large unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts.
*'''Neglect or self-neglect:''' lack of bathing, unclean living conditions, and lack of health aids such as dentures or glasses.

Different types of abuse often occur at the same time. For example, a victim of physical abuse may also be a victim of psychological or emotional abuse.

===Where to go for help ===
[[File:Smiling young and elderly pair.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

You deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Elder abuse is always wrong, and can also be a criminal offence.

If you think you may need legal advice, contact a lawyer.

The following resources can provide support to you or someone you know:

*'''BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support''': BC CEAS provides ''confidential'' legal information and emotional support over the phone. BC CEAS can also provide legal representation. Contact details are in the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.
*'''BC Human Rights Clinic''': Operated by the Community Legal Assistance Society, the BC Human Rights Clinic provides assistance and representation to those who need help dealing with a provincial human rights complaint. For more information phone 604-622-1100 or toll-free 1-855-685-6222.
*'''VictimLINK''': VictimLINK can put you in touch with counselling and helping services, and people who may be able to help you find a safe place to stay. Call 1-800-563-0808.
*'''BC Association of Community Response Networks''': BCCRN can provide information and help to anyone who is being abused or neglected, or is supporting someone who is. To find your local Community Response Network, email [mailto:info@bccrns.ca info@bccrns.ca] or go to [http://www.bccrns.ca www.bccrns.ca].
*'''Community Care Facilities Licensing Officer''': For seniors who are in a care facility or group home, call the Community Care Facilities Licensing Officer in your area. To contact a licensing officer, call the Health Information Line at 1-800-465-4911 and ask for the telephone number.
*'''Public Guardian and Trustee''': The Public Guardian and Trustee's Office can tell you which local agency has the responsibility to respond to reports of abuse and neglect of older adults. Phone 604-775-1007 or 604-660-4444. If calling from outside the Lower Mainland, call Service Canada at 1-800-663-7867 and ask to be transferred to the Public Guardian and Trustee’s Office.
*'''Regional Health Authorities''': The Regional Health Authorities such as Vancouver Coastal Health, Fraser Health, Interior Health, Vancouver Island Health Authority and Northern Health Authority are designated agencies. Designated agencies have a legal responsibility to look into reports of adult abuse and neglect.
*'''The police''': If you are in immediate danger, call 911. In non-emergencies or if there has been a criminal offence (like theft), call your local police. You may wish to make a police report.
*'''Your local health unit''': Call the Health and Seniors Information Line at 1-800-465-4911 and ask to be connected to your local health unit or a mental health worker.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

{{Learning about the Law Wikibook Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Learning about the Law Wikibook
|author =
}}

Working in BC

2015-11-02T22:52:10Z

Drew: /* Discrimination in employment */

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Working in BC Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}

This section looks at laws that apply to the workplace in British Columbia.

==BC employment standards==

In BC there is a law to protect you and your basic rights as a worker. It is called the ''[http://canlii.ca/t/8405 Employment Standards Act]''. This law protects most workers.

The ''Employment Standards Act'' and Regulations under the Act set minimum standards for working conditions in most workplaces in British Columbia and governs:
*certain aspects of hiring,
*the minimum wage rate,
*hours of work and overtime,
*statutory holidays (and pay),
*certain leaves of absence(including pregnancy leave),
*annual vacation (and pay), and
*ending employment.
[[File:Workeratdesk-350.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
The Employment Standards Branch is responsible for labour and employment law in the province, including the BC ''Employment Standards Act'' and Regulations under the Act.

Farm workers are protected by some but not all sections of the ''Employment Standards Act''. The Act excludes veterinarians, lawyers, babysitters and students.

A collective agreement between an employer and a union may replace certain sections for unionized employees. For more information,
contact the Employment Standards Branch.

The Employment Standards Branch has a range of useful information materials about the ''Employment Standards Act''. For more information, contact:

:'''Employment Standards Branch'''
:1-800-663-3316 
:[http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb] and [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide]

:'''Ministry of Jobs, Tourism & Skills Training and Responsible for Labour'''
:[http://www.gov.bc.ca/jtst www.gov.bc.ca/jtst]

===Accepting a job===

When you accept a job, you enter into a legal agreement (or contract) with your employer. Your employer agrees to pay you a salary and provide other benefits and entitlements in return for your work.

===Minimum wage===
There is a minimum wage law for most jobs. Each province sets a minimum wage, which is the lowest amount of money the employer may pay you for your work. In 2013, the minimum wage in BC is $10.25 per hour except for liquor servers, who receive a minimum wage of $9.00 per hour. The rates change from time to time.

Both full-time and part-time workers have the right to minimum wage. You can find information on the Employment Standards Branch website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Hours of work===
Unless you have an averaging agreement with your employer (described in the next paragraph), your employer must pay you overtime after eight hours of work in one day, or more than 40 regular hours in one week.

If you agree, your employer may establish a "time bank" in which your overtime entitlement would be saved up and paid out at a later date. For more information, read the section called “Overtime Pay” or access the factsheet on the Employment Standards Branch website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Averaging agreements===
Under an averaging agreement, you and your employer can enter into a written agreement that allows your employer to schedule your working time in a way that better meets the employer’s needs.

In effect, an averaging agreement allows your employer to compress your regularly scheduled work week into fewer, longer work days without paying the usual overtime.

To use a simple example: If you usually work 40 hours a week, on average, under a one-week averaging agreement, your employer could schedule you to work for 10 hours a day for the four busiest days of work. In this case, your 40-hour, five-day work week has been "averaged" to fit into four days of 10 hours each. No overtime is paid for the 10-hour days.

Averaging agreements can be complicated. To find out more contact the Employment Standards Branch or read the fact sheet on averaging agreements on the Employment Standards Branch website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Overtime pay===
Generally, your employer must pay you overtime:

*when you have no averaging agreement with your employer, and you are required to work more than 8 hours in a day or more than 40 hours in a week, or
*when you do have an averaging agreement with your employer, and your employer asks you to work more hours in a day than you agreed to in the averaging agreement.

The amount of overtime pay you get depends on the number of extra hours you work. You must be paid overtime after eight hours of work in one day. Your employer must pay you one-and-a-half times your regular pay for each hour you work after eight hours. This is called time-and-a-half.

Your employer must pay you two times your regular pay for each hour you work after 12 hours. This is called ''double-time''.

The Employment Standards Branch website has more information about the complicated overtime rules at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Minimum daily pay===
If you come to work as your employer asks you to do, you must be paid for at least two hours at your regular wage, even if you work less. If you have an averaging agreement and you agreed to work more than eight hours in a day, you must be paid for at least four hours, even if you work less.

If you come to work but you are unfit to work because for example you have been drinking or because you forgot your safety equipment, your employer does not need to pay you minimum daily pay.

===Meal break===
You can work for five hours without a break. After five hours, your employer has to give you a break of at least 30 minutes. An employer who requires an employee to work or be available for work during a meal break must count the meal break as time worked by the employee. Employers are not required to provide coffee
breaks.

===Holidays you get paid for===
There are ten public holidays in BC. They are called statutory holidays because the ''Employment Standards Act'' says they are holidays. Statute is another name for a law made by the government.

Normally, on a statutory holiday, you take the day off work but you still get paid. The statutory holidays are:

*New Year's Day
*Family Day
*Good Friday
*Victoria Day
*Canada Day
*British Columbia Day
*Labour Day
*Thanksgiving Day
*Remembrance Day
*Christmas Day

Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, and Boxing Day are not statutory holidays, though many employers will offer employees a day off with pay on those dates.

To get paid for the statutory holiday, you must:

*have been employed for at least 30 calendar days, and
*have worked on at least 15 of the 30 days before the statutory holiday.

If you work under an averaging agreement any time in the 30 days before the statutory holiday, you automatically have the right to the statutory holiday.

There are different payment rules which apply if you are required to work on a statutory holiday. The Employment Standards Branch website has information about this at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Vacation pay===
After your first 12 months of employment, employers have to give you at least two weeks paid vacation every year. If you have worked for the same employer for five years or more, your employer has to give you three weeks paid vacation every year. Usually you must take your vacation within 12 months of earning it. You may take it in periods of one or more weeks. Statutory holidays are in addition to annual vacation.

If you leave your job before you use up your vacation, your employer still has to pay you for that unused vacation time.

===Losing your job===
If you work for an employer for three months or less, he or she can let you go without giving you notice or extra pay. If you work more than three months, the employer must give you notice in writing before your job ends or must pay you ''compensation''. The amount of notice or compensation depends on how long you worked for the employer but is usually no more than 8 weeks.

:'''For example:''' Chui worked in a large store for four months. After Christmas, her employer said, "Today is your last day." She gave Chui one week’s extra pay.

Sometimes an employer does not have enough work for the employees or does not have money to pay the bills. The employer might lay off the employees for a few weeks.

A ''layoff'' is usually temporary. The employer doesn’t have to tell you ahead of time. If the layoff lasts longer than 13 weeks in a 20-week period, it means your employment has ended.

If the layoff is permanent and your employment has ended, the employer must give you compensation.

Employees can lose their job without notice or compensation for stealing from an employer, repeat lateness or harassing another employee.

==Quitting your job==
[[File:Workerwithboxes.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

Employees can quit a job any time. It is usual to give your employer notice that you are quitting. Two weeks of notice is considered customary but is not required by the ''Employment Standards Act''.

If you can, giving plenty of notice that you are quitting is a good idea especially if you want your employer to give a good report about you when you apply for another job. This is called giving a ''reference''.

It is important to note that if you quit your job, or if you are fired for misconduct, you will usually not be eligible to receive employment insurance (EI) benefits.

You can find out more about the laws about working in BC by looking at the ''Guide to the Employment Standards Act''. This guide is online at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide].

==Leave==
===Pregnancy leave===
A working pregnant woman has legal rights. For example, she can take up to 17 weeks off work without pay. This is called pregnancy leave.

Pregnancy leave begins no earlier than 11 weeks before the expected birth date and no later than the actual birth date.

Pregnancy leave ends no earlier than 6 weeks after the actual birth date, unless the employee requests a shorter period, and no later than 17 weeks after the actual birth date.

An employer can’t fire a woman because she is pregnant. And when she returns to work, she must get back her old job or a similar job for at least the same pay.

A working pregnant woman can apply for money from Employment Insurance during her pregnancy. There are rules about when a woman can apply and how much time she can have. She may be eligible for up to 15 weeks of benefits.

===Family responsibility leave===
An employee is entitled to up to 5 days of unpaid leave during each employment year to meet responsibilities related to:

*the care, health or education of a child in the employee's care, or
*the care or health of any other member of the employee's immediate family.

===Bereavement leave===
An employee is entitled to up to 3 days of unpaid leave on the death of a member of the employee’s immediate family.

Immediate family is identified as a spouse, child, parent, guardian, sibling, grandchild and grandparent of an employee and any person who lives regularly with the employee’s family.

For more information on leaves read the "Leaves Factsheet" on the Employment Standards website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/facshts/leave.htm www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

==Termination of employment==

The BC ''Employment Standards Act'' does not remove an employer's right to ''terminate'' an employee.

The Act requires that employees who are terminated are entitled to receive written notice or compensation based on length of service.

An employee who is terminated may be eligible for compensation based on the following formula:

*after three consecutive months of employment – one week's pay,
*after 12 consecutive months of employment – two weeks' pay, and
*after three consecutive years – three weeks' pay, plus one week's pay for each additional year of employment to a maximum of eight weeks.

The employer is not required to pay compensation if an employee is given advance written notice of termination equal to the number of weeks for which the employee is eligible. This notice must be in writing.

==Belonging to a union==

A union is a group of employees who join together to negotiate wages and working conditions with the employer. Everyone has the right to form a union if most of the employees want a union. Unions are for the protection of employees.

Your union and your employer will talk together. They will decide about pay, vacation time, sick pay, and other benefits. This is called collective bargaining. They will write a contract. This is called a collective agreement.

The collective agreement sets out your rights and working conditions. If you have a problem with your employer, talk to the union. The union will meet with the employer to discuss the concerns.

There are some rules for unions. The rules say what unions can and can’t do. In BC, this law is called the ''Labour Relations Code''.

==Getting hurt on the job==
[[File:Doctorwithclipboard.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
Sometimes workers get hurt on the job. Workers' compensation is a program run by WorkSafeBC. This program helps workers who are injured or get sick because of their work.

WorkSafeBC makes safety rules and sends inspectors to most workplaces to check if they are safe. Employers pay for this protection. There is no cost to workers.

Workers who can’t work because of an accident at work or illness may get money from the workers' compensation program. If a worker dies at work, the family may get compensation. Their website is at [http://www.worksafebc.com www.worksafebc.com].

==Employment Insurance (EI)==
''Employment Insurance (EI)'' is a federal government insurance program that all workers and employers pay into. It is often known just by its initials: EI.

EI is meant to help workers when they lose their jobs, or need time off work.

You have to work a certain number of weeks before you can apply for benefits.

There are several types of Employment Insurance benefits:

*Regular Benefits are for people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.
*Maternity and Parental Benefits are for those who are pregnant, have recently given birth, are adopting a child, or are caring for a newborn.
*Sickness Benefits are for people who cannot work because of sickness or injury.
*Compassionate Care Benefits are for people who have to provide care or support to a family member who is gravely ill with a significant risk of death.

To apply for EI benefits, you need to fill out an application for EI at a Service Canada Centre or online. At the website, look for "Apply for Employment Insurance Benefits" under "Online Services and Forms."

:'''Service Canada Centre'''
:Vancouver: 1-800-622-6232
:[http://www.servicecanada.ca www.servicecanada.ca]

Call your local Service Canada Centre to find out if you need to make an appointment. They might ask you for your postal code to find out which office you should go to.

When you go, you should take:

*your social insurance card and proof of your immigration status,
*a second piece of identification, with your photo if possible, like your passport or driver’s licence, and
*your Record of Employment (ROE), if you have it, from every place you worked in the last 12 months.

If you do not speak English or French, take someone who can translate for you.

:'''Note:''' If you want to get regular EI benefits, be sure to apply as soon as you lose your job. Apply even if you do not yet have your Record of Employment (ROE). If you delay applying for benefits for more than four weeks after your last day of work, you may lose benefits.

If you lost your job because you quit or got fired, it will be difficult to get EI benefits. Check with your EI office for the number of weeks you need to have worked in your area. The Service Canada website also provides details at [http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/sc/ei/benefits/regular.shtml www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/sc/ei].

==Discrimination in employment==
[[File:Fingersonkeyboard.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
In Canada, there are laws to protect workers from discrimination. For example, an employer is expected to hire employees on the basis of skills, experience and education needed for the job.

It is discrimination if an employer doesn't give a job because of your gender, age, race, religion, birthplace, sexual orientation (gay, bisexual, or straight), marital or family status (single, married, or living common-law), mental or physical disability, or because you have a criminal record for an offence that is unrelated to the job you are applying for.

There are also laws to protect you against discrimination while you are on the job.

===British Columbia Human Rights Code===
The BC ''[http://canlii.ca/t/843q Human Rights Code]'' applies to all businesses, agencies, and services in BC. The Code protects people from discrimination in many areas of daily life, including discrimination in the workplace.

To make a complaint under the Code about discrimination in the workplace, the following must usually be true:

*you have been singled out and treated differently and poorly, compared to others, and
*you are being treated differently and poorly because of a personal characteristic, such as your race, colour, religious belief, gender, mental or physical disability, or sexual orientation.

For information about the ''Human Rights Code'' and how to file a human rights complaint, you can contact the BC Human Rights Clinic.

:'''BC Human Rights Clinic'''
:300 - 1140 West Pender Street
:Vancouver BC V6E 4G1
:[http://www.bchrc.net/ www.bchrc.net]

===Where do you file a complaint?===

The BC Human Rights Tribunal is where you can make a complaint that someone has discriminated against you under the Code. The tribunal’s job is to resolve human rights complaints in a way that is fair to the person who made the complaint and the person whom the complaint is against.

:'''BC Human Rights Tribunal'''
:Vancouver: 604-775-2000
:Toll-free: 1-888-440-8844
:[http://www.bchrt.bc.ca www.bchrt.bc.ca]

===How do you file a complaint?===
To file a complaint you need to get a complaint form, fill it out, and file it with the tribunal within six months of the incident. These materials are available online at [http://www.bchrt.bc.ca www.bchrt.bc.ca].

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}
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Renting a Home

2015-11-02T22:48:59Z

Drew: /* Discrimination in renting */

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Renting a Home Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
In every province in Canada, there are laws about renting. You must follow these laws if you are a ''landlord'' or ''tenant''. Every province also has laws about buying and owing a home. In this section, you will learn about these laws in British Columbia.

==Landlords and tenants==
[[File:cutoutofhome.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

When you rent a home or an apartment, you are a tenant, also referred to as a renter. If you own a home or apartment and you rent it to someone else, you are a landlord.

There is a department of the provincial government that is responsible for making sure landlords and tenants follow these laws. It is called the ''[[Residential Tenancy Branch]]''.

===Find out what the law says===

Before you rent a place, find out what the law says. There are more rules contained in laws called ''Regulations''.

The main law that gives the rules for landlords and tenants is called the ''[[Residential Tenancy Act]]''. The Residential Tenancy Branch and Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre can provide you with important, free information.

:'''Residential Tenancy Branch'''
:Vancouver: 604-660-1020
:Victoria: 250-387-1602
:Toll-free: 1-800-665-8779
:[http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca www.rto.gov.bc.ca]

:'''Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC)'''
:Vancouver: 604-255-0546
:Toll-free: 1-800-665-1185
:[http://www.tenants.bc.ca www.tenants.bc.ca]

===Looking for a place to rent?===

If you are renting for the first time, or if you are new to BC, it is important to ask the landlord what is included in the rent — for example, heat, hot water, cable service, and laundry machines for your use. If you have any doubts or questions, call the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC).

When you look at a place to rent, the landlord will tell you how much the rent is. If you apply to rent the place, the landlord cannot charge you money to take your application. Doing this is illegal.

===Making an agreement to rent===

When a tenant finds a suitable house or apartment to rent, the tenant and the landlord make a contract. A contract is a legal agreement. A contract between a landlord and tenant is called a ''tenancy agreement''.

A tenancy agreement must follow the rules about renting in the ''[[Residential Tenancy Act]]'' and Regulations.

The Residential Tenancy Branch has a tenancy agreement form that you and your landlord can use. The form is called Residential Tenancy Agreement. It is available [http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca/documents/RTB-1.pdf from their website].

A tenant and a landlord can sign a month-to-month agreement or a fixed term agreement, also known as a ''lease''. If you sign a lease, you can’t move out until your lease is finished without paying extra money.

:'''For example:''' if you sign a one year lease, you have to stay until the end of the one year. If you decide to move out before the end of the lease, you may have to pay your landlord some extra money to cover the difference between what you agreed to in writing and what you now want to change.

A tenancy agreement must be in writing. The tenant and the landlord sign it and date it. The landlord must give the tenant a copy of the tenancy agreement within 21 days. The agreement will say how much the rent is and when you must pay it. The agreement should also include what the law says about such things as ''security deposits'', ''rent increases'', and repairs.

You should read the agreement before you sign it. Get someone to help if you need to.

===Move-in and move-out===

A tenant and a landlord do an inspection together when a tenant moves in and when a tenant moves out. They check to see that everything is working. Make sure you get a copy of this inspection from the landlord.

Before you move in or move out, call the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre for information about the rules for the inspection. The phone numbers are in the section called [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]].

==Rent and security deposit==
===Paying rent===

When you rent a house or apartment, you usually pay rent to the landlord once a month. Make sure you have proof that you paid the rent, such as a witness, a receipt from the landlord, or a cancelled cheque from your bank or credit union. Keep this proof in case there is a dispute about it later.

If your landlord wants to increase your rent, he or she must follow the rules. For example, the landlord cannot increase the rent if you have not been in the place for at least 12 months.

Landlords must give tenants three months' notice if they increase the rent. This means the landlord must tell you in writing three months before you start to pay the higher rent. The month you receive the notice doesn’t count, even if you receive notice on the first of the month.

The landlord must use a special form called [http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca/documents/RTB-7.pdf Notice of Rent Increase].

The landlord can only increase the rent once a year. In most cases, the landlord can only increase the rent according to a percentage set by the government. This percentage may change from year to year. In 2013, this percentage is 4.3%.

Check with the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre to see if this percentage has changed. Their phone numbers are in the section called [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]].

===Paying a security deposit===

When tenants move into a place, they usually must pay the landlord some extra money that they may get back when they move out. This is called a security deposit. It is to pay for any damage the tenant might do. It can’t be more than one-half of one month’s rent money. It is very important for the tenant to keep the receipt for the security deposit.

===Getting your money back===

When the tenant moves out, the tenant should give the landlord an address in writing saying where to send the security deposit. Once the tenant has given the landlord this address, the landlord must return the security deposit with interest within 15 days or ask the Residential Tenancy Branch for permission to keep some or all of it.

If the tenant damaged the place, the landlord can use some of the security deposit money for repairs. However, the tenant must agree to this in writing.

The landlord cannot keep the security deposit or part of it unless the tenant agrees in writing to pay for damages or unpaid rent. If the tenant does not agree in writing, the landlord must contact the Residential Tenancy Branch for permission to keep some of the security deposit money. For more information, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch.

==Repairs==
[[File:paintingfence.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
===Making repairs===

The landlord must put up a sign or tell the tenant in writing who to call if there is an emergency. If you have problems with the electricity, or the toilet doesn’t work, or there is no hot water, for example, the landlord must fix it. The law says a landlord must make such repairs.

Ask your landlord to make the repairs. It is a good idea to do this in writing and keep a copy of the letter.

If the landlord doesn’t make the repairs, phone the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre. Their phone numbers are in the section called [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]].

===Asking for help with repairs===

Some towns and cities have rules about keeping rental suites safe and healthy. You can phone your local city hall or town council and ask them about these rules.

You can use the Blue Pages of your phone book. Look under "Health," "Fire" or "Building Inspections." Or you can do a search for your local government on the Internet.

If you live in Vancouver, the phone number for the City of Vancouver Property Use Inspector is 604-873-7398.

When you call, ask if they will send an ''inspector''. An inspector can check your place and order the landlord to do the repairs.

:'''For example''': Susan Johnson lived in an apartment. The pipe from the toilet had water coming out, and the landlord didn’t fix it after Susan asked him to. Susan phoned city hall and told the people there about the problem.
:An inspector came to Susan’s apartment and looked at the problem. This inspection was free. The inspector told the landlord to fix the pipe right away. If an inspector tells a landlord to do something, he or she must do it.

Another place to get help is at the Residential Tenancy Branch. You can apply for a ''dispute resolution'' hearing for repairs.

==Resolving disputes==
===Residential tenancy dispute resolution===

If you have a problem with your landlord, you may be able to resolve the matter by talking to him or her. If you cannot work it out on your own you can access dispute resolution services through the Residential Tenancy Branch. A dispute resolution hearing is a bit like a court. You ask a Dispute Resolution Officer (DRO) to make a decision based on the law. You would need to have evidence in support of your argument.

A dispute resolution hearing can be held on the phone or in person. The DRO makes a decision. You and the landlord must obey the decision.

To find out more about dispute resolution, see the ''[[Tenant Survival Guide]]'', a free publication of the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC), available online and in print. Contact details are in the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

===Paying for damage===

When a tenant or tenant’s visitors damage a rented house or apartment, the tenant should tell the landlord right away. The tenant must pay for the repair. The landlord doesn’t have to pay for it.

:'''For example''': Bill Lee is a tenant living in a suite in an older house. One evening he had a party. One of his friends accidentally broke the big front window. In the morning, Bill called the landlord and explained what happened. The landlord called a company to replace the window and Bill paid for the new window. It cost $200.

===Letting the landlord in===

Landlords can ask to see the rented house or apartment. They may want to come once a month. Landlords must give a letter to the tenant 24 hours before they come. The letter must say what time between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. the landlord will come and why he or she is coming.

Sometimes there is an emergency. For example, you may have a fire or a broken water pipe. Then the landlord can come in without permission.

==Eviction information==

===For landlords===

A landlord can sometimes make a tenant move out. This is called eviction.

If you are a landlord, and you need to evict a tenant, you must:

*Give notice in writing to tell the tenant to move out. You can get a form at the Residential Tenancy Branch or your local Service BC Centre. The notice must contain reasons for eviction and explain to the tenant his or her right to dispute the eviction.
*Give the notice to the tenant yourself or send it by registered mail. Landlords are not supposed to just put the letter under the door.

Give the tenant proper notice. The law says how much time you have to give tenants before they must move out.

===For tenants===

If a landlord wants you to move out, the law says he or she must follow the rules and put the notice in writing. The landlord cannot just tell you to leave. If you are a tenant and you get an eviction notice, read it very carefully. You may disagree with the reason the landlord is evicting you. For example, you don’t think you’re too noisy, or you don’t have too many people living in your place.

You may want to try to stop the eviction. You can ''appeal'', which means you ask an official to decide. The eviction form says how much time you have to do that. ''Never ignore an eviction notice.'' You should ask for help or advice. See the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

===How much notice must a landlord give?===

The landlord must give:

*'''Immediate notice''' when the tenant is doing something that is likely to be dangerous to others. The landlord can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for something called an order of possession.
*'''10 days notice''' when the tenant didn’t pay the rent.
*'''One month notice''' when the tenant is too noisy or has too many people living in the place.
*'''Two months notice''' when the landlord is going to renovate the apartment, or tear it down, convert it to something else, or live in it. If you get a two-month eviction, check with the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre about compensation.

==Moving out==
[[File:movingout.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
When you want to move out of a house or apartment that you are renting, the law requires that you tell your landlord in writing. This is called ''giving notice''. You have to write your address and the date you will move out and sign your name.

If you are in a ''month-to-month'' tenancy, you must give it to the landlord at least one month

before you will move out. The first day of the month before you plan to move out is too late.

If you signed a ''fixed-term agreement'' or lease, you are not allowed to end your tenancy early. If you do, you may have to pay extra money to the landlord for breaking the tenancy agreement.

:'''For example''': Raj Gill has a month-to-month agreement and has decided to move. He plans to move out of his apartment on December 31. He will give his notice to his landlord on November 30 at the latest. Giving notice December 1 is too late. If he is late, Raj has to pay an extra month’s rent.

It's best to give the notice to the landlord or the building manager yourself. You may want to ask someone to go with you in case the landlord denies receiving the notice. Keep a copy of the notice.

If you mail the notice via registered mail, make sure you keep the receipt and a copy of the notice. Remember that if the landlord denies you gave proper notice, you will need evidence to prove that you did.

==Discrimination in renting==

Sometimes a house or apartment is for rent. The landlord can’t refuse to rent to people because of their gender, age, race, religion, birthplace, sexual orientation (gay, bisexual, or straight), marital or family status (single, married, or living common-law), or mental or physical disability.

Unless the building is reserved for people over 55 years old, a landlord can't refuse to rent to people because they have children. The landlord also can't refuse to rent to you because you are on welfare. BC law says this is discrimination.

A landlord can't charge a different price or make different rules for tenants of a different race, skin colour, religion, sex, and so on. This is the law. You can complain to the BC Human Rights Tribunal if you think a landlord has discriminated against you.

:'''BC Human Rights Tribunal'''
:Vancouver: 604-775-2000
:Toll-free: 1-888-440-8844
:[http://www.bchrt.bc.ca www.bchrt.bc.ca]

For information about the ''Human Rights Code'' and how to file a human rights complaint, you can contact the BC Human Rights Clinic operated by the Community Legal Assistance Society:

:'''BC Human Rights Clinic'''
:300 - 1140 West Pender Street
:Vancouver BC V6E 4G1
:[http://www.bchrc.net/ www.bchrc.net]

==Buying a home==
[[File:Homewithsoldsign.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
If you want to buy a home, you need to know how much you can afford. Home expenses include the purchase price, legal fees, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, heating costs and others expenses such as repairs.

It is a good idea to talk to your banker, credit union or mortgage broker to find out how much you can afford to pay for a home.

Most people cannot afford to pay for the entire cost of a home. A lender may lend you money to purchase it. Borrowed money for a home is called a mortgage.

The lender will also expect you to use some of your own money and make a down payment on the home you buy. Sometimes a lender will give you a pre-approved mortgage. This is a mortgage amount at an interest rate they guarantee for a period of time, often for 90 days.

You make a regular payment, most often monthly, to pay down your mortgage. Your monthly payment includes the interest that the bank charges for you to borrow their money.

===What's involved in buying a home===

Most homes in Canada are sold through real estate agents, also called realtors. A real estate agent can assist you through the purchase process including: negotiating the price, providing you with information on the community you want to live in and sharing information about the housing market in general.

The cost associated with working with an agent is usually covered by the seller of the home. It is a good idea to meet with a realtor before you decide if you would like to work with them.

When you find the property you want to purchase, a real estate agent will write an offer, called a Contract of Purchase and Sale. The agent will present your offer to the seller.

Once you and the seller have agreed on a price, the agent will prepare the necessary documents to complete the purchase. Your agent will take care of sending the documents to the bank in order to arrange for the mortgage that you had been pre-approved for.

It is a good idea to have the home inspected before you buy it. This may help you avoid big or small surprises such as a broken frame or mold in the walls. A realtor can help you find a home inspector. You can also find information about home inspectors online or in your local phone book. The buyer pays for the cost of the inspection.

You will need a lawyer or notary public to prepare the documents that transfer legal ownership from the seller to you. Your real estate agent may be able to suggest a lawyer or notary public for you to choose from. Lawyers and notaries can also be found online or in your local phone book.

===Owning a home: bylaws===

When you own your home, you must still obey the city laws. These are called bylaws. They deal with safety and health issues and allowable uses of the property.

They cover everything from rules about building a house to rules about making noise and maintaining fences. To find out more, read ''Buying a Home in British Columbia'', available online at [http://www.hpo.bc.ca/files/download/Bulletins/BuyingANewHome.pdf www.hpo.bc.ca].

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

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{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
==Fundamentals of law and criminal and civil law==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Canadian Bar Association'''
| width="40%" | "Our Court System and Solving Disputes" offers information describing our court system and ways to resolve legal disputes without going to court.
| width="40%" | [http://www.cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Dial-A-Law/Scripts/Lawyers-Legal-Services-and-Courts/432 www.cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Dial-A-Law]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. The resources available through Clicklaw are designed to be used by the public.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Family Law in BC'''
| width="40%" | Family Law in BC is a website that provides information and resources on a wide range of family law issues. It is produced by the Legal Services Society.
| width="40%" | [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/ www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | This is the website of the BC Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for managing the justice system in BC. The website provides information on a wide range of legal topics and describes the government services available to help you.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | The Court Information Program for Immigrants provides free legal information to new immigrants and refugees. All content on the website is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Hindi. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos – available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi – which teaches immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. Discrimination occurs when someone treats you differently based on your personal characteristics. 
Courts of BC is a website that uses information and videos to describe the structure and function of BC’s courts: Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. 
Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca/programs/court-information-program-immigrants www.justiceeducation.ca/programs/court-information-program-immigrants] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
[http://www.courtsofbc.ca/ www.courtsofbc.ca] 
[http://www.adminlawbc.ca/ www.adminlawbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | You may be able to get free legal help (legal aid) if:
*your legal problem is covered by legal aid rules,
*your income and the value of your property are below a certain limit, and
*you have no other way of getting legal help. 
The Legal Services Society also has free booklets on legal topics in English and many other languages.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-408-2172 
Phone toll-free: 1-866-577-2525 
[http://www.lss.bc.ca www.lss.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Victimsinfo.ca'''
| width="40%" | A website for victims and witnesses of crime in BC. The website gives people the information they need to deal with the consequences of crime.
| width="40%" | [http://www.victimsinfo.ca/ www.victimsinfo.ca]
|-
|}

==Family law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. The resources available through Clicklaw are designed to be used by the public. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Family law." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Family Law in British Columbia'''
| width="40%" | The Family Law in British Columbia website has important information about family matters including: child protection, child support, common-law relationships, divorce and separation, and family violence. Information is available in 12 languages. The website is produced by the Legal Services Society. The Legal Services Society has free print and online booklets on family law topics in English and many other languages, including: ''Living Together or Living Apart: Common-Law Relationships, Marriage, Separation, and Divorce'' is a booklet explaining the basics of family law in BC. It includes information about living common-law or being married, getting separated or divorced, and where to find help. The booklet is available in eight languages. ''Parents' Rights, Kids' Rights: A Parent's Guide to Child Protection Law in BC'' is a booklet explaining what happens if the Ministry of Children & Family Development has concerns about a child’s safety. ''For Your Protection'' is written for people who need protection from violent partners or ex-partners, but the information applies to anyone in an abusive relationship. "If Your Child is Taken" is a fact sheet explaining the steps that parents or guardians can take if the director of Children and Family Development removes their child or is planning to remove their child from the home. It describes what the law says, what parents can do, and what happens in court.
| width="40%" | [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca] [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/resources/publications/ www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/resources/publications]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | This website provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Family Law."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JP Boyd on Family Law'''
| width="40%" | This resource, available online and in print, offers information about family law and the court process in British Columbia. It’s written in language that is easy to understand, and it has definitions for legal words and phrases.
| width="40%" | [http://wiki.clicklaw.bc.ca/index.php/jpboyd wiki.clicklaw.bc.ca/index.php/jpboyd]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | The Ministry of Justice manages BC's justice system. This website has information to help parents who are separating. It includes how parents can reach an agreement, what government services are available, and where parents can find programs to help them and their children cope.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca] or [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | On the homepage, select the quick link to "Family Law." Court Information Program for Immigrants provides free legal information to new immigrants and refugees. All content on the website is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Punjabi, and Hindi. Families Change: Guide to Separation & Divorce is a multimedia website that provides information on separation and divorce for children, teens, and parents. KidsBC.ca: Explore Changeville is a multimedia website that aims to help children cope with the changes in their lives when parents separate or divorce.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca www.justiceeducation.ca] [http://www.courtinformation.ca www.courtinformation.ca] [http://www.familieschange.ca www.familieschange.ca] [http://www.kidsbc.ca www.kidsbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 1-800-663-1919 [http://www.cba.org/bc www.cba.org/bc ]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | You may be able to get free legal help (legal aid) if you have a serious family law problem and:
*your legal problem is covered by legal aid rules,
*your income and the value of your property are below a certain limit, and
*you have no other way of getting legal help.
| width="40%" | [http://www.legalaid.bc.ca www.legalaid.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Mediate BC Society '''
| width="40%" | Mediate BC's Family Mediation Services can put you in touch with a mediator who can help you and your spouse work together to find a solution to legal problems and help you make an agreement.
| width="40%" | Phone: 1-604-684-1300 local 23 1-855-660-8406 [http://www.mediatebc.com www.mediatebc.com]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Parenting After Separation'''
| width="40%" | Parenting After Separation is a free three-hour workshop that helps parents make decisions about their separation that focus on the best interests of their children.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People’s Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People’s Law School offers free public legal education and information to the people of British Columbia. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include: ''Caring for Children'' outlines parents’ responsibilities and children’s rights, and where to get help. ''Child Support in BC'' booklet offers general information for parents about child support in BC. ''Talking about Abuse'' is a video series that can help non-English speakers understand how Canadian law defines family violence. It includes information on where people in BC can get help in their own language. You can order resources online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''VictimLink'''
| width="40%" | VictimLink can put you in touch with services that will help victims of violence.
| width="40%" | 1-800-563-0808 [http://www.victimlinkbc.ca/ www.victimlinkbc.ca]
|}

==Young people and the law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Child Abuse Prevention'''
| width="40%" | This website from the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development has two sections: Preventing Child Abuse in Your Community, and Just for Teens.
| width="40%" | [http://www.safekidsbc.ca www.safekidsbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Children & teens." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Children's Rights" and "Young People and Criminal Law."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 1-800-565-5297 [http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | This is the website of the BC Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for managing the justice system in BC. The website provides information on a wide range of legal topics and describes the government services available to help you. Select "Criminal Justice System" for information about young offenders.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca] or [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Gang Prevention is a website that aims to prevent youth involvement in gang activity. It provides information and resources to parents and youth. On the website, select "Youth, Families & Community." Legal Rights for Youth is a website for youth. It describes the legal rights for youth living in British Columbia.
| width="40%" | [http://www.gangprevention.ca www.gangprevention.ca] [http://www.legalrightsforyouth.ca www.legalrightsforyouth.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People’s Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People’s Law School offers free public legal education and information to the people of British Columbia. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include ''Consequences of a Youth Record'', a free booklet that explains what a youth record is, how long it remains, and what a record means for the youth. You can order booklets online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|}

==Elder law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''BC Association of Community Response Networks (BCCRN)'''
| width="40%" | Provides information and help to anyone who is being abused or neglected, or is supporting someone who is.
| width="40%" | [http://www.bccrns.ca www.bccrns.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support (BCCEAS)'''
| width="40%" | BCCEAS provides information about benefits and programs for seniors, financial and legal planning, elder abuse and where to go for help, and how to protect yourself against theft and fraud.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-437-1940 1-866-437-1940 Call between 9am and 1pm Monday-Friday [http://www.bcceas.ca www.bcceas.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Seniors." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Includes a script on "Elder Law, Elder Abuse and Seniors' Rights."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 1-800-565-5297 [http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | The Justice Education Society creates programs and resources that improve access to British Columbia’s justice system. They include ''Your Human Rights in BC'', a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca www.justiceeducation.ca] [http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry'''
| width="40%" | Nidus provides information to British Columbians about personal planning, including information on making a representation agreement or enduring power of attorney. At the homepage, select "Information" and "Self-Help."
| width="40%" | [http://www.nidus.ca www.nidus.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | People's Law School offers free public legal education and information to British Columbians. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include ''When I'm 64'', a series of three booklets with information about benefits and services available to seniors and about planning for your future. You can order booklets online.
| width="40%" | [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Public Guardian and Trustee'''
| width="40%" | The office of the Public Guardian and Trustee provides services to adults who need help managing their affairs.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-775-1007 [http://www.trustee.bc.ca/services/adult/index.html www.trustee.bc.ca/services/adult/index.html]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''VictimLink'''
| width="40%" | VictimLink can put you in touch with counselling and helping services, and people who may be able to help you find a safe place to stay.
| width="40%" | 1-800-563-0808 [http://www.victimlinkbc.ca www.victimlinkbc.ca]
|}

==Working in BC==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Employment." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Community Legal Assistance Society'''
| width="40%" | CLAS operates the BC Human Rights Clinic, which provides free representation to qualifying complainants who have cases before the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-622-1100 
Phone toll-free: 1-855-685-6222 
[http://www.clasbc.net www.clasbc.net]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Protection Against Job Discrimination" and "Applying for Employment Insurance Benefits."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Employment."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities. Booklets are free and are available online and in print.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|-
|}

==Renting a home==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Housing, tenancy & neighbours." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Community Legal Assistance Society'''
| width="40%" | CLAS will provide legal advice and some representation to low-income British Columbians who are facing eviction, foreclosure of their mortgage, expulsion from a co-op, or who want to challenge a Residential Tenancy Branch decision.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-685-3425 
Phone toll-free: 1-888-685-6222 
[http://www.clasbc.net www.clasbc.net]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Residential Tenancy" and "Neighbour Law."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Residential Tenancy."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | The Legal Services Society also has free print and online booklets in English and many other languages. At the website, select "Housing and tenancy."
| width="40%" | [http://www.lss.bc.ca/publications/ www.lss.bc.ca/publications]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities. Booklets are free and are available online and in print.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''PovNet'''
| width="40%" | Advocates help low-income people who have renting problems. PovNet is an online resource that can help you contact an advocate in your area. Visit the website and select "Find an Advocate."
| width="40%" | [http://www.povnet.org www.povnet.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Residential Tenancy Branch'''
| width="40%" | The branch of the BC government responsible for landlord-tenant matters. The website has free publications that contain important information.
| width="40%" | Vancouver: 604-660-1020 
Victoria: 250-387-1602 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-665-8779 
[http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca www.rto.gov.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre (TRAC)'''
| width="40%" | The Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre provides tenants with legal education and information about residential tenancy law. You can phone them if you have a problem with renting. You can also read their free publications, including the ''[[Tenant Survival Guide]]''. It is available in English or Traditional Chinese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-255-0546 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-665-1185 
[http://www.tenants.bc.ca www.tenants.bc.ca]
|-
|}

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

{{Learning about the Law Wikibook Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Learning about the Law Wikibook
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Find Out More in Learning about the Law

2015-11-02T22:31:19Z

Drew:

{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
==Fundamentals of law and criminal and civil law==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Canadian Bar Association'''
| width="40%" | "Our Court System and Solving Disputes" offers information describing our court system and ways to resolve legal disputes without going to court.
| width="40%" | [http://www.cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Dial-A-Law/Scripts/Lawyers-Legal-Services-and-Courts/432 www.cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Dial-A-Law]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. The resources available through Clicklaw are designed to be used by the public.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Family Law in BC'''
| width="40%" | Family Law in BC is a website that provides information and resources on a wide range of family law issues. It is produced by the Legal Services Society.
| width="40%" | [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/ www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | This is the website of the BC Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for managing the justice system in BC. The website provides information on a wide range of legal topics and describes the government services available to help you.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | The Court Information Program for Immigrants provides free legal information to new immigrants and refugees. All content on the website is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Hindi. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos – available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi – which teaches immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. Discrimination occurs when someone treats you differently based on your personal characteristics. 
Courts of BC is a website that uses information and videos to describe the structure and function of BC’s courts: Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. 
Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca/programs/court-information-program-immigrants www.justiceeducation.ca/programs/court-information-program-immigrants] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
[http://www.courtsofbc.ca/ www.courtsofbc.ca] 
[http://www.adminlawbc.ca/ www.adminlawbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | You may be able to get free legal help (legal aid) if:
*your legal problem is covered by legal aid rules,
*your income and the value of your property are below a certain limit, and
*you have no other way of getting legal help. 
The Legal Services Society also has free booklets on legal topics in English and many other languages.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-408-2172 
Phone toll-free: 1-866-577-2525 
[http://www.lss.bc.ca www.lss.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Victimsinfo.ca'''
| width="40%" | A website for victims and witnesses of crime in BC. The website gives people the information they need to deal with the consequences of crime.
| width="40%" | [http://www.victimsinfo.ca/ www.victimsinfo.ca]
|-
|}

==Family law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. The resources available through Clicklaw are designed to be used by the public. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Family law." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Family Law in British Columbia'''
| width="40%" | The Family Law in British Columbia website has important information about family matters including: child protection, child support, common-law relationships, divorce and separation, and family violence. Information is available in 12 languages. The website is produced by the Legal Services Society. The Legal Services Society has free print and online booklets on family law topics in English and many other languages, including: ''Living Together or Living Apart: Common-Law Relationships, Marriage, Separation, and Divorce'' is a booklet explaining the basics of family law in BC. It includes information about living common-law or being married, getting separated or divorced, and where to find help. The booklet is available in eight languages. ''Parents' Rights, Kids' Rights: A Parent's Guide to Child Protection Law in BC'' is a booklet explaining what happens if the Ministry of Children & Family Development has concerns about a child’s safety. ''For Your Protection'' is written for people who need protection from violent partners or ex-partners, but the information applies to anyone in an abusive relationship. "If Your Child is Taken" is a fact sheet explaining the steps that parents or guardians can take if the director of Children and Family Development removes their child or is planning to remove their child from the home. It describes what the law says, what parents can do, and what happens in court.
| width="40%" | [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca] [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/resources/publications/ www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/resources/publications]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | This website provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Family Law."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JP Boyd on Family Law'''
| width="40%" | This resource, available online and in print, offers information about family law and the court process in British Columbia. It’s written in language that is easy to understand, and it has definitions for legal words and phrases.
| width="40%" | [http://wiki.clicklaw.bc.ca/index.php/jpboyd wiki.clicklaw.bc.ca/index.php/jpboyd]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | The Ministry of Justice manages BC's justice system. This website has information to help parents who are separating. It includes how parents can reach an agreement, what government services are available, and where parents can find programs to help them and their children cope.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca] or [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | On the homepage, select the quick link to "Family Law." Court Information Program for Immigrants provides free legal information to new immigrants and refugees. All content on the website is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Punjabi, and Hindi. Families Change: Guide to Separation & Divorce is a multimedia website that provides information on separation and divorce for children, teens, and parents. KidsBC.ca: Explore Changeville is a multimedia website that aims to help children cope with the changes in their lives when parents separate or divorce.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca www.justiceeducation.ca] [http://www.courtinformation.ca www.courtinformation.ca] [http://www.familieschange.ca www.familieschange.ca] [http://www.kidsbc.ca www.kidsbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 1-800-663-1919 [http://www.cba.org/bc www.cba.org/bc ]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | You may be able to get free legal help (legal aid) if you have a serious family law problem and:
*your legal problem is covered by legal aid rules,
*your income and the value of your property are below a certain limit, and
*you have no other way of getting legal help.
| width="40%" | [http://www.legalaid.bc.ca www.legalaid.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Mediate BC Society '''
| width="40%" | Mediate BC's Family Mediation Services can put you in touch with a mediator who can help you and your spouse work together to find a solution to legal problems and help you make an agreement.
| width="40%" | Phone: 1-604-684-1300 local 23 1-855-660-8406 [http://www.mediatebc.com www.mediatebc.com]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Parenting After Separation'''
| width="40%" | Parenting After Separation is a free three-hour workshop that helps parents make decisions about their separation that focus on the best interests of their children.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People’s Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People’s Law School offers free public legal education and information to the people of British Columbia. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include: ''Caring for Children'' outlines parents’ responsibilities and children’s rights, and where to get help. ''Child Support in BC'' booklet offers general information for parents about child support in BC. ''Talking about Abuse'' is a video series that can help non-English speakers understand how Canadian law defines family violence. It includes information on where people in BC can get help in their own language. You can order resources online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''VictimLink'''
| width="40%" | VictimLink can put you in touch with services that will help victims of violence.
| width="40%" | 1-800-563-0808 [http://www.victimlinkbc.ca/ www.victimlinkbc.ca]
|}

==Young people and the law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Child Abuse Prevention'''
| width="40%" | This website from the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development has two sections: Preventing Child Abuse in Your Community, and Just for Teens.
| width="40%" | [http://www.safekidsbc.ca www.safekidsbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Children & teens." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Children's Rights" and "Young People and Criminal Law."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 1-800-565-5297 [http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | This is the website of the BC Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for managing the justice system in BC. The website provides information on a wide range of legal topics and describes the government services available to help you. Select "Criminal Justice System" for information about young offenders.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca] or [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Gang Prevention is a website that aims to prevent youth involvement in gang activity. It provides information and resources to parents and youth. On the website, select "Youth, Families & Community." Legal Rights for Youth is a website for youth. It describes the legal rights for youth living in British Columbia.
| width="40%" | [http://www.gangprevention.ca www.gangprevention.ca] [http://www.legalrightsforyouth.ca www.legalrightsforyouth.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People’s Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People’s Law School offers free public legal education and information to the people of British Columbia. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include ''Consequences of a Youth Record'', a free booklet that explains what a youth record is, how long it remains, and what a record means for the youth. You can order booklets online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|}

==Elder law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''BC Association of Community Response Networks (BCCRN)'''
| width="40%" | Provides information and help to anyone who is being abused or neglected, or is supporting someone who is.
| width="40%" | [http://www.bccrns.ca www.bccrns.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support (BCCEAS)'''
| width="40%" | BCCEAS provides information about benefits and programs for seniors, financial and legal planning, elder abuse and where to go for help, and how to protect yourself against theft and fraud.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-437-1940 1-866-437-1940 Call between 9am and 1pm Monday-Friday [http://www.bcceas.ca www.bcceas.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Seniors." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Includes a script on "Elder Law, Elder Abuse and Seniors' Rights."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 1-800-565-5297 [http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | The Justice Education Society creates programs and resources that improve access to British Columbia’s justice system. They include ''Your Human Rights in BC'', a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca www.justiceeducation.ca] [http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry'''
| width="40%" | Nidus provides information to British Columbians about personal planning, including information on making a representation agreement or enduring power of attorney. At the homepage, select "Information" and "Self-Help."
| width="40%" | [http://www.nidus.ca www.nidus.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | People's Law School offers free public legal education and information to British Columbians. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include ''When I'm 64'', a series of three booklets with information about benefits and services available to seniors and about planning for your future. You can order booklets online.
| width="40%" | [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Public Guardian and Trustee'''
| width="40%" | The office of the Public Guardian and Trustee provides services to adults who need help managing their affairs.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-775-1007 [http://www.trustee.bc.ca/services/adult/index.html www.trustee.bc.ca/services/adult/index.html]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''VictimLink'''
| width="40%" | VictimLink can put you in touch with counselling and helping services, and people who may be able to help you find a safe place to stay.
| width="40%" | 1-800-563-0808 [http://www.victimlinkbc.ca www.victimlinkbc.ca]
|}

==Working in BC==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Employment." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Protection Against Job Discrimination" and "Applying for Employment Insurance Benefits."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]

|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Community Legal Assistance Society'''
| width="40%" | CLAS operates the BC Human Rights Clinic, which provides free representation to qualifying complainants who have cases before the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-622-1100 
Phone toll-free: 1-855-685-6222 
[http://www.clasbc.net www.clasbc.net]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Employment."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities. Booklets are free and are available online and in print.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|-
|}

==Renting a home==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Housing, tenancy & neighbours." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Community Legal Assistance Society'''
| width="40%" | CLAS will provide legal advice and some representation to low-income British Columbians who are facing eviction, foreclosure of their mortgage, expulsion from a co-op, or who want to challenge a Residential Tenancy Branch decision.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-685-3425 
Phone toll-free: 1-888-685-6222 
[http://www.clasbc.net www.clasbc.net]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Residential Tenancy" and "Neighbour Law."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Human Rights Coalition'''
| width="40%" | The BC Human Rights Coalition provides information and services to people in BC who need help to protect their rights under the BC ''Human Rights Code''.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-689-8474 1-877-689-8474 [http://www.bchrcoalition.org www.bchrcoalition.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Residential Tenancy."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | The Legal Services Society also has free print and online booklets in English and many other languages. At the website, select "Housing and tenancy."
| width="40%" | [http://www.lss.bc.ca/publications/ www.lss.bc.ca/publications]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities. Booklets are free and are available online and in print.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''PovNet'''
| width="40%" | Advocates help low-income people who have renting problems. PovNet is an online resource that can help you contact an advocate in your area. Visit the website and select "Find an Advocate."
| width="40%" | [http://www.povnet.org www.povnet.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Residential Tenancy Branch'''
| width="40%" | The branch of the BC government responsible for landlord-tenant matters. The website has free publications that contain important information.
| width="40%" | Vancouver: 604-660-1020 
Victoria: 250-387-1602 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-665-8779 
[http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca www.rto.gov.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre (TRAC)'''
| width="40%" | The Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre provides tenants with legal education and information about residential tenancy law. You can phone them if you have a problem with renting. You can also read their free publications, including the ''[[Tenant Survival Guide]]''. It is available in English or Traditional Chinese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-255-0546 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-665-1185 
[http://www.tenants.bc.ca www.tenants.bc.ca]
|-
|}

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

{{Learning about the Law Wikibook Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Learning about the Law Wikibook
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Find Out More in Learning about the Law

2015-11-02T22:22:19Z

Drew: /* Renting a home */

{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
==Fundamentals of law and criminal and civil law==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Canadian Bar Association'''
| width="40%" | "Our Court System and Solving Disputes" offers information describing our court system and ways to resolve legal disputes without going to court.
| width="40%" | [http://www.cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Dial-A-Law/Scripts/Lawyers-Legal-Services-and-Courts/432 www.cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Dial-A-Law]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. The resources available through Clicklaw are designed to be used by the public.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Family Law in BC'''
| width="40%" | Family Law in BC is a website that provides information and resources on a wide range of family law issues. It is produced by the Legal Services Society.
| width="40%" | [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/ www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | This is the website of the BC Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for managing the justice system in BC. The website provides information on a wide range of legal topics and describes the government services available to help you.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | The Court Information Program for Immigrants provides free legal information to new immigrants and refugees. All content on the website is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Hindi. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos – available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi – which teaches immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. Discrimination occurs when someone treats you differently based on your personal characteristics. 
Courts of BC is a website that uses information and videos to describe the structure and function of BC’s courts: Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. 
Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca/programs/court-information-program-immigrants www.justiceeducation.ca/programs/court-information-program-immigrants] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
[http://www.courtsofbc.ca/ www.courtsofbc.ca] 
[http://www.adminlawbc.ca/ www.adminlawbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | You may be able to get free legal help (legal aid) if:
*your legal problem is covered by legal aid rules,
*your income and the value of your property are below a certain limit, and
*you have no other way of getting legal help. 
The Legal Services Society also has free booklets on legal topics in English and many other languages.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-408-2172 
Phone toll-free: 1-866-577-2525 
[http://www.lss.bc.ca www.lss.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Victimsinfo.ca'''
| width="40%" | A website for victims and witnesses of crime in BC. The website gives people the information they need to deal with the consequences of crime.
| width="40%" | [http://www.victimsinfo.ca/ www.victimsinfo.ca]
|-
|}

==Family law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. The resources available through Clicklaw are designed to be used by the public. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Family law." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Family Law in British Columbia'''
| width="40%" | The Family Law in British Columbia website has important information about family matters including: child protection, child support, common-law relationships, divorce and separation, and family violence. Information is available in 12 languages. The website is produced by the Legal Services Society. The Legal Services Society has free print and online booklets on family law topics in English and many other languages, including: ''Living Together or Living Apart: Common-Law Relationships, Marriage, Separation, and Divorce'' is a booklet explaining the basics of family law in BC. It includes information about living common-law or being married, getting separated or divorced, and where to find help. The booklet is available in eight languages. ''Parents' Rights, Kids' Rights: A Parent's Guide to Child Protection Law in BC'' is a booklet explaining what happens if the Ministry of Children & Family Development has concerns about a child’s safety. ''For Your Protection'' is written for people who need protection from violent partners or ex-partners, but the information applies to anyone in an abusive relationship. "If Your Child is Taken" is a fact sheet explaining the steps that parents or guardians can take if the director of Children and Family Development removes their child or is planning to remove their child from the home. It describes what the law says, what parents can do, and what happens in court.
| width="40%" | [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca] [http://www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/resources/publications/ www.familylaw.lss.bc.ca/resources/publications]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | This website provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Family Law."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JP Boyd on Family Law'''
| width="40%" | This resource, available online and in print, offers information about family law and the court process in British Columbia. It’s written in language that is easy to understand, and it has definitions for legal words and phrases.
| width="40%" | [http://wiki.clicklaw.bc.ca/index.php/jpboyd wiki.clicklaw.bc.ca/index.php/jpboyd]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | The Ministry of Justice manages BC's justice system. This website has information to help parents who are separating. It includes how parents can reach an agreement, what government services are available, and where parents can find programs to help them and their children cope.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca] or [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | On the homepage, select the quick link to "Family Law." Court Information Program for Immigrants provides free legal information to new immigrants and refugees. All content on the website is available in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Punjabi, and Hindi. Families Change: Guide to Separation & Divorce is a multimedia website that provides information on separation and divorce for children, teens, and parents. KidsBC.ca: Explore Changeville is a multimedia website that aims to help children cope with the changes in their lives when parents separate or divorce.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca www.justiceeducation.ca] [http://www.courtinformation.ca www.courtinformation.ca] [http://www.familieschange.ca www.familieschange.ca] [http://www.kidsbc.ca www.kidsbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 1-800-663-1919 [http://www.cba.org/bc www.cba.org/bc ]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | You may be able to get free legal help (legal aid) if you have a serious family law problem and:
*your legal problem is covered by legal aid rules,
*your income and the value of your property are below a certain limit, and
*you have no other way of getting legal help.
| width="40%" | [http://www.legalaid.bc.ca www.legalaid.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Mediate BC Society '''
| width="40%" | Mediate BC's Family Mediation Services can put you in touch with a mediator who can help you and your spouse work together to find a solution to legal problems and help you make an agreement.
| width="40%" | Phone: 1-604-684-1300 local 23 1-855-660-8406 [http://www.mediatebc.com www.mediatebc.com]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Parenting After Separation'''
| width="40%" | Parenting After Separation is a free three-hour workshop that helps parents make decisions about their separation that focus on the best interests of their children.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People’s Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People’s Law School offers free public legal education and information to the people of British Columbia. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include: ''Caring for Children'' outlines parents’ responsibilities and children’s rights, and where to get help. ''Child Support in BC'' booklet offers general information for parents about child support in BC. ''Talking about Abuse'' is a video series that can help non-English speakers understand how Canadian law defines family violence. It includes information on where people in BC can get help in their own language. You can order resources online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''VictimLink'''
| width="40%" | VictimLink can put you in touch with services that will help victims of violence.
| width="40%" | 1-800-563-0808 [http://www.victimlinkbc.ca/ www.victimlinkbc.ca]
|}

==Young people and the law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Child Abuse Prevention'''
| width="40%" | This website from the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development has two sections: Preventing Child Abuse in Your Community, and Just for Teens.
| width="40%" | [http://www.safekidsbc.ca www.safekidsbc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website with legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Children & teens." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Children's Rights" and "Young People and Criminal Law."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 1-800-565-5297 [http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''JusticeBC'''
| width="40%" | This is the website of the BC Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for managing the justice system in BC. The website provides information on a wide range of legal topics and describes the government services available to help you. Select "Criminal Justice System" for information about young offenders.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justicebc.ca www.justicebc.ca] or [http://www.justicebc.ca/en/fam/index.html www.justicebc.ca/en/fam]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Gang Prevention is a website that aims to prevent youth involvement in gang activity. It provides information and resources to parents and youth. On the website, select "Youth, Families & Community." Legal Rights for Youth is a website for youth. It describes the legal rights for youth living in British Columbia.
| width="40%" | [http://www.gangprevention.ca www.gangprevention.ca] [http://www.legalrightsforyouth.ca www.legalrightsforyouth.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People’s Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People’s Law School offers free public legal education and information to the people of British Columbia. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include ''Consequences of a Youth Record'', a free booklet that explains what a youth record is, how long it remains, and what a record means for the youth. You can order booklets online.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|}

==Elder law==
{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''BC Association of Community Response Networks (BCCRN)'''
| width="40%" | Provides information and help to anyone who is being abused or neglected, or is supporting someone who is.
| width="40%" | [http://www.bccrns.ca www.bccrns.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support (BCCEAS)'''
| width="40%" | BCCEAS provides information about benefits and programs for seniors, financial and legal planning, elder abuse and where to go for help, and how to protect yourself against theft and fraud.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-437-1940 1-866-437-1940 Call between 9am and 1pm Monday-Friday [http://www.bcceas.ca www.bcceas.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Seniors." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Includes a script on "Elder Law, Elder Abuse and Seniors' Rights."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 1-800-565-5297 [http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Human Rights Coalition'''
| width="40%" | The BC Human Rights Coalition provides information and services to people in BC who need help to protect their rights under the BC ''Human Rights Code''.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-689-8474 1-877-689-8474 [http://www.bchrcoalition.org www.bchrcoalition.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | The Justice Education Society creates programs and resources that improve access to British Columbia’s justice system. They include ''Your Human Rights in BC'', a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.justiceeducation.ca www.justiceeducation.ca] [http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry'''
| width="40%" | Nidus provides information to British Columbians about personal planning, including information on making a representation agreement or enduring power of attorney. At the homepage, select "Information" and "Self-Help."
| width="40%" | [http://www.nidus.ca www.nidus.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | People's Law School offers free public legal education and information to British Columbians. Free booklets are available online and in print. They include ''When I'm 64'', a series of three booklets with information about benefits and services available to seniors and about planning for your future. You can order booklets online.
| width="40%" | [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. If you have a family law problem, you can contact Access Pro Bono Society of BC. It has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 1-877-762-6664 [http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Public Guardian and Trustee'''
| width="40%" | The office of the Public Guardian and Trustee provides services to adults who need help managing their affairs.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-775-1007 [http://www.trustee.bc.ca/services/adult/index.html www.trustee.bc.ca/services/adult/index.html]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''VictimLink'''
| width="40%" | VictimLink can put you in touch with counselling and helping services, and people who may be able to help you find a safe place to stay.
| width="40%" | 1-800-563-0808 [http://www.victimlinkbc.ca www.victimlinkbc.ca]
|}

==Working in BC==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Employment." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Protection Against Job Discrimination" and "Applying for Employment Insurance Benefits."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Human Rights Coalition'''
| width="40%" | The BC Human Rights Coalition provides information and services to people in BC who need help to protect their rights under the BC ''Human Rights Code''.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-689-8474 1-877-689-8474 [http://www.bchrcoalition.org www.bchrcoalition.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Employment."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities. Booklets are free and are available online and in print.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|-
|}

==Renting a home==

{| class="wikitable"
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Clicklaw'''
| width="40%" | A website that will take you to legal information and education from across BC. Clicklaw is operated by Courthouse Libraries BC. Start on the homepage (Solve Problems) and explore by topic. Select "Housing, tenancy & neighbours." You can use the Clicklaw HelpMap to find someone who can help with legal problems.
| width="40%" | [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca] [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Community Legal Assistance Society'''
| width="40%" | CLAS will provide legal advice and some representation to low-income British Columbians who are facing eviction, foreclosure of their mortgage, expulsion from a co-op, or who want to challenge a Residential Tenancy Branch decision.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-685-3425 
Phone toll-free: 1-888-685-6222 
[http://www.clasbc.net www.clasbc.net]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Dial-A-Law'''
| width="40%" | Has brief legal information on over 130 topics, available in English, Chinese and Punjabi. Dial-A-Law is a free service of the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia branch. You can listen on the telephone or online. You can also read the information online. Scripts include "Residential Tenancy" and "Neighbour Law."
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-4680 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-565-5297 
[http://www.dialalaw.org www.dialalaw.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Human Rights Coalition'''
| width="40%" | The BC Human Rights Coalition provides information and services to people in BC who need help to protect their rights under the BC ''Human Rights Code''.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-689-8474 1-877-689-8474 [http://www.bchrcoalition.org www.bchrcoalition.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''ImmigrantLegal.ca'''
| width="40%" | ImmigrantLegal.ca provides free legal information and education on legal topics for newcomers to Canada and the people working with them. The website is a project of the Immigrant Public Legal Education and Information Consortium. It is managed by the Justice Education Society. On the homepage of the site, select "Residential Tenancy."
| width="40%" | [http://www.immigrantlegal.ca www.immigrantlegal.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Justice Education Society'''
| width="40%" | Administrative Law BC - Early Resolution is a website that explains what tribunals are and how they work. 
''Your Human Rights in BC'' is a series of five videos for immigrants about human rights in BC and Canada. The videos are available in English, Mandarin and Punjabi.
| width="40%" | [http://www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution www.adminlawbc.ca/early-resolution] 
[http://www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc www.justiceeducation.ca/resources/human-rights-in-bc] 
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Lawyer Referral Service'''
| width="40%" | This service can help you find a lawyer who will meet with you for 30 minutes for $25.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-687-3221 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-663-1919 
[http://cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service cbabc.org/For-the-Public/Lawyer-Referral-Service]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Legal Services Society of BC'''
| width="40%" | The Legal Services Society also has free print and online booklets in English and many other languages. At the website, select "Housing and tenancy."
| width="40%" | [http://www.lss.bc.ca/publications/ www.lss.bc.ca/publications]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''MOSAIC'''
| width="40%" | Offers programs and services to help immigrants and refugees in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. 
The MultiLingoLegal.ca website features many legal publications in nine languages. MultiLingoLegal is operated by MOSAIC - a settlement and integration organization for immigrants and refugees in BC. 
The Multilingual Legal Glossary is an online dictionary that allows you to search for the meaning of legal words. It provides the meaning of the word in English, and translates it into Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-254-9626 
[http://www.mosaicbc.com www.mosaicbc.com] 
[http://www.multilingolegal.ca www.multilingolegal.ca] 
[http://www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary/ www.legalglossary.ca/dictionary]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''People's Law School'''
| width="40%" | The People's Law School provides people in BC with free public legal education and information. Visit our website or call us to find out how to access the education and information needed to exercise your legal rights and responsibilities. Booklets are free and are available online and in print.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-331-5400 
[http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca/ www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''PovNet'''
| width="40%" | Advocates help low-income people who have renting problems. PovNet is an online resource that can help you contact an advocate in your area. Visit the website and select "Find an Advocate."
| width="40%" | [http://www.povnet.org www.povnet.org]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Pro Bono Legal Services'''
| width="40%" | In these programs, lawyers volunteer to provide free legal advice to those who can’t afford a lawyer or can’t get legal aid. A good place to start is with the Access Pro Bono Society of BC, which has legal advice clinics across BC.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-878-7400 
Phone toll-free: 1-877-762-6664 
[http://www.accessprobono.ca www.accessprobono.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Residential Tenancy Branch'''
| width="40%" | The branch of the BC government responsible for landlord-tenant matters. The website has free publications that contain important information.
| width="40%" | Vancouver: 604-660-1020 
Victoria: 250-387-1602 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-665-8779 
[http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca www.rto.gov.bc.ca]
|- valign="top"
| width="20%" | '''Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre (TRAC)'''
| width="40%" | The Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre provides tenants with legal education and information about residential tenancy law. You can phone them if you have a problem with renting. You can also read their free publications, including the ''[[Tenant Survival Guide]]''. It is available in English or Traditional Chinese.
| width="40%" | Phone: 604-255-0546 
Phone toll-free: 1-800-665-1185 
[http://www.tenants.bc.ca www.tenants.bc.ca]
|-
|}

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

{{Learning about the Law Wikibook Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Learning about the Law Wikibook
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Introduction to Preparing Your Will

2015-10-28T23:29:31Z

Drew:

{{Writing Your Will TOC}}

==What is a Will?==

A Will is a legal document that leaves instructions about what you want done with everything you own at your death. Everything you own at your death is called the estate.

A Will gives you some control over what will happen to what you own when you die. By having a Will, you can make sure that the things you own go to the people you want to have them. A Will can be useful for people who outlive you. They can then feel sure that they are carrying out your wishes.

===When should I make a will?===

You can make a Will at any time. You should make a Will if you marry or if you start a family. Even if you don’t marry or have children, or don’t have many assets, it’s still a good idea to make a Will so that you can leave your belongings to the special people in your life.

Also, you should make a Will when you are in good health. To make a Will, you need to be mentally capable. Your mental capability can be affected by illness, accidents or drug treatment.

===Do I have to make a will?===

The law does not say that you have to make a Will. However, by making one you can make sure that your wishes about inheritance are respected.

If you die without a Will, there is no legal way of knowing what your wishes are. The Supreme Court then has to appoint someone to deal with your estate.

Example: Bill’s mother died and now he’s having problems. He can’t remember everything she told him about what she wanted done with the things she owned. He wishes she’d written a Will.

===What if I die without a Will?===

If you die without a Will, someone, usually a spouse or child, needs to file documents in the Supreme Court Registry that ask the court to appoint him or her to administer the estate. If there is no Will, the law sets out who will inherit. The estate goes to the government only if no relatives can be found.

If there is no one who can administer the estate, then the Public Guardian and Trustee takes responsibility.

===How is a Will different from power of attorney, or representation agreement?===

A Will takes effect only after you die. A power of attorney and a representation agreement are two types of authority you can give someone to act on your behalf for financial matters or health care decisions when you are still alive and cease to have effect when you die.

===How is a Will different from a living Will?===

Currently, a living Will has no legal effect except in cases of emergency medical treatment that goes against a person’s religious beliefs. A living Will is only an expression of your wishes if you become seriously ill or injured, and are unable to make healthcare decisions. You must make a representation agreement to allow someone to make healthcare decisions for you.

==What are the requirements for making a Will?==

* As of March 31, 2014, you only need to be 16 or over to make a legal Will.
* You need to be mentally capable of managing your own affairs.
* You need to agree with the contents of the Will at the time you make it. If someone misleads you or puts pressure on you, the Will is not legal.

You can make a Will on your own or have someone such as a lawyer or a notary help you. Your instructions in the Will should be clear and specific.

==What does a Will look like?==

The law sets out some rules that must be followed:

* The Will must be in writing, typed or handwritten.
* You must sign the Will at the end, in front of two witnesses, and you must tell the witnesses that the Will is yours. If you are unable to sign the Will because of illness or disability, you can ask someone to sign it for you in front of you, and in front of the two witnesses.
* The two witnesses must sign the Will in front of you and in front of each other.
* You and the witnesses should initial each page of the Will in front of each other.
* The Will must have the date included on it.

===How detailed do I have to get in my Will?===

You need to be clear about exactly who the beneficiaries are. You should not say, for example, that you want to leave everything to “hungry children in Africa.”

You don’t have to write down everything. You only need to be specific about who should get what if there is something of great value and you want to make certain it goes to a particular person.

Example: You might want to say who should get your great-great grandfather’s gold watch. You may not want to say exactly what should happen to your alarm clock.

===What doesn’t go into the Will?===

Burial service requests are not usually in a Will. You would want to provide your executor, family or friends with this information.

If you own assets in joint tenancy or joint bank accounts, they do not form part of the estate. These assets go directly to the spouse on your death.

Usually RRSPs and RRIFs don’t form part of the estate, because in the RRSP or RRIF you name a beneficiary. When you die, the bank or trust company transfers the RRSP or RRIF, or pays it out to the beneficiary you named when you signed the documents creating the RRSP.

If you have life insurance that names a beneficiary in the policy, the same thing happens. As of March 31, 2014, you can change the beneficiaries to your RRSP, RRIF or insurance policy in your Will and the bank or insurance company must follow that beneficiary designation if they are provided with a copy of the Will before they are asked to make a payment in accordance with their documentation.

===Who can be a witness to my Will?===

Your two witnesses must be at least 19 years old and must be mentally capable. Before March 14, 2014 a gift to a beneficiary, would be void if the beneficiary, or their spouse, witnessed the Will. Although that gift would be void the Will would still be valid. After March 14, 2014, A witness, or spouse, may witness a Will and receive a gift under that Will, as long as it is made clear in writing in the Will that the Will maker intended to make the gift to this individual who was also a witness or the spouse of witness.

The witnesses do not need to read the Will. All they have to do is watch you sign your name to the Will, and sign the Will themselves in front of you.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2014}}

{{Writing Your Will Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Writing Your Will
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Being an Executor

2015-08-27T16:37:07Z

Drew:

{{Cover Thumbnail
|filename = English - Being an Executor 2014 Cover.jpg
|title = ''Being an Executor''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}}
{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Being_an_Executor
}}
'''''Being an Executor''''' from [[People's Law School]] provides information about being an executor, which is the person named in a will to carry out the instructions in the will. This edition reflects the ''Wills, Estates and Succession Act'', which became law in 2014.

== Contents ==

*'''[[Introduction to Being an Executor|Introduction]]'''
** [[Introduction to Being an Executor#What is an executor|What is an executor?]]{{·}}[[Introduction to Being an Executor#Being an executor|Being an executor]]

*'''[[Ten Steps to Being an Executor|Ten Steps to Being an Executor]]

*'''[[Probate Checklist for Being an Executor|Probate Checklist]]

*'''[[Where to Get Help for Being an Executor| Where to Get Help]]'''

*'''[[Glossary for Being an Executor| Glossary]]'''

==About this Wikibook==

*[[About Being an Executor|About ''Being an Executor'']]
*Learn more about [[Clicklaw Wikibooks]] or visit other wikibooks from [[People's Law School]]

== About People's Law School==
The [[People's Law School]] is a non-profit charitable society whose purpose is to provide British Columbians with reliable information about their rights and responsibilities under the law.

:[[File:Peopleslawschoollogo-horizontal.jpg|frameless|none|150px|link=]]
:Suite 150 - 900 Howe Street
:Vancouver, BC V6Z 2M4
:Telephone: 604-331-5400
:Email: info@publiclegaled.bc.ca
:Website: [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]

{{Being an Executor Navbox}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Being an Executor

2015-08-27T16:36:29Z

Drew:

{{Cover Thumbnail
|filename = English - Being an Executor 2014 Cover.jpg
|title = ''Being an Executor''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}}
{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Being_an_Executor
}}

'''''Being an Executor''''' from [[People's Law School]] provides information about being an executor, a person named in a will to carry out the instructions in the will. This edition reflects the ''Wills, Estates and Succession Act'', which became law in 2014.

== Contents ==

*'''[[Introduction to Being an Executor|Introduction]]'''
** [[Introduction to Being an Executor#What is an executor|What is an executor?]]{{·}}[[Introduction to Being an Executor#Being an executor|Being an executor]]

*'''[[Ten Steps to Being an Executor|Ten Steps to Being an Executor]]

*'''[[Probate Checklist for Being an Executor|Probate Checklist]]

*'''[[Where to Get Help for Being an Executor| Where to Get Help]]'''

*'''[[Glossary for Being an Executor| Glossary]]'''

==About this Wikibook==

*[[About Being an Executor|About ''Being an Executor'']]
*Learn more about [[Clicklaw Wikibooks]] or visit other wikibooks from [[People's Law School]]

== About People's Law School==
The [[People's Law School]] is a non-profit charitable society whose purpose is to provide British Columbians with reliable information about their rights and responsibilities under the law.

:[[File:Peopleslawschoollogo-horizontal.jpg|frameless|none|150px|link=]]
:Suite 150 - 900 Howe Street
:Vancouver, BC V6Z 2M4
:Telephone: 604-331-5400
:Email: info@publiclegaled.bc.ca
:Website: [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]

{{Being an Executor Navbox}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Being an Executor

2015-08-27T16:35:38Z

Drew:

{{Cover Thumbnail
|filename = English - Being an Executor 2014 Cover.jpg
|title = ''Being an Executor''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}}
{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Being_an_Executor
}}

'''''Being an Executor''''' from [[People's Law School]] provides information about being an executor, a person named in a will to carry out the instructions in the will. This edition reflects the ''Wills, Estates and Succession Act'', which became law in 2014.

== Contents ==

*'''[[Introduction to Being an Executor|Introduction]]'''
** [[Introduction to Being an Executor#What is an executor|What is an executor?]]{{·}}[[Introduction to Being an Executor#Being an executor|Being an executor]]

*'''[[Ten Steps to Being an Executor|Ten Steps to Being an Executor]]

*'''[[Probate Checklist for Being an Executor|Probate Checklist]]

*'''[[Where to Get Help for Being an Executor| Where to Get Help]]'''

*'''[[Glossary for Being an Executor| Glossary]]'''

==About this Wikibook==

*[[About Being an Executor|About ''Being an Executor'']]
*Learn more about [[Clicklaw Wikibooks]] or visit other wikibooks from [[People's Law School]]

== About People's Law School==
The [[People's Law School]] is a non-profit charitable society whose purpose is to provide British Columbians with reliable information about their rights and responsibilities under the law.

:[[File:Peopleslawschoollogo-horizontal.jpg|frameless|none|150px|link=]]
:Suite 150 - 900 Howe Street
:Vancouver, BC V6Z 2M4
:Telephone: 604-331-5400
:Email: info@publiclegaled.bc.ca
:Website: [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]

{{Being an Executor Navbox}}

Clicklaw Wikibooks:Books/Preparing Your Will

2015-08-07T20:50:57Z

Drew:

{{saved_book}}

== Writing Your Will ==
:[[Introduction to Writing Your Will]]
:[[Overview of a Will and Writing Your Will]]
:[[What is an Executor and Writing Your Will]]
;Resources
:[[Where to get Help with Writing Your Will]]
:[[Glossary for Writing Your Will]]
;About this Wikibook
:[[About Writing Your Will]]

[[Category:Books|Writing Your Will]]

Template:Creative Commons for PLS

2015-07-25T01:24:44Z

Drew:

{|
|[[File:Creativecommonssmall.png|link=Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|alt=Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]] ''{{{title}}}'' © [[People's Law School]] {{{author}}} is, except for the images, licensed under a [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide#Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike|Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]].
|}

<noinclude>[[Category:Exclude in print]]</noinclude>

Template:Creative Commons for PLS

2015-07-25T01:24:03Z

Drew:

{|
|[[File:Creativecommonssmall.png|link=Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|alt=Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]]''{{{title}}}'' © [[People's Law School]] {{{author}}} is, except for the images, licensed under a [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide#Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike|Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]].
|}

<noinclude>[[Category:Exclude in print]]</noinclude>

About Power of Attorney

2015-07-25T01:04:37Z

Drew:

{{Power of Attorney TOC}}
This wikibook from [[People's Law School]] is for people who want to know - what is a power of attorney? Who can be a power of attorney? What are the attorney’s powers and responsibilities? This edition reflects changes to the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (2014).

{|
|[[File:Creativecommonssmall.png|link=Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|alt=Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]] ''Workplace Bullying and Harassment'' © People’s Law School is, except for the images, licensed under a Creative Commons [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Copyright Guide|Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 Canada Licence]]. This licence lets others share, reuse, remix, and build upon the work non-commercially, as long as they credit the copyright holder and license their new creations under the identical terms.
|}

The People’s Law School works within budget to keep publications up-to-date. However, the reader or service provider is responsible for using and interpreting information in this publication. ''You should not rely on this publication for legal advice. It provides general information only.''

== Acknowledgements ==

The content writer was Gayla Reid with updates from Hassan el Masri, and the legal review was done by Joan Letendre, a notary public practicing in British Columbia.

== The People's Law School ==

The [[People's Law School]] is a non-profit charitable society whose purpose is to provide British Columbians with reliable information about their rights and responsibilities under the law.

:[[File:Peopleslawschoollogo-horizontal.jpg|border|150px|link=]]
:Suite 150 - 900 Howe Street
:Vancouver, BC V6Z 2M4
:Telephone: 604-331-5400
:Email: info@publiclegaled.bc.ca
:Website: [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]

[[image:Power of Attorney cover image.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Cover of the print edition]]
{{Power of Attorney Navbox}}

__NOGLOSSARY__

Test People's Law School Publication

2015-07-21T00:09:39Z

Drew:

{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Wills_and_Estates
}}
This page is a test to compile three wikibooks from People's Law School into a single wikibook.

Test People's Law School Publication

2015-07-21T00:09:14Z

Drew:

{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Wills_and_Estates
}}
This page is a test to compile three wikibooks from [[People's Law School]] into a single wikibook.

Test People's Law School Publication

2015-07-21T00:06:59Z

Drew:

{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Wills_and_Estates
}}

'''''Wills and Estates''''' is a test to compile three wikibooks from [[People's Law School]] into a single wikibook.

== Contents ==

Test People's Law School Publication

2015-07-21T00:06:29Z

Drew: Created page with "{{Cover Thumbnail |filename = English - Being an Executor 2014 Cover.jpg |title = ''Being an Executor''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}} {{Export_Badge |SavedBookName = Wills_and..."

{{Cover Thumbnail
|filename = English - Being an Executor 2014 Cover.jpg
|title = ''Being an Executor''}}{{Clicklaw Wikibooks Badge}}
{{Export_Badge
|SavedBookName = Wills_and_Estates
}}

'''''Wills and Estates''''' is a test to compile three wikibooks from [[People's Law School]] into a single wikibook.

== Contents ==

Clicklaw Wikibooks:Books/Wills and Estates Collection

2015-07-19T01:16:55Z

Drew:

{{saved_book
| setting-papersize = A4
| setting-showtoc = 1
| setting-columns = 1
}}

== Wills and Estates ==
;Writing Your Will
:[[Introduction to Writing Your Will]]
:[[Overview of a Will and Writing Your Will]]
:[[What is an Executor and Writing Your Will]]
:[[Where to get Help with Writing Your Will]]
:[[Glossary for Writing Your Will]]
;A Death in Your Family
:[[Immediate Details following a Death]]
:[[Making the Funeral Arrangements]]
:[[Managing Affairs after the Death]]
:[[Bereavement Support]]
:[[Helpful Information When a Family Member Dies]]
:[[Glossary for A Death in Your Family]]
;Being an Executor
:[[Introduction to Being an Executor]]
:[[Ten Steps to Being an Executor]]
:[[Probate Checklist for Being an Executor]]
:[[Where to get Help for Being an Executor]]
:[[Glossary for Being an Executor]]

[[Category:Books|Wills and Estates]]

Clicklaw Wikibooks:Books/Wills and Estates Collection

2015-07-19T01:12:20Z

Drew: Created page with "{{saved_book | setting-papersize = A4 | setting-showtoc = 1 | setting-columns = 1 }} == Wills and Estates == ;A Death in Your Family :Immediate Details following a Death..."

{{saved_book
| setting-papersize = A4
| setting-showtoc = 1
| setting-columns = 1
}}

== Wills and Estates ==
;A Death in Your Family
:[[Immediate Details following a Death]]
:[[Making the Funeral Arrangements]]
:[[Managing Affairs after the Death]]
:[[Bereavement Support]]
:[[Helpful Information When a Family Member Dies]]
:[[Glossary for A Death in Your Family]]

[[Category:Books|Wills and Estates]]

Drew Jackson

2015-07-19T01:06:15Z

Drew:

<noinclude>{{Template:Clicklaw Wikibooks Contributor}}</noinclude>{{Contributor
| bio = '''Drew Jackson''' is the Executive Director of [[People's Law School]]. Combining backgrounds as a lawyer and a librarian, he is passionate about making legal information more accessible and understandable. Prior to joining People's Law School, he worked at Courthouse Libraries BC helping lawyers and the public access information and at Continuing Legal Education Society of BC developing legal publications and digital services for lawyers.

| name = Drew Jackson
| image = [[image:drewjackson.jpg|150px|left|link=|Drew Jackson]]
| organization = People's Law School
| website = [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
}}

<noinclude>
__NOGLOSSARY__
[[Category:Contributor Bio|Jackson]]
[[Category:JP Boyd on Family Law Contributors|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2012 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2013 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:JP Boyd on Family Law Advisory Committee (2013)|Jackson]]

</noinclude>

File:Drewjackson.jpg

2015-07-19T01:01:13Z

Drew: Drew uploaded a new version of "File:Drewjackson.jpg"

Drew Jackson

2015-07-19T00:56:56Z

Drew:

<noinclude>{{Template:Clicklaw Wikibooks Contributor}}</noinclude>{{Contributor
| bio = '''Drew Jackson''' is the Executive Director of [[People's Law School]]. Combining backgrounds as a lawyer and a librarian, he is passionate about making legal information more accessible and understandable. Prior to joining People's Law School, he worked at Continuing Legal Education Society of BC developing legal publications and digital services for lawyers and at Courthouse Libraries BC helping lawyers and the public access information.

| name = Drew Jackson
| image = [[image:drewjackson.jpg|150px|left|link=|Drew Jackson]]
| organization = People's Law School
| website = [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]
}}

<noinclude>
__NOGLOSSARY__
[[Category:Contributor Bio|Jackson]]
[[Category:JP Boyd on Family Law Contributors|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2012 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:Legal Help Guide Contributors 2013 Update|Jackson]]
[[Category:JP Boyd on Family Law Advisory Committee (2013)|Jackson]]

</noinclude>

Ten Steps to Being an Executor

2015-07-19T00:50:02Z

Drew:

{{Being an Executor TOC}}
There are ten steps the executor may take when the person dies. The order of the steps will depend on the situation.

==Step 1: Locate and read the will==

The Will may have instructions about the person’s wishes for organ donation, burial or cremation, and/or funeral or memorial service. When you agree to act as an executor, make sure you have an up-to-date copy of the Will. Keep it in a safe place where you can find it easily. Keep a written record of all your activity as executor. Keep all receipts and financial records of the estate.

Many people keep the original Will in a safety deposit box. Try to find the keys and tell the manager of the financial institution that you are the executor and are looking for the original Will. If you can’t find the key, the box can be drilled open for a charge. Some people leave the Will with their lawyer or Notary Public.

You can also check with the Wills Registry at Vital Statistics. Vital Statistics can check to see if the Will was registered and where the original Will may be located. You must always check the Wills Registry when you are applying for probate. Vital Statistics will send you a formal reply that you need for probate.

Division of Vital Statistics Victoria 1.250.952.2681 
Tel.: 604.660.2937 
Outside the Lower Mainland - 1.800.663.8328 
www.vs.gov.bc.ca 

If you can’t find the Will, you cannot proceed with probate. You must apply for a “grant of administration” to become the administrator
rather than the executor. The procedures are similar to those for probate, and you can use a self-help manual.

==Step 2: Arrange for burial or cremation==

Legally, the executor is responsible for arranging burial or cremation. Often people leave instructions about what they want. If there is any question about what the person wanted, the executor has the legal authority to decide.

==Step 3: Protect the assets==

As the executor it is your responsibility to protect the assets. For example, you may want to make sure they are insured and safe. You may wish to place valuable papers, cash, or jewellery in a safety deposit box. You may need to change the locks on the person’s house. If the person owned a business, you will need to arrange for its ongoing and proper management.

==Step 4: Obtain the death certificates==

The Division of Vital Statistics (see page 5 for contact information) handles this matter. They provide the forms you fill out and return. You may want to order more than one death certificate so you can deal with more than one institution at a time. There is a fee for each death certificate.

==Step 5: Probate the will==

Probate is the procedure that confirms the Will can be acted on and that you have the authority to act as executor. If the person owned real estate, probate is required.

Check with any institutions that hold the person’s assets to find out what they require. Sometimes financial institutions will not release the person’s money without confirmation of probate. It depends on how confident staff are that you have authority to act. If they know you and your relationship to the deceased, they may be satisfied just to see the death certificate and the Will.

==Step 6: Get probate forms==

The Probate Registry does not provide forms but the forms are set out in the new Probate Rules. New rules take effect March 31st, 2014. Forms are available in the Self Counsel Press publications, Probate Guide for BC and Probate Forms. Check for these products at local public library, bookstore, legal stationery store, or contact Self Counsel Press at:

1481 Charlotte Road, North Vancouver, V7J 1H1 
604.986.3366

You will need to sign some of the documents in front of a lawyer, notary Public, or “commissioner for taking affidavits.” All court registries have a “commissioner for taking affidavits.” Some community groups do as well. When you sign, it means you are swearing or affirming that the information you are providing in the document is true.

==Step 7: Notify the beneficiaries==

You must notify all the beneficiaries named in the Will and anyone else who may have a legal claim on the estate such as a common-law spouse, children, or a separated spouse. You don’t need to have a gathering to “read the Will,” like in the movies. However, you must send them a copy of the Will and a copy of your Notice of proposed application in relation to estate.

==Step 8: List the assets and liabilities==

The “Statement of Assets and Liabilities” is one of the forms you fill out for probate. It has four parts:

* a list of property (the person’s home);
* a list of personal property that forms part of the estate (cash, jewelry, furniture, Canada Pension, and death benefits);
* a list of debts related to any specific property.

Parts one and two ask the value of the assets at death. You need to give the amount or, if the asset has no value, put nil or none. To determine the market value of the person’s home, refer to the Property Assessment Notice. For other assets you may need to contact an appraiser or dealer.

Do not list assets that are owned in joint tenancy or that name a specific beneficiary, such as an RRSP. These do not form part of the estate.

If you cannot obtain information about all of the deceased’s assets you can still apply for a grant of probate or administration. The court registry will process your application and issue an “Authorization to obtain estate information”. This authorization can be taken to a financial institution and they will be obligated to provide you with the deceased’s financial information.

If you are not sure you know about all the debts, you may wish to advertise to creditors who have claims against the estate. After March 31,2014 you only need to publish a notice in the BC Gazette.

:'''Remember:''' If there is nothing to list under one of the headings on the form, write nil or none. Blank spaces may suggest that information is missing. This is one of the main reasons forms are rejected.

==Step 9: Apply to probate the will==

In most cases, you don’t actually go to court to get probate. You need to fill out specific forms. Then take them, along with the original Will and the reply from the Wills search, to the Probate Registry of any Supreme court of British Columbia.

To contact the local Probate Registry of the Supreme court look in the blue pages of your telephone book under Province of British Columbia - Court Services.

Or call Enquiry BC: 
Lower Mainland - 604.660.2421 
Outside the Lower Mainland - 1.800.663.7867 

You will need to pay a fee when you file the documents. At time of printing of this booklet the following fees applied:

* no fee for an estate where the gross value of the assets is less than $25,000.

*$208, plus $6 for each thousand (or portion) over $25,000 to $50,000, and plus $14 for each thousand (or portion) over $50,000.

These fees are subject to change. Call any Probate Registry in BC to check. To find the nearest Probate Registry call the Supreme Court of BC Probate Registry at: 
1.800.663.7867 
or Vancouver Probate Registry at the Supreme Court of British Columbia at: 
604.660.2876.

==Step 10: Obtain probate==

After the registry staff determine that your forms are in order and the fees are paid, you will get a “Grant of Probate.” This is a legal document that allows you to deal with the estate. If your application is rejected, the staff will tell you the reason. You can correct the problem and reapply.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2014}}

{{Being an Executor Navbox}}

{{Creative Commons for PLS
|title = Being an Executor
|author =
}}
__NOGLOSSARY__

Clicklaw Wikibooks Style Guide

2015-07-15T16:42:12Z

Drew: /* Bulleted lists */

{{GUIDEPAGE}}

This style guide for [[Clicklaw Wikibooks]] aims to help contributors produce Wikibooks with consistent and clear language, layout, and formatting. The goal is to make Clicklaw Wikibooks easier and more intuitive to use. See the [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Cheatsheet]] for shortcuts for commonly used wiki commands.

== Page titles and in page headings ==

=== Page titles ===

The title of a page should be in plain language (as a description of the topic or, for ''[[Legal Help for British Columbians]]'', a question), concise, and consistent with the titles of related pages.

The following points are important with page titles:
* Each page title on Clicklaw Wikibooks has to be unique, so make your page title as specific as possible. For example, use "Making Changes in Child Support" rather than "Making Changes".
* Use ''title case'' in page titles; that is, the first letters of all words should be capitalized except for articles (''the'', ''a'', ''an''), prepositions (''in'', ''of'', ''to'', ''from'', ''with'', etc.), and conjunctions (''and'', ''but'', ''for'', ''or'' and ''nor'').

=== In page headings ===

Headings within a page are produced by typing multiple equal signs. A primary section heading is written ==Words in heading==, a subsection below it is written ===Words in heading===, and so on (a maximum of five levels is possible). Spaces between the equal signs and the heading text are optional, and will not affect the way the heading is displayed. The heading must be typed on a separate line. Include one blank line above the heading, and optionally one blank line below it, for readability in the edit window. (Only two or more consecutive blank lines will add more white space in the public appearance of the page.)

The following points apply to in page headings:

* Use ''sentence case'' for section headings — that is, the initial letter of a title is capitalized; otherwise, capital letters are used only where they would be used in a normal sentence.
* Headings should not normally contain links, especially where only part of a heading is linked.
* Section and subsection headings should preferably be unique within a page; otherwise section links may lead to the wrong place.

==Capital letters==

In general terms, resist using capital letters, as they hinder the reader when overused.

===Legal terms and forms===
* Do not use capital letters for legal terms — e.g., "a retainer agreement is a contract between a lawyer and you"; "a will appoints an executor".
* Do not use capital letters for party names — e.g., "after the claimant files a claim, the respondent has 14 days to reply".
* Use capital letters for the names of prescribed court forms — e.g., "the claimant must file a Notice of Family Claim" — but do not use capital letters for general legal forms — e.g., "a power of attorney enables you to appoint someone to look after your financial affairs".

===Do not use capitals for emphasis===
Do not use capital letters for emphasis; where wording alone cannot provide the emphasis, use italics.

===Titles of works===

Titles of books and other print works are given in title case — that is, the first letters of all words should be capitalized except for articles (''the'', ''a'', ''an''), prepositions (''in'', ''of'', ''to'', ''from'', ''with'', etc.), and conjunctions (''and'', ''but'', ''for'', ''or'' and ''nor'').

===Calendar items===
* ''Months'', ''days of the week'', and ''holidays'' start with a capital letter — e.g., June, Monday, Christmas.
* ''Seasons'' are in lower case — e.g., last summer, next fall.

===Compass points===

Do not capitalize ''directions'' such as "north", nor their related forms.

Capitalize ''names of regions'' if they have attained proper-name status, including informal conventional names — e.g., "Lower Mainland". Do not capitalize descriptive names for regions that have not attained the status of proper names, such as "northern British Columbia".

===Institutions===

Names of particular institutions are proper nouns and require capitals, but generic words for institutions (e.g., "university", "college", "hospital", "high school") do not.

== Italics ==
===Emphasis===
Italics may be used ''sparingly'' to emphasize words in sentences (whereas bold is normally not used for this purpose). Generally, the more highlighting in a page, the less its effectiveness.

Use italics to bring attention or distinction to a term — e.g., "Whether a party has the right to bring a dispute under a particular act and before a particular court is a question of that party's ''standing'', whereas the ability for a court to hear particular disputes or questions involving particular types of parties is a question of ''jurisdiction''." or "The term ''ex parte'' means without notice."

Do not use quotations for emphasis.

===Titles===
Use italics for the titles of books or publications of greater length (including wikibooks). The titles of articles, chapters, and other short works are not italicized; they are enclosed in double quotation marks. (See [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Style Guide#Publications|examples below]].)

== Lists ==

=== Bulleted lists ===
Use bulleted lists to break up a list of items. Use numbered lists if the list is a series of steps.

When making a bulleted list, put an asterisk before each item to make it a bulleted list item:
:<code><nowiki>*bullet point</nowiki></code>
:<code><nowiki>*bullet point</nowiki></code>

This will appear as:
:*bullet point
:*bullet point

Where the bulleted list has items that are less than a full sentence, use commas between the items, start each item with a lowercase letter, and use a conjunction after the second-to-last item. For example:

:To qualify for disability benefits, you must:
:*be at least 18 years of age,
:*have a severe mental or physical impairment, and
:*need help or supervision because of the disability.

When a list is ''very'' brief, you can omit punctuation within the list. For example:

:To make scones you need:
:*flour
:*salt
:*butter
:*baking powder

Where the bulleted list has one or more items that are a full sentence or longer, use periods between the items. For example:

:Your best bets are:
:* [[Family Law in BC]], for forms, self-help materials and other legal information about family legal issues.
:* [[Family Justice Centres]], to make an appointment with a counsellor to discuss parenting arrangements, contact or support.
:* [[Duty Counsel|Family Duty Counsel]] (Provincial or Supreme), for some assistance on the day you have to appear in court.

Where a heading for a bulleted list item is appropriate, use a colon after the heading, and a period at the end of the item:
:* Common Experience Payment: A CEP is payable to all former students of Residential Schools.
:* Independent Assessment Process: Under this process, a victim of abuse at a Residential School may apply for additional compensation.

=== Numbered lists ===

Use numbered lists if the list is a series of steps.

When making a numbered list, put a pound sign (#) before each item to make it a numbered list item. Note that you should have no space between the pound sign and the beginning of the item, and no spaces between list items.

You can nest a bulleted list within a numbered list. Use the syntax #* for the bulleted items within the numbered list:
:<code><nowiki>#First numbered item</nowiki></code>
:<code><nowiki>#Second numbered item</nowiki></code>
:<code><nowiki>#*Bullet point</nowiki></code>
:<code><nowiki>#*Bullet point</nowiki></code>

This will appear as:
:#First numbered item
:#Second numbered item
:#*Bullet point
:#*Bullet point

==Quotation marks==

Use double quotation marks; use single marks for quotes within a quote.

Periods and commas go inside quotation marks, but semicolons and colons go outside.

Do not use quotations for emphasis. Use italics. [[Clicklaw Wikibooks Style Guide#Emphasis|See Emphasis]].

== References ==

=== Case law ===
When citing a case, use the citation standards in the Canadian Guide to ''Uniform Legal Citation'' (7th Edition), known as the ''McGill Guide''. Names or initials of the parties in the style of cause should be italicized, along with ''v.'', ''Re'', ''(ad litem)'', or any other part of the case name. Do not use bold. Cite Canadian cases to their neutral citation, and ensure that the link you provide is the short URL resource link provided by CanLII wherever possible. Where no neutral citation is available, use the citation that CanLII provides, and ensure that the parties in the style of cause are as indexed by CanLII. Where a case is not available on CanLII, cite to a printed reporter or electronic service.
Examples of acceptable citations:
:Case with neutral citation, available on CanLII: ''[http://canlii.ca/t/2d35m Domirti v. Domirti]'', 2010 BCCA 472
:Case with no neutral citation, available on CanLII: ''[http://canlii.ca/t/23fjd Wahl v. Pavle]'', 1985 CanLII 861 (BCCA)
:Case with no neutral citation, not on CanLII: ''Mareva Compania Naviera S.A. v. International Bulkcarriers S.A.'', [1980] 1 All E.R. 213

=== Publications ===
When referring to a publication that is a book or other longer work, put the title in italics:
:''Law Students' Legal Advice Program Manual''

When referring to a wikibook, put the title in italics:
:''JP Boyd on Family Law''

When referring to a publication that is a shorter work like a chapter or fact sheet, put the title in quotation marks:
:the fact sheet "Dealing with a Problem Roommate" and the pamphlet "Tenant Info for Renters in British Columbia"

For publication titles, use title case; that is, the first letters of all words should be capitalized except for articles (''the'', ''a'', ''an''), prepositions (''in'', ''of'', ''to'', ''from'', ''with'', etc.), and conjunctions (''and'', ''but'', ''for'', ''or'' and ''nor'').

== Links ==

=== Internal links ===
Make links only where they are relevant and helpful in the context; excessive use of hyperlinks can be distracting, and may slow the reader down.

To make an internal link, use two square brackets to open the link, followed by the name of the linked page, followed by two closing square brackets:

:<code><nowiki>[[Name of Page Here]]</nowiki></code>

Use a vertical bar "|" (the "pipe" symbol) to create a link while labeling it with a different name than the linked page. The first term inside the brackets is the name of the linked page (the page you would be taken to), while anything you type after the vertical bar is what that link looks like on the original page. Here are examples:

:<code><nowiki>[[I Want to Write a Will | writing a will]]</nowiki></code>
:<code><nowiki>[[Resource List | list of the best sources]]</nowiki></code>

These will appear as:
:* [[I want to write a will | writing a will]]
:* [[Resource List | list of the best sources]]

=== External links ===
Minimize using external links in the main body of a page; include only external links that are to essential resources or information. For other external links, look to include those in an external links section at the end, pointing to further information outside Clicklaw Wikibooks. The standard format for making an external link is:

:<code><nowiki>[http://www.courthouselibrary.ca Courthouse Libraries BC]</nowiki></code>
:<code><nowiki>[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap Clicklaw HelpMap]</nowiki></code>

These will appear as:

:* [http://www.courthouselibrary.ca Courthouse Libraries BC]
:* [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap Clicklaw HelpMap]

Where there is an external link that has a Clicklaw page, then link to the Clicklaw page. For example:

:<code><nowiki>the fact sheet [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/1012 "Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Benefit Application"]</nowiki></code>

This will appear as:
:* the fact sheet [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/1012 "Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Benefit Application"]

== Numbers ==
* In general, write whole numbers one through nine as words, and write all other numbers as numerals: one to five; 21 to 30.
* For currency, don't use numbers after the decimal point: $25.
* In general, use a comma to delimit numbers with four or more digits to the left of the decimal point: 1,050.
* Write 3% or three percent but not three % or 3 % with a space.
* Write telephone numbers with dashes: 1-866-565-4526.

== Dates ==
* Ordinary references to specific dates in a header or body paragraph should list the ''day, month, year,'' in that order: 10 February 2013.
* In the vast majority of circumstances, write out the full name of the month.
* If the date reference is within a table, chart or graphic or ancillary annotation where condensed formatting is desired, the three letter abbreviation for months is acceptable: 10 Feb 2013.

== Punctuation ==
=== Em dashes between words ===
Use an em dash when you want to indicate added emphasis, a break in a sentence, or an abrupt change of thought. For example, "In matters of importance, sincerity — not style — is the vital thing."

To form an em dash on most PCs, hold down the ALT key while typing 0151. On a Mac, hold down the ALT key and SHIFT key while typing the dash (-).

=== Spaces ===
The number of spaces following the terminal punctuation of a sentence in the wiki markup makes no difference, as the MediaWiki software condenses any number of spaces to just one when rendering the page. That said, modern practice is evolving towards just one space following the terminal punctuation of a sentence.

== Word usage ==

===Avoiding legalese===

Avoid using legalese. These words and expressions are to be avoided:
*in respect of
*to defray

===That and which===
Use ''that'' (not ''which'') to introduce a restrictive relative clause (a clause that is essential to the grammar of the sentence).

===Preferred usage for words===

This alphabetical list features the preferred usage for words:
*Aboriginal child
*Aboriginal parent
*Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC)
*arbitrator
*BC
*birth certificate
*Blue Pages (of the phone book)
*bylaw
*certificate of divorce
*Clicklaw Wikibook
*Convention refugee
*coordination
*cooperate
*court (as in "go to court"), but "Small Claims Court"
*court registry (but "Supreme Court Registry")
*Court Services Online
*Crown Counsel
*death certificate
*driver's licence
*duty counsel (but "Family Duty Counsel Program" when it's a specific program)
*ebook
*email
*Employment Insurance benefits
*Family Court
*family justice counsellor
*family law arbitrators
*family law mediators
*federal government
*fulfill
*Government Agent office
*Government of Canada (but government when used generically)
*Guide (as in "this Guide")
*homepage
*Indian band
*Indian reserve
*internet
*judge
*judicial case conference
*judicial review
*lawsuit
*legal aid representation ( but "Legal Aid Representation" when it's a specific program)
*legal notices section of the newspaper
*licence (noun)
*license (verb)
*Lower Mainland
*marriage certificate
*marriage commissioner
*Ministry of Children and Family Development
*Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
*Old Age Security
*online
*Parenting After Separation Course
*photo ID
*post office
*practice (noun)
*practise (verb)
*reasons for judgment
*Residential School
*Resource List (as in "see the [[Resource List]] in this Guide for helpful resources")
*Small Claims Court
*Supreme Court
*toll-free
*tribal council
*trustee in bankruptcy
*Vital Statistics Agency
*website
*well-being
*workers' advisers
*workers' compensation
*Yellow Pages

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Young People and the Law

2015-06-06T16:28:43Z

Drew: fixing lesson badge

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Young People and the Law Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}

This section looks at young people and the law.

==Legal rights and responsibilities of young people==

This chart shows when young people gain legal rights in BC.
::{| width="35%" class="wikitable"
!style="width: 30%" align="left"|''Right/Responsibility''
!style="width: 5%" align="center"|''Age''
|-
|align="left"|Be responsible for crimes ||align="center"|12
|-
|align="left"|Be sentenced for crimes under adult law ||align="center"|14
|-
|align="left"|Go to work ||align="center"|15
|-
|align="left"|Leave school ||align="center"|16
|-
|align="left"|Get married with permission of parent(s) ||align="center"|16
|-
|align="left"|Get married ||align="center"|19
|-
|align="left"|Get a driver's licence with permission of parent(s) ||align="center"|16
|-
|align="left"|Get a driver's licence ||align="center"|19
|-
|align="left"|Vote in a federal election||align="center"|18
|-
|align="left"|Vote in a provincial election||align="center"|18
|-
|align="left"|Drink alcohol ||align="center"|19
|-
|align="left"|Leave home without permission of parent(s) ||align="center"|19
|-
|align="left"|Buy cigarettes ||align="center"|19
|}

==Going to school==
[[File:Youth heads together.jpg | frame | right | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
All children between the ages of 5 and 16 years must go to public school every day.

This is not true if:
*the child goes to a private school,
*the child is at home studying lessons approved by the government, or
*the child is sick and can't go to school or there is some other good reason.

==Working ==

Children under 15 years of age may not work during school hours. They are not usually allowed to work at other times. A child under 15 can't work without special permission from the government. But children are allowed to do jobs such as babysitting to earn pocket money or to help their families. Children 15 and over can work. They have the same laws to protect them as adult workers.

==Getting married==

People 19 years old or older can marry. Young people between 16 and 19 can marry if their parents agree. Young people under 16 usually can't get married. They have to go to court and ask the judge for ''permission'' to marry. The judge will only agree if he or she thinks this is good for them.

==Young people and criminal law==

Sometimes children break the law. A child steals something, or damages someone else's property. What will happen?

The law says children under 12 years old can't be arrested or taken to court. If the police catch children younger than 12 doing something wrong, they take them home and tell their parents. The parents may get help at school or in the community.

The Canadian justice system recognizes that youth crime and adult crime need to be dealt with differently. There is a special law for children from 12 to 17 years old. It is called the ''[http://canlii.ca/t/7vx2 Youth Criminal Justice Act]''. This law says:
*People have the right to be protected from young people's crimes.
* Young people who break the law need to understand that what they did caused harm to the community. They need help to learn how to stay out of trouble and to contribute to the community in a positive way.
* Young people have the same legal rights as adults. The police have to tell young people about their rights and explain what is happening to them.
* Young people don't go to the same court as adults. There is a special youth court. The judge in youth court will make sure young people get a lawyer.
* People 18 years old or older who break the law are adults and have to go to adult court.

===What happens to youth who commit a crime ===

The first time a young person aged 12 to 17 years does something wrong, he or she will not usually have to go to court. The young person may get help from a local community group.

Maybe it's not the first time a young person has been in trouble. Or maybe it is something more serious. Maybe the young person had a weapon such as a knife or gun. Then he or she will have to go to youth court.

If the judge at the court decides the young person is guilty, the youth is called a young offender. The youth will have a youth record.

The judge might:
*make the young person pay a fine,
*make the young person pay for damage with money or with work,
*have the young person do some volunteer work in the community,
*let the young person go home, but someone from the court will check on the young person for up to two years, or
*have the young person go to jail if the crime is serious.

If a young person over 14 years old is accused of doing something very serious they may be sentenced as an adult and receive a tougher sentence than in youth court.

Examples of very serious offences include things such as murder and repeat violent offences.

In most cases the name of the youth who broke the law is not made public. However, in some cases it may be made public, such as when the youth is given an adult sentence for a serious offence.

===Young people and gangs ===

Some young people join gangs. A gang is a group of people who break the law. Some gangs look for young immigrants who don't speak English. They look for someone who has few friends and not much money.

At first, the gang members are good to the young people. They introduce them to new friends. Then they ask them to do something for the gang, such as stealing something.

Often, young people are afraid to say no or to leave the gang. They are afraid the gang will hurt them or their family.

Engaging Parents for Safer Youth is a project aimed at providing information to parents about youth and gangs. To download the ''Steering Kids Away From Gangs'' booklet, visit
[http://www.vsb.bc.ca/steering-kids-away-gangs www.vsb.bc.ca].

== Rules about driving ==

Young people over 16 years old can get a driver's licence if they pass the tests. Parents have to apply for the licence for someone under 19. If young people under 18 years old get a car, they can't register or get licence plates for it unless their parents sign the papers.

A young person driving a car has the same responsibilities as an adult. For more information about driving in BC see ''[[Driving in BC ]]'' or visit ICBC at [http://www.icbc.com www.icbc.com].

===Breaking traffic rules===

Sometimes young drivers break the traffic rules. What happens to the youth depends on how serious their actions are.

:'''For example''': Youth may be speeding, or fail to stop at a stop sign. They will get a ticket and may have to pay money.

If youth are caught driving dangerously, it is serious. They will be charged with a criminal offence and have to go to youth court.

===Street racing===

Street racing is a very serious offence. People under 18 years old will go to youth court. Drivers 18 years old and older go to adult court.

==Help for children ==

[[File:Youth together learning.jpg | frame | right | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
Many community groups have parenting classes. In these classes, parents learn about taking care of children.

They talk about ways to help their children with problems. They find out how to talk and listen to their children. They also learn about ways to ''discipline'' children without harming them.

Some community agencies offer parenting classes in other languages. Parenting classes can help parents to solve the special problems of raising children in a new country.

:'''For example''': Children usually learn new ''customs'' faster than their parents. Children also have a lot of pressure from kids at school to be more “Canadian.” Parents may feel that their children are behaving badly. They may worry that their children don't respect them anymore.

Many community agencies give information and advice. People can call these agencies when they have a problem and they don't know where to go for help. Workers at the agencies can help them find the right place to go.

There are also parenting programs in English and other languages on TV and radio. For more information about parenting classes contact your nearest community centre or visit [http://www.vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parenting.aspx www.vancouver.ca].

===Helpline for Children===

The Helpline for Children is '''310-1234''', free from anywhere in BC. A child or youth can call the Helpline for Children if they are being abused or mistreated at home, at school, in the playground, or anywhere else.

If you know a family where a child or youth is being hurt, or if you are afraid you may hurt a child, call the Helpline. Your call is ''confidential''.
*You can call the Helpline, at 310-1234, from anywhere in BC. ''No area code'' is required.
*If you are calling from a pay-phone, call the operator "0." This is a ''free call''. You don't need to pay. It will not show up on your phone bill.

===Youth Against Violence Phone Line ===

The Youth Against Violence Line is '''1-800-680-4264''', free from anywhere in BC. The Youth Against Violence phone line is a province-wide service that provides confidential help to young people who are affected by youth violence or crime.

Parents and members of the community can also call this line for help and information.

Youth who are worried about their safety, or who want to ''anonymously'' report a crime can call the Youth Against Violence phone Line.

===Help at school ===

Some schools have a police officer who works with the school. The officer comes to the school to teach students about safety and the law. The officer may work with students on school sports teams and in school clubs.

Sometimes students get into trouble at school. Maybe one of the students steals something. Then the police officer tries to solve the problem.

High schools also have counsellors. They help students with problems at school or at home.

They also help students choose school subjects and give advice about what to do when they finish school.

Many elementary schools and high schools have home-school workers. Sometimes parents want to find out about their child's school or what their child does there. Parents can talk to a home-school worker.

If you are worried about your children, talk to one of these people. Some school districts in BC have multicultural workers, or settlement workers who visit a school.

These workers can help immigrant students feel more comfortable in their new life in Canada. If necessary, they also help students deal with ''discrimination'' at school.

===Helpful rules to teach children ===

Talk with your children about their safety. Teach your children to:
*know their full name, address, and phone number,
*know the difference between a friend and a stranger,
*always check with the family before going anywhere,
*never answer the door if they are home alone,
*never tell anyone over the phone that they are alone, and
*call the Helpline for Children at 310-1234 if they are afraid and feel unsafe.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

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What Workers Need to Know about Workplace Bullying and Harassment

2015-06-06T16:28:04Z

Drew: fixing lesson badge

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Workplace Bullying & Harassment Lesson Module}}{{Workplace Bullying and Harassment TOC}}

This section deals with the duties that workers have under the BC ''[http://canlii.ca/t/84g2 Workers Compensation Act]'', and what workers can do if they experience or witness workplace bullying and harassment.

==Duty of workers==

It is the duty of every worker to take reasonable care to protect their own health and safety and the health and safety of others. The responsibilities of workers in relation to workplace bullying and harassment are the following:

* Avoid taking part in bullying and harassment of anyone you come into contact with at the workplace. This includes coworkers, supervisors and employers. It also includes anyone else who happens to be at the workplace, such as a client, a member of the public, or someone acting on the employer’s behalf.
* Report bullying and harassment if you experience or see it happening.
* Know what the employer’s policies are on workplace bullying and harassment, and follow those policies.

[http://www.worksafebc.com WorkSafeBC] has a toolkit of resources that provide practical tips and information about how to deal with bullying and harassment in the workplace.

You may wish to start with the toolkit's handbook, ''[http://www2.worksafebc.com/pdfs/Bullying/BK137.pdf Toward a Respectful Workplace]''. It has more information about what you can do if you are the target of workplace bullying and harassment or if you witness it.

==What can I do if I am the target or witness of bullying and harassment?==

If you experience workplace bullying and harassment you must report it. Look at the worker checklist in the [http://www2.worksafebc.com/Topics/BullyingAndHarassment/home.asp resources section] of WorkSafeBC’s website on bullying and harassment.

Here are some steps you can take.

===Find out about your workplace’s policy and complaint procedures===

Employers in BC are required by law to have a policy statement and complaint procedures on bullying and harassment. Find out about the policy and procedures in your workplace. Ask
your employer, the human resources manager or your union representative.

Look at the workplace policy statement to see if the behaviour meets the definition of bullying and harassment. Review the procedures. These should include the name of the person to contact to make a report. If you cannot find out what to do about the bullying and harassment, call the WorkSafeBC Prevention information line for help. The prevention information line accepts anonymous calls.

:'''WorkSafeBC Prevention Information Line'''
:Lower Mainland: 604-276-3100
:Toll-free within BC: 1-888-621-7233

===Make a record of what happened===

As soon as you can, write down what happened and record the following: who was involved, the date, time and place of the bullying and harassment, who if anyone saw it, and what was said and done. This information may be useful during an investigation. If you experience cyberbullying, keep hard copies of tweets, posts or emails for use in investigations.

===Get some advice===

You can get advice about what to do from the contact person named in the workplace bullying and harassment procedures. As well your human resources manager or union representative can
provide advice.

===If you feel safe and comfortable, talk to the bully===

If you feel safe and comfortable, you could approach the bully and make it clear the behaviour is not appropriate at the workplace.

For suggestions about what to say, see WorkSafeBC’s resources for an animated clip on [http://www2.worksafebc.com/Publications/Multimedia/Videos.asp?ReportID=37264 Worker-to-Worker Bullying and Harassment].

===Report the incident===

Report the incident to the contact person named in the procedures. Include as much information as possible. For example:
* the names of everyone involved,
* the names of anyone who saw what happened,
* the location, date and time of the incident or incidents,
* details of what was said and what was done, and
* any other evidence you have such as emails, handwritten notes, photographs or damaged property.

Report all criminal activity to the police, including physical threats, assaults, and criminal harassment such as stalking.

==What if the bullying and harassment continues?==

If the bullying and harassment continues after the employer has investigated and addressed it, contact the person identified in your workplace’s bullying and harassment procedures.

If you feel that your concerns were not addressed, talk to the next level of management, the union or your professional association. Phone the WorkSafeBC prevention information line for
help.

:'''WorkSafeBC Prevention Information Line'''
:Lower Mainland: 604-276-3100
:Toll-free within BC: 1-888-621-7233

==Where can I get more information?==

WorkSafeBC’s website on bullying and harassment has a [http://www2.worksafebc.com/Topics/BullyingAndHarassment/resources.asp?reportID=37260 toolkit of resources] that provide practical tips and information.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2014}}

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What Employers Need to Know about Workplace Bullying and Harassment

2015-06-06T16:27:36Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Workplace Bullying & Harassment Lesson Module}}{{Workplace Bullying and Harassment TOC}}

This section deals with the duties that employers have under the BC ''[http://canlii.ca/t/84g2 Workers Compensation Act]''. It outlines the steps employers must take in an effort to prevent or reduce workplace bullying and harassment.

==Creating a respectful workplace==

As an employer you can take steps to create a respectful workplace in a range of ways. For example:

* Build a workplace culture that embraces differences and promotes inclusion.
* Address bullying and harassment from the top down.
* Consult with workers and unions, where applicable.
* Understand how workplace structures and systems contribute to workplace bullying and harassment.

[http://www.worksafebc.com WorkSafeBC] has a toolkit of resources that provides practical tips and information for employers about how to deal with bullying and harassment in the workplace. You may wish to start with the handbook ''[http://www2.worksafebc.com/pdfs/Bullying/BK137.pdf Towards a Respectful Workplace]''.

If you are an employer in small business, see WorkSafeBC’s ''[http://www2.worksafebc.com/pdfs/Bullying/BullyingHarassmentSmallBusiness.pdf Small Business Guide on Workplace Bulling and Harassment]''.

==Duty to protect worker’s health and safety==

As an employer you have a duty to protect the health and safety of all workers who work for you, and any other workers who are at the workplace where your work is being carried out.

It is an employer’s duty to train workers and supervisors about bullying and harassment, and to prevent or reduce any bullying and harassment.

The steps you must take as an employer include:

# Understand your duties to prevent and address workplace bullying and harassment.
# Do not take part in bullying and harassment of workers and supervisors.
# Develop a written policy statement. This policy statement should state clearly that workplace bullying and harassment is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. You must make sure that workers are aware of the policy statement.
# Develop and implement policies and procedures for workers to report incidents and complaints of workplace bullying and harassment.
# Develop and implement procedures for investigating incidents and complaints.
# Inform and train workers and supervisors about the following:
#* how to recognize bullying and harassment,
#* how workers who experience or witness bullying and harassment should report it,
#* where workers can go for help and what help will be provided,
#* who the contacts are for reporting incidents, and
#* who is responsible for following up on complaints and incidents.

==Working to prevent and reduce workplace bullying and harassment==

As an employer you must take actions to prevent or reduce workplace bullying and harassment as much as possible. For example, if you are aware of circumstances that present a risk of workplace bullying and harassment you might need to:
* provide direction and supervision to affected workers,
* offer training on managing difficult situations, and
* make workplace arrangements to reduce the risks of bullying and harassment.

==Reporting incidents==
[[File:Workplace Bullying and Harassment Image.jpg | right | frame |link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com ]]

As an employer you must put procedures in place that state how you will deal with incidents of bullying and harassment in the workplace.

Your procedures should:
* provide a reasonable response,
* aim to fully address the incident,
* make sure future bullying and harassment is prevented or reduced as much as possible,
* indicate to workers how to report bullying and harassment,
* advise workers whom they should report to,
* state what should be included in the report,
* provide details on how an investigation will be conducted, and
* what follow-up will occur, including the time frame for addressing the behaviour and possible corrective actions.

The procedures about reporting should also include what the worker can do if the bully is:
* the employer, a supervisor, a person acting on behalf of the employer, or
* a client, a customer, or someone else outside the workplace structure.

If you have a small business with few personnel, then your procedures can say that workers can contact the WorkSafeBC prevention information line to report the incident.

:'''WorkSafeBC Prevention Information Line'''
:Lower Mainland: 604-276-3100
:Toll-free within BC: 1-888-621-7233

==Conducting an investigation==

The purpose of conducting an investigation is to determine whether bullying and harassment has occurred.

An employer needs to make it clear to workers that complaints will be treated seriously and addressed promptly. Investigations should:
* take place promptly and be as thorough as is necessary,
* be fair and impartial,
* be sensitive to everyone’s interests and maintain confidentiality as much as possible, and
* provide assistance with the process to the people involved if they ask for it or if they need it.

[http://www.worksafebc.com WorkSafeBC] has an investigations guide that includes sample questions employers can ask as part of an investigation process. It is available in the resources section of their website.

==Inspections==

WorkSafeBC will inspect workplaces to make sure employers have taken reasonable steps to develop and implement an effective program to prevent and address workplace bullying and harassment.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2014}}

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Key Facts about Workplace Bullying and Harassment

2015-06-06T16:27:04Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Workplace Bullying & Harassment Lesson Module}}{{Workplace Bullying and Harassment TOC}}

==How common is it?==

The Canada Safety Council reports:
* One in six employees has been bullied.
* One in five employees has seen a coworker bullied.
* Workplace bullying is four times more common than workplace discrimination.

It is very likely that workplace bullying and harassment is under-reported. It may be hard for people who are being bullied and harassed to identify what is going on. They may fear that the bullying and harassment will get worse if they report it.

==Who might be a bully?==

Anyone can be a bully. Some bullies are easy to identify, while others can operate more deceptively. The bully can be an employer, supervisor or co-worker. It can also be anyone the
worker comes into contact with at the workplace, such as a client or a member of the public.

Bullies are equally likely to be men or women. There are many reasons why someone acts as a bully. For example, it may be that the bully:
* wants to have power over someone,
* wants to stop someone from getting ahead in their workplace,
* is unable to get along well with others,
* has low self-esteem, or
* was not trained in how to manage.

==Who might be a target of bullying and harassment?==

A workplace bully is most likely to choose someone they see as a threat. The target is typically someone who is capable and well-liked at the workplace.

Sometimes people think that a bullied person would be someone who is weak, and who is less capable than the bully. This is not true. The bully will most often target someone who knows how
to get along well with others.

==What impact does workplace bullying and harassment have?==

Workplace bullying and harassment has a negative impact on workers and workplaces.

===How individuals are affected===

People who are the targets of bullying and harassment react in a range of ways which can include:
* shock,
* fear,
* anger,
* frustration,
* loss of self-confidence,
* loss of self-esteem,
* work-related panic or anxiety,
* family tension,
* low morale and productivity,
* injury on the job, and
* leaving the workplace.

===How workplaces are affected===

The health and safety of witnesses, coworkers and clients are also affected. Bullying and harassment can lead to:
* workplace stress,
* poor morale,
* more people taking time off work,
* a less productive workplace,
* injuries on the job, and
* workers leaving the job.

Bullies poison the workplace environment. Their comments and actions are bad for people and bad for business. They damage the trust and respect that people have for each other at the workplace.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2014}}

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Working in BC

2015-06-06T16:26:38Z

Drew: fixing lesson badge

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Working in BC Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}

This section looks at laws that apply to the workplace in British Columbia.

==BC employment standards==

In BC there is a law to protect you and your basic rights as a worker. It is called the ''[http://canlii.ca/t/8405 Employment Standards Act]''. This law protects most workers.

The ''Employment Standards Act'' and Regulations under the Act set minimum standards for working conditions in most workplaces in British Columbia and governs:
*certain aspects of hiring,
*the minimum wage rate,
*hours of work and overtime,
*statutory holidays (and pay),
*certain leaves of absence(including pregnancy leave),
*annual vacation (and pay), and
*ending employment.
[[File:Workeratdesk-350.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
The Employment Standards Branch is responsible for labour and employment law in the province, including the BC ''Employment Standards Act'' and Regulations under the Act.

Farm workers are protected by some but not all sections of the ''Employment Standards Act''. The Act excludes veterinarians, lawyers, babysitters and students.

A collective agreement between an employer and a union may replace certain sections for unionized employees. For more information,
contact the Employment Standards Branch.

The Employment Standards Branch has a range of useful information materials about the ''Employment Standards Act''. For more information, contact:

:'''Employment Standards Branch'''
:1-800-663-3316 
:[http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb] and [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide]

:'''Ministry of Jobs, Tourism & Skills Training and Responsible for Labour'''
:[http://www.gov.bc.ca/jtst www.gov.bc.ca/jtst]

===Accepting a job===

When you accept a job, you enter into a legal agreement (or contract) with your employer. Your employer agrees to pay you a salary and provide other benefits and entitlements in return for your work.

===Minimum wage===
There is a minimum wage law for most jobs. Each province sets a minimum wage, which is the lowest amount of money the employer may pay you for your work. In 2013, the minimum wage in BC is $10.25 per hour except for liquor servers, who receive a minimum wage of $9.00 per hour. The rates change from time to time.

Both full-time and part-time workers have the right to minimum wage. You can find information on the Employment Standards Branch website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Hours of work===
Unless you have an averaging agreement with your employer (described in the next paragraph), your employer must pay you overtime after eight hours of work in one day, or more than 40 regular hours in one week.

If you agree, your employer may establish a "time bank" in which your overtime entitlement would be saved up and paid out at a later date. For more information, read the section called “Overtime Pay” or access the factsheet on the Employment Standards Branch website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Averaging agreements===
Under an averaging agreement, you and your employer can enter into a written agreement that allows your employer to schedule your working time in a way that better meets the employer’s needs.

In effect, an averaging agreement allows your employer to compress your regularly scheduled work week into fewer, longer work days without paying the usual overtime.

To use a simple example: If you usually work 40 hours a week, on average, under a one-week averaging agreement, your employer could schedule you to work for 10 hours a day for the four busiest days of work. In this case, your 40-hour, five-day work week has been "averaged" to fit into four days of 10 hours each. No overtime is paid for the 10-hour days.

Averaging agreements can be complicated. To find out more contact the Employment Standards Branch or read the fact sheet on averaging agreements on the Employment Standards Branch website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Overtime pay===
Generally, your employer must pay you overtime:

*when you have no averaging agreement with your employer, and you are required to work more than 8 hours in a day or more than 40 hours in a week, or
*when you do have an averaging agreement with your employer, and your employer asks you to work more hours in a day than you agreed to in the averaging agreement.

The amount of overtime pay you get depends on the number of extra hours you work. You must be paid overtime after eight hours of work in one day. Your employer must pay you one-and-a-half times your regular pay for each hour you work after eight hours. This is called time-and-a-half.

Your employer must pay you two times your regular pay for each hour you work after 12 hours. This is called ''double-time''.

The Employment Standards Branch website has more information about the complicated overtime rules at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Minimum daily pay===
If you come to work as your employer asks you to do, you must be paid for at least two hours at your regular wage, even if you work less. If you have an averaging agreement and you agreed to work more than eight hours in a day, you must be paid for at least four hours, even if you work less.

If you come to work but you are unfit to work because for example you have been drinking or because you forgot your safety equipment, your employer does not need to pay you minimum daily pay.

===Meal break===
You can work for five hours without a break. After five hours, your employer has to give you a break of at least 30 minutes. An employer who requires an employee to work or be available for work during a meal break must count the meal break as time worked by the employee. Employers are not required to provide coffee
breaks.

===Holidays you get paid for===
There are ten public holidays in BC. They are called statutory holidays because the ''Employment Standards Act'' says they are holidays. Statute is another name for a law made by the government.

Normally, on a statutory holiday, you take the day off work but you still get paid. The statutory holidays are:

*New Year's Day
*Family Day
*Good Friday
*Victoria Day
*Canada Day
*British Columbia Day
*Labour Day
*Thanksgiving Day
*Remembrance Day
*Christmas Day

Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, and Boxing Day are not statutory holidays, though many employers will offer employees a day off with pay on those dates.

To get paid for the statutory holiday, you must:

*have been employed for at least 30 calendar days, and
*have worked on at least 15 of the 30 days before the statutory holiday.

If you work under an averaging agreement any time in the 30 days before the statutory holiday, you automatically have the right to the statutory holiday.

There are different payment rules which apply if you are required to work on a statutory holiday. The Employment Standards Branch website has information about this at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

===Vacation pay===
After your first 12 months of employment, employers have to give you at least two weeks paid vacation every year. If you have worked for the same employer for five years or more, your employer has to give you three weeks paid vacation every year. Usually you must take your vacation within 12 months of earning it. You may take it in periods of one or more weeks. Statutory holidays are in addition to annual vacation.

If you leave your job before you use up your vacation, your employer still has to pay you for that unused vacation time.

===Losing your job===
If you work for an employer for three months or less, he or she can let you go without giving you notice or extra pay. If you work more than three months, the employer must give you notice in writing before your job ends or must pay you ''compensation''. The amount of notice or compensation depends on how long you worked for the employer but is usually no more than 8 weeks.

:'''For example:''' Chui worked in a large store for four months. After Christmas, her employer said, "Today is your last day." She gave Chui one week’s extra pay.

Sometimes an employer does not have enough work for the employees or does not have money to pay the bills. The employer might lay off the employees for a few weeks.

A ''layoff'' is usually temporary. The employer doesn’t have to tell you ahead of time. If the layoff lasts longer than 13 weeks in a 20-week period, it means your employment has ended.

If the layoff is permanent and your employment has ended, the employer must give you compensation.

Employees can lose their job without notice or compensation for stealing from an employer, repeat lateness or harassing another employee.

==Quitting your job==
[[File:Workerwithboxes.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

Employees can quit a job any time. It is usual to give your employer notice that you are quitting. Two weeks of notice is considered customary but is not required by the ''Employment Standards Act''.

If you can, giving plenty of notice that you are quitting is a good idea especially if you want your employer to give a good report about you when you apply for another job. This is called giving a ''reference''.

It is important to note that if you quit your job, or if you are fired for misconduct, you will usually not be eligible to receive employment insurance (EI) benefits.

You can find out more about the laws about working in BC by looking at the ''Guide to the Employment Standards Act''. This guide is online at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/esaguide].

==Leave==
===Pregnancy leave===
A working pregnant woman has legal rights. For example, she can take up to 17 weeks off work without pay. This is called pregnancy leave.

Pregnancy leave begins no earlier than 11 weeks before the expected birth date and no later than the actual birth date.

Pregnancy leave ends no earlier than 6 weeks after the actual birth date, unless the employee requests a shorter period, and no later than 17 weeks after the actual birth date.

An employer can’t fire a woman because she is pregnant. And when she returns to work, she must get back her old job or a similar job for at least the same pay.

A working pregnant woman can apply for money from Employment Insurance during her pregnancy. There are rules about when a woman can apply and how much time she can have. She may be eligible for up to 15 weeks of benefits.

===Family responsibility leave===
An employee is entitled to up to 5 days of unpaid leave during each employment year to meet responsibilities related to:

*the care, health or education of a child in the employee's care, or
*the care or health of any other member of the employee's immediate family.

===Bereavement leave===
An employee is entitled to up to 3 days of unpaid leave on the death of a member of the employee’s immediate family.

Immediate family is identified as a spouse, child, parent, guardian, sibling, grandchild and grandparent of an employee and any person who lives regularly with the employee’s family.

For more information on leaves read the "Leaves Factsheet" on the Employment Standards website at [http://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/facshts/leave.htm www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb].

==Termination of employment==

The BC ''Employment Standards Act'' does not remove an employer's right to ''terminate'' an employee.

The Act requires that employees who are terminated are entitled to receive written notice or compensation based on length of service.

An employee who is terminated may be eligible for compensation based on the following formula:

*after three consecutive months of employment – one week's pay,
*after 12 consecutive months of employment – two weeks' pay, and
*after three consecutive years – three weeks' pay, plus one week's pay for each additional year of employment to a maximum of eight weeks.

The employer is not required to pay compensation if an employee is given advance written notice of termination equal to the number of weeks for which the employee is eligible. This notice must be in writing.

==Belonging to a union==

A union is a group of employees who join together to negotiate wages and working conditions with the employer. Everyone has the right to form a union if most of the employees want a union. Unions are for the protection of employees.

Your union and your employer will talk together. They will decide about pay, vacation time, sick pay, and other benefits. This is called collective bargaining. They will write a contract. This is called a collective agreement.

The collective agreement sets out your rights and working conditions. If you have a problem with your employer, talk to the union. The union will meet with the employer to discuss the concerns.

There are some rules for unions. The rules say what unions can and can’t do. In BC, this law is called the ''Labour Relations Code''.

==Getting hurt on the job==
[[File:Doctorwithclipboard.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
Sometimes workers get hurt on the job. Workers' compensation is a program run by WorkSafeBC. This program helps workers who are injured or get sick because of their work.

WorkSafeBC makes safety rules and sends inspectors to most workplaces to check if they are safe. Employers pay for this protection. There is no cost to workers.

Workers who can’t work because of an accident at work or illness may get money from the workers' compensation program. If a worker dies at work, the family may get compensation. Their website is at [http://www.worksafebc.com www.worksafebc.com].

==Employment Insurance (EI)==
''Employment Insurance (EI)'' is a federal government insurance program that all workers and employers pay into. It is often known just by its initials: EI.

EI is meant to help workers when they lose their jobs, or need time off work.

You have to work a certain number of weeks before you can apply for benefits.

There are several types of Employment Insurance benefits:

*Regular Benefits are for people who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.
*Maternity and Parental Benefits are for those who are pregnant, have recently given birth, are adopting a child, or are caring for a newborn.
*Sickness Benefits are for people who cannot work because of sickness or injury.
*Compassionate Care Benefits are for people who have to provide care or support to a family member who is gravely ill with a significant risk of death.

To apply for EI benefits, you need to fill out an application for EI at a Service Canada Centre or online. At the website, look for "Apply for Employment Insurance Benefits" under "Online Services and Forms."

:'''Service Canada Centre'''
:Vancouver: 1-800-622-6232
:[http://www.servicecanada.ca www.servicecanada.ca]

Call your local Service Canada Centre to find out if you need to make an appointment. They might ask you for your postal code to find out which office you should go to.

When you go, you should take:

*your social insurance card and proof of your immigration status,
*a second piece of identification, with your photo if possible, like your passport or driver’s licence, and
*your Record of Employment (ROE), if you have it, from every place you worked in the last 12 months.

If you do not speak English or French, take someone who can translate for you.

:'''Note:''' If you want to get regular EI benefits, be sure to apply as soon as you lose your job. Apply even if you do not yet have your Record of Employment (ROE). If you delay applying for benefits for more than four weeks after your last day of work, you may lose benefits.

If you lost your job because you quit or got fired, it will be difficult to get EI benefits. Check with your EI office for the number of weeks you need to have worked in your area. The Service Canada website also provides details at [http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/sc/ei/benefits/regular.shtml www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/sc/ei].

==Discrimination in employment==
[[File:Fingersonkeyboard.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
In Canada, there are laws to protect workers from discrimination. For example, an employer is expected to hire employees on the basis of skills, experience and education needed for the job.

It is discrimination if an employer doesn't give a job because of your gender, age, race, religion, birthplace, sexual orientation (gay, bisexual, or straight), marital or family status (single, married, or living common-law), mental or physical disability, or because you have a criminal record for an offence that is unrelated to the job you are applying for.

There are also laws to protect you against discrimination while you are on the job.

===British Columbia Human Rights Code===
The BC ''[http://canlii.ca/t/843q Human Rights Code]'' applies to all businesses, agencies, and services in BC. The Code protects people from discrimination in many areas of daily life, including discrimination in the workplace.

To make a complaint under the Code about discrimination in the workplace, the following must usually be true:

*you have been singled out and treated differently and poorly, compared to others, and
*you are being treated differently and poorly because of a personal characteristic, such as your race, colour, religious belief, gender, mental or physical disability, or sexual orientation.

For information about the ''Human Rights Code'' and how to file a human rights complaint, you can contact the BC Human Rights Coalition.

:'''BC Human Rights Coalition'''
:1202 – 510 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 1L8

===Where do you file a complaint?===

The BC Human Rights Tribunal is where you can make a complaint that someone has discriminated against you under the Code. The tribunal’s job is to resolve human rights complaints in a way that is fair to the person who made the complaint and the person whom the complaint is against.

:'''BC Human Rights Tribunal'''
:Vancouver: 604-775-2000
:Toll-free: 1-888-440-8844
:[http://www.bchrt.bc.ca www.bchrt.bc.ca]

===How do you file a complaint?===
To file a complaint you need to get a complaint form, fill it out, and file it with the tribunal within six months of the incident. These materials are available online at [http://www.bchrt.bc.ca www.bchrt.bc.ca].

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}
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Renting a Home

2015-06-06T16:25:07Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Renting a Home Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
In every province in Canada, there are laws about renting. You must follow these laws if you are a ''landlord'' or ''tenant''. Every province also has laws about buying and owing a home. In this section, you will learn about these laws in British Columbia.

==Landlords and tenants==
[[File:cutoutofhome.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

When you rent a home or an apartment, you are a tenant, also referred to as a renter. If you own a home or apartment and you rent it to someone else, you are a landlord.

There is a department of the provincial government that is responsible for making sure landlords and tenants follow these laws. It is called the ''[[Residential Tenancy Branch]]''.

===Find out what the law says===

Before you rent a place, find out what the law says. There are more rules contained in laws called ''Regulations''.

The main law that gives the rules for landlords and tenants is called the ''[[Residential Tenancy Act]]''. The Residential Tenancy Branch and Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre can provide you with important, free information.

:'''Residential Tenancy Branch'''
:Vancouver: 604-660-1020
:Victoria: 250-387-1602
:Toll-free: 1-800-665-8779
:[http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca www.rto.gov.bc.ca]

:'''Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC)'''
:Vancouver: 604-255-0546
:Toll-free: 1-800-665-1185
:[http://www.tenants.bc.ca www.tenants.bc.ca]

===Looking for a place to rent?===

If you are renting for the first time, or if you are new to BC, it is important to ask the landlord what is included in the rent — for example, heat, hot water, cable service, and laundry machines for your use. If you have any doubts or questions, call the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC).

When you look at a place to rent, the landlord will tell you how much the rent is. If you apply to rent the place, the landlord cannot charge you money to take your application. Doing this is illegal.

===Making an agreement to rent===

When a tenant finds a suitable house or apartment to rent, the tenant and the landlord make a contract. A contract is a legal agreement. A contract between a landlord and tenant is called a ''tenancy agreement''.

A tenancy agreement must follow the rules about renting in the ''[[Residential Tenancy Act]]'' and Regulations.

The Residential Tenancy Branch has a tenancy agreement form that you and your landlord can use. The form is called Residential Tenancy Agreement. It is available [http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca/documents/RTB-1.pdf from their website].

A tenant and a landlord can sign a month-to-month agreement or a fixed term agreement, also known as a ''lease''. If you sign a lease, you can’t move out until your lease is finished without paying extra money.

:'''For example:''' if you sign a one year lease, you have to stay until the end of the one year. If you decide to move out before the end of the lease, you may have to pay your landlord some extra money to cover the difference between what you agreed to in writing and what you now want to change.

A tenancy agreement must be in writing. The tenant and the landlord sign it and date it. The landlord must give the tenant a copy of the tenancy agreement within 21 days. The agreement will say how much the rent is and when you must pay it. The agreement should also include what the law says about such things as ''security deposits'', ''rent increases'', and repairs.

You should read the agreement before you sign it. Get someone to help if you need to.

===Move-in and move-out===

A tenant and a landlord do an inspection together when a tenant moves in and when a tenant moves out. They check to see that everything is working. Make sure you get a copy of this inspection from the landlord.

Before you move in or move out, call the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre for information about the rules for the inspection. The phone numbers are in the section called [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]].

==Rent and security deposit==
===Paying rent===

When you rent a house or apartment, you usually pay rent to the landlord once a month. Make sure you have proof that you paid the rent, such as a witness, a receipt from the landlord, or a cancelled cheque from your bank or credit union. Keep this proof in case there is a dispute about it later.

If your landlord wants to increase your rent, he or she must follow the rules. For example, the landlord cannot increase the rent if you have not been in the place for at least 12 months.

Landlords must give tenants three months' notice if they increase the rent. This means the landlord must tell you in writing three months before you start to pay the higher rent. The month you receive the notice doesn’t count, even if you receive notice on the first of the month.

The landlord must use a special form called [http://www.rto.gov.bc.ca/documents/RTB-7.pdf Notice of Rent Increase].

The landlord can only increase the rent once a year. In most cases, the landlord can only increase the rent according to a percentage set by the government. This percentage may change from year to year. In 2013, this percentage is 4.3%.

Check with the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre to see if this percentage has changed. Their phone numbers are in the section called [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]].

===Paying a security deposit===

When tenants move into a place, they usually must pay the landlord some extra money that they may get back when they move out. This is called a security deposit. It is to pay for any damage the tenant might do. It can’t be more than one-half of one month’s rent money. It is very important for the tenant to keep the receipt for the security deposit.

===Getting your money back===

When the tenant moves out, the tenant should give the landlord an address in writing saying where to send the security deposit. Once the tenant has given the landlord this address, the landlord must return the security deposit with interest within 15 days or ask the Residential Tenancy Branch for permission to keep some or all of it.

If the tenant damaged the place, the landlord can use some of the security deposit money for repairs. However, the tenant must agree to this in writing.

The landlord cannot keep the security deposit or part of it unless the tenant agrees in writing to pay for damages or unpaid rent. If the tenant does not agree in writing, the landlord must contact the Residential Tenancy Branch for permission to keep some of the security deposit money. For more information, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch.

==Repairs==
[[File:paintingfence.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
===Making repairs===

The landlord must put up a sign or tell the tenant in writing who to call if there is an emergency. If you have problems with the electricity, or the toilet doesn’t work, or there is no hot water, for example, the landlord must fix it. The law says a landlord must make such repairs.

Ask your landlord to make the repairs. It is a good idea to do this in writing and keep a copy of the letter.

If the landlord doesn’t make the repairs, phone the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre. Their phone numbers are in the section called [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]].

===Asking for help with repairs===

Some towns and cities have rules about keeping rental suites safe and healthy. You can phone your local city hall or town council and ask them about these rules.

You can use the Blue Pages of your phone book. Look under "Health," "Fire" or "Building Inspections." Or you can do a search for your local government on the Internet.

If you live in Vancouver, the phone number for the City of Vancouver Property Use Inspector is 604-873-7398.

When you call, ask if they will send an ''inspector''. An inspector can check your place and order the landlord to do the repairs.

:'''For example''': Susan Johnson lived in an apartment. The pipe from the toilet had water coming out, and the landlord didn’t fix it after Susan asked him to. Susan phoned city hall and told the people there about the problem.
:An inspector came to Susan’s apartment and looked at the problem. This inspection was free. The inspector told the landlord to fix the pipe right away. If an inspector tells a landlord to do something, he or she must do it.

Another place to get help is at the Residential Tenancy Branch. You can apply for a ''dispute resolution'' hearing for repairs.

==Resolving disputes==
===Residential tenancy dispute resolution===

If you have a problem with your landlord, you may be able to resolve the matter by talking to him or her. If you cannot work it out on your own you can access dispute resolution services through the Residential Tenancy Branch. A dispute resolution hearing is a bit like a court. You ask a Dispute Resolution Officer (DRO) to make a decision based on the law. You would need to have evidence in support of your argument.

A dispute resolution hearing can be held on the phone or in person. The DRO makes a decision. You and the landlord must obey the decision.

To find out more about dispute resolution, see the ''[[Tenant Survival Guide]]'', a free publication of the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC), available online and in print. Contact details are in the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

===Paying for damage===

When a tenant or tenant’s visitors damage a rented house or apartment, the tenant should tell the landlord right away. The tenant must pay for the repair. The landlord doesn’t have to pay for it.

:'''For example''': Bill Lee is a tenant living in a suite in an older house. One evening he had a party. One of his friends accidentally broke the big front window. In the morning, Bill called the landlord and explained what happened. The landlord called a company to replace the window and Bill paid for the new window. It cost $200.

===Letting the landlord in===

Landlords can ask to see the rented house or apartment. They may want to come once a month. Landlords must give a letter to the tenant 24 hours before they come. The letter must say what time between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. the landlord will come and why he or she is coming.

Sometimes there is an emergency. For example, you may have a fire or a broken water pipe. Then the landlord can come in without permission.

==Eviction information==

===For landlords===

A landlord can sometimes make a tenant move out. This is called eviction.

If you are a landlord, and you need to evict a tenant, you must:

*Give notice in writing to tell the tenant to move out. You can get a form at the Residential Tenancy Branch or your local Service BC Centre. The notice must contain reasons for eviction and explain to the tenant his or her right to dispute the eviction.
*Give the notice to the tenant yourself or send it by registered mail. Landlords are not supposed to just put the letter under the door.

Give the tenant proper notice. The law says how much time you have to give tenants before they must move out.

===For tenants===

If a landlord wants you to move out, the law says he or she must follow the rules and put the notice in writing. The landlord cannot just tell you to leave. If you are a tenant and you get an eviction notice, read it very carefully. You may disagree with the reason the landlord is evicting you. For example, you don’t think you’re too noisy, or you don’t have too many people living in your place.

You may want to try to stop the eviction. You can ''appeal'', which means you ask an official to decide. The eviction form says how much time you have to do that. ''Never ignore an eviction notice.'' You should ask for help or advice. See the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

===How much notice must a landlord give?===

The landlord must give:

*'''Immediate notice''' when the tenant is doing something that is likely to be dangerous to others. The landlord can apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for something called an order of possession.
*'''10 days notice''' when the tenant didn’t pay the rent.
*'''One month notice''' when the tenant is too noisy or has too many people living in the place.
*'''Two months notice''' when the landlord is going to renovate the apartment, or tear it down, convert it to something else, or live in it. If you get a two-month eviction, check with the Residential Tenancy Branch or the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre about compensation.

==Moving out==
[[File:movingout.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
When you want to move out of a house or apartment that you are renting, the law requires that you tell your landlord in writing. This is called ''giving notice''. You have to write your address and the date you will move out and sign your name.

If you are in a ''month-to-month'' tenancy, you must give it to the landlord at least one month

before you will move out. The first day of the month before you plan to move out is too late.

If you signed a ''fixed-term agreement'' or lease, you are not allowed to end your tenancy early. If you do, you may have to pay extra money to the landlord for breaking the tenancy agreement.

:'''For example''': Raj Gill has a month-to-month agreement and has decided to move. He plans to move out of his apartment on December 31. He will give his notice to his landlord on November 30 at the latest. Giving notice December 1 is too late. If he is late, Raj has to pay an extra month’s rent.

It's best to give the notice to the landlord or the building manager yourself. You may want to ask someone to go with you in case the landlord denies receiving the notice. Keep a copy of the notice.

If you mail the notice via registered mail, make sure you keep the receipt and a copy of the notice. Remember that if the landlord denies you gave proper notice, you will need evidence to prove that you did.

==Discrimination in renting==

Sometimes a house or apartment is for rent. The landlord can’t refuse to rent to people because of their gender, age, race, religion, birthplace, sexual orientation (gay, bisexual, or straight), marital or family status (single, married, or living common-law), or mental or physical disability.

Unless the building is reserved for people over 55 years old, a landlord can't refuse to rent to people because they have children. The landlord also can't refuse to rent to you because you are on welfare. BC law says this is discrimination.

A landlord can't charge a different price or make different rules for tenants of a different race, skin colour, religion, sex, and so on. This is the law. You can complain to the BC Human Rights Tribunal if you think a landlord has discriminated against you.

:'''BC Human Rights Tribunal'''
:Vancouver: 604-775-2000
:Toll-free: 1-888-440-8844
:[http://www.bchrt.bc.ca www.bchrt.bc.ca]

For information about the ''Human Rights Code'' and how to file a human rights complaint, you can contact the BC Human Rights Coalition:

:'''BC Human Rights Coalition'''
:1202 – 510 West Hastings Street
:Vancouver BC V6B 1L8
:[http://www.bchrcoalition.org www.bchrcoalition.org]

==Buying a home==
[[File:Homewithsoldsign.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
If you want to buy a home, you need to know how much you can afford. Home expenses include the purchase price, legal fees, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, heating costs and others expenses such as repairs.

It is a good idea to talk to your banker, credit union or mortgage broker to find out how much you can afford to pay for a home.

Most people cannot afford to pay for the entire cost of a home. A lender may lend you money to purchase it. Borrowed money for a home is called a mortgage.

The lender will also expect you to use some of your own money and make a down payment on the home you buy. Sometimes a lender will give you a pre-approved mortgage. This is a mortgage amount at an interest rate they guarantee for a period of time, often for 90 days.

You make a regular payment, most often monthly, to pay down your mortgage. Your monthly payment includes the interest that the bank charges for you to borrow their money.

===What's involved in buying a home===

Most homes in Canada are sold through real estate agents, also called realtors. A real estate agent can assist you through the purchase process including: negotiating the price, providing you with information on the community you want to live in and sharing information about the housing market in general.

The cost associated with working with an agent is usually covered by the seller of the home. It is a good idea to meet with a realtor before you decide if you would like to work with them.

When you find the property you want to purchase, a real estate agent will write an offer, called a Contract of Purchase and Sale. The agent will present your offer to the seller.

Once you and the seller have agreed on a price, the agent will prepare the necessary documents to complete the purchase. Your agent will take care of sending the documents to the bank in order to arrange for the mortgage that you had been pre-approved for.

It is a good idea to have the home inspected before you buy it. This may help you avoid big or small surprises such as a broken frame or mold in the walls. A realtor can help you find a home inspector. You can also find information about home inspectors online or in your local phone book. The buyer pays for the cost of the inspection.

You will need a lawyer or notary public to prepare the documents that transfer legal ownership from the seller to you. Your real estate agent may be able to suggest a lawyer or notary public for you to choose from. Lawyers and notaries can also be found online or in your local phone book.

===Owning a home: bylaws===

When you own your home, you must still obey the city laws. These are called bylaws. They deal with safety and health issues and allowable uses of the property.

They cover everything from rules about building a house to rules about making noise and maintaining fences. To find out more, read ''Buying a Home in British Columbia'', available online at [http://www.hpo.bc.ca/files/download/Bulletins/BuyingANewHome.pdf www.hpo.bc.ca].

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

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What Other Kinds of Taxes Do I Have to Pay?

2015-06-06T16:24:15Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Paying Taxes Lesson Module}}{{Paying Taxes in BC TOC}}
==What is sales tax?==

You pay sales tax on most things you buy or use. They include clothing, furniture, restaurant meals, phones, taxis, etc. There are a few exceptions. For example, there is no sales tax on groceries, rent, and public transit.

Sales tax consists of a federal sales tax (5%) and a provincial sales tax (7% on goods and services). (In 2013, British Columbia abandoned the harmonized sales tax, or HST, that combined the federal and provincial sales taxes into a single sales tax of 12%.)

==What is property tax?==

If you own a house, a condominium, a building or land, you pay property tax every year to the town or city government.

How much you pay in property tax depends on the value of the house and the land. Your city or town government will send you a letter that tells you how much you have to pay and when you have to pay it. You pay less property tax if:
* you live in the home yourself,
* you are a senior, or
* you live in northern and rural parts of BC.

You also pay a tax when you buy property. If this is the first home you own anywhere in the world, you may not have to pay this tax. Talk to the notary or lawyer who is helping you with your property purchase.

==What is duty?==

Duty is a tax you pay on things you buy in another country and bring into Canada. For example, if you bring in clothing you bought outside Canada or the United States or Mexico, you pay duty on it when you cross the border.

Newcomers who are moving to Canada can bring their own things with them. You do not have to pay duty on them but you have to pay duty on any item you bring in that has not been used.

When you travel, you can bring some things into Canada and not pay duty on them. The length of your absence from Canada determines the amount of goods you can bring back, without paying any duties:

* 24 hours or more: You can bring back goods worth CAN$200 without paying duty.
* 48 hours or more: You can bring back goods worth CAN$800 without paying duty.
* 7 days or more: You can bring back goods worth CAN$800 without paying duty, and the goods can follow your entry into Canada (such as by courier or mail).

There are special rules about alcohol and tobacco.

==What are consumer taxes?==

Consumer taxes are included in the price of things you buy. British Columbia has consumer taxes on things including tobacco, motor fuels, and short-term accommodations.

Carbon tax is a consumer tax on the use of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas that put carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Carbon tax rates are based on $30 per tonne of carbon dioxide put into the atmosphere. You pay a carbon tax when you buy gas for your vehicle.

==What are business taxes?==
There are special taxes for businesses. If you start a business in BC, you will need to pay business tax. Before you start the business, get some information and advice. It would be a good idea to talk to a lawyer. You may wish to start with Lawyer Referral. Lawyer Referral is a program where you can get advice and information for a fee of $25 plus taxes for the first 30 minutes.

{{FmboxPLS
| text = '''Lawyer Referral Program'''
Call: 
*Lower Mainland: 604-687-3221
*Elsewhere in BC: 1-800-663-1919
}}

Sometimes the government finds out a business is not paying taxes. The business may be forced to pay unpaid taxes, along with interest and penalty charges. If you do not pay tax, you can face criminal charges.

===Do I have to keep records?===

Keep your tax information for six years, including all the documents and all the receipts you used. The government has the right to ask you to provide this information to them. They may do an "audit." An audit is where they ask you to provide proof of your income and your ''deductions''.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2014}}

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What Is Income Tax?

2015-06-06T16:22:58Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Paying Taxes Lesson Module}}{{Paying Taxes in BC TOC}}
For most people, the biggest tax you pay is income tax. This is the tax you pay on the money you make from working.

The Canada Revenue Agency (''CRA'') is the federal government office in charge of all income tax. The CRA collects taxes for the federal government and for the provincial government.

Each year you must tell CRA how much money you made. You report your income on a tax form called an income tax return.

==What income tax must be paid on==
===Income tax on your pay at work===

When you get a job, you fill out a tax form. You get this form in a package called General Income Tax and Benefit Package. Your employer uses the information on your income tax form to work out how much tax money you owe. Each time you are paid, your employer must take the tax money out of your wages and send it to the government.

===Income tax on other money you make===

Many people make money in other ways. Some have a business. Some get money from renting a house or apartment. Some get money from investments.

If you get money in these ways, you have to report it the Canada Revenue Agency. They may ask you to pay taxes on this income once every three months.

You must report your income from inside and outside of Canada. If you made some money in another country, you have to include it on your income tax return. You may have to pay a large fine if you do not do this.

{{FmboxPLS
| text = '''For example:'''
Winston lives in Canada but earns money from his business in Hong Kong. Winston ''must'' declare that business income to Canada Revenue Agency.
}}

==Paying income tax==
===Who has to send in an income tax return?===

If you are a resident of Canada for part or all of a ''tax year'', you must file an income tax return if you:
* owe tax, or
* want to get some money back, or
* want to receive benefits, such as a pension, medical benefits or social assistance.

[[File:Paying Taxes Keyboard Image.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
===When do I have to send in an income tax return?===

You ''must'' send in your income tax return to Canada Revenue Agency by April 30 of the year after the tax year. If you have a business in Canada, you have until June 15 to send in your income tax return.

===How do I get an income tax return?===

If you have never sent in a tax return form in Canada, you can get the form from any post office or Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) office. Or you download the form from the [http://www.cra.gc.ca CRA website].

After the first time, the government will mail you a tax return form each year. Be sure to provide CRA with a change of address if you move. The form comes in a package called the General Income Tax and Benefit Package. The package includes information about how to fill out the form.

===How do I fill out my income tax return?===

Many people fill out their own tax return. For those confident enough to do it themselves, there is computer software that can help you fill out your income tax return.

Many community groups help new immigrants with tax return forms. This help is usually free. You can pay an accountant, bookkeeper, or a tax preparation company to fill out your tax return.

===How do I send in my income tax return?===

You can send in your income tax return form by mail or online:

* '''Mail:''' Many people send their income tax return by mail to the CRA, or drop it off at their local tax office.
* '''Online:''' You can fill out your income tax online at the [http://www.cra.gc.ca CRA website]. This service is called Netfile. You cannot use Netfile if you are filing an income tax return for the first time with CRA and the CRA does not have a complete date of birth for you on record.

==Does everyone pay income taxes?==

Sometimes people sell things for cash or work for cash. They offer you a lower price because they do not pay tax. This may seem like a way for you to save money, but it is against the law. You can also have problems if you pay this way. For example, if something goes wrong, you cannot get your money back.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2014}}

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Learning about Family Law

2015-06-06T16:21:45Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Marriage Separation and Divorce Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
Family law is the area of law that deals with marriage, relationship breakdown and children. The two laws in BC that you may need to know about are:
*''[[Family Law Act]]'': This is a provincial law that applies to all married and common-law couples.
*''[[Divorce Act]]'': This is a federal law that applies to married spouses only.

==Rights and responsibilities==
===Marriage and marriage-like relationships===
[[File:Extendedfamily.png | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
When you are married to someone, the law says you are a ''spouse''. As a spouse, you have legal rights and responsibilities about caring for children and caring for each other. You are also considered a spouse under the law in two other types of relationships. The three kinds of living arrangements in which you can be a spouse are:
#'''People who are married.''' To be legally married, you must have a religious or civil marriage ceremony. After that, you stay married until one partner dies or until the marriage is legally ended by a divorce.
#'''People who are not married but have lived together in a marriage-like relationship for two years or more.''' Many people call a marriage-like relationship a “common-law” relationship. It is not illegal to live in a common-law relationship while you or the other person is still legally married to someone else. A common-law relationship ends when you begin to live apart. No matter how long you live together in a common-law relationship, you are not married under the law.
#'''People who are not married but have lived in a marriage-like relationship for less than two years and have a child together.''' If you have a child together you have a responsibility to support that child. One parent may also be responsible for the support of the other parent.

===Getting separated===

Every year in BC, thousands of married and common-law couples stop living together. This is called ''separation''.

There is no such thing as a “legal separation.” If you’re married or in a common-law relationship, you become separated as soon as you and your spouse start living apart from each other with the ''intention'' of separating.

You don’t have to see a lawyer or go to court to be separated.

You might still live in the same house to save money, but you are usually considered separated if you don’t share things like meals, a bedroom, and social activities. You don’t need your spouse’s permission to separate.

===Getting divorced===
For couples who have been legally married, ''divorce'' is the only way to legally end the marriage.

You apply for a divorce by filling out documents and filing them with the BC Supreme Court. You don’t need your spouse’s ''permission'' to apply for a divorce.

The only legal reason for divorce is "marriage breakdown."

You can apply for a divorce saying you have "marriage breakdown" if:
*you or your spouse have lived separately for one year,
*you or your spouse has committed ''adultery'', or
*you were treated by your spouse with physical or mental cruelty.

You can apply for a divorce in BC even if you were married in another country. You will require proof that you were legally married, and that you or your spouse lived in BC for the 12 months before you apply for divorce.

Canada recognizes the following as proof of marriage from other countries:
*marriage certificate,
*marriage registration, or
*certified copies of marriage documents.

Some cultures have their own divorce ceremony, but you are not legally divorced in Canada unless you have a ''court order'' for divorce from Canada or another country.

If you and your spouse agree to get a divorce, the judge reviews the documents you filed with the court.

If you have children, the judge will want to see how you have both agreed to care for them and support them.

===Making an agreement===
[[File:Childreflecting.png | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
An agreement is a written ''contract'' that describes a couple’s decisions about the legal issues in their relationship.

Couples can make agreements at any time:
*before they move in together,
*while they’re living together, or
*when they separate.

An agreement you make before you move in together or while you’re living together includes your decisions about:
*who owns what,
*how much money each of you will put in to run the household,
*if you will have a joint household credit card or separate individual credit cards,
*how you will use and look after the things you buy together, and
*who will pay debts.

An agreement you make when you separate includes your decisions about parenting, support and property. For example, it describes:
*who the children will live with,
*how parents will spend time with the children,
*how parents will support the children,
*who will stay in the home or apartment, and
*how you will divide the things you own.

You and your spouse can make an agreement with each other about these decisions. Or you can go to court and ask the court to decide what should happen.

It’s best if you can settle your family law issues without going to court. Making an agreement saves time, money, and stress. It allows you to keep control of important decisions that affect your family.

Couples can often agree by talking together. But when you are separating you may find it difficult to agree. You can get help to come to an agreement.

====Mediation====

Mediation is a process where you and the other person ask someone who has special training to listen to what both of you have to say, and help you come to an agreement. The person with this special training is called a mediator.

A mediator can help you and your spouse work together to solve problems.
*A mediator encourages you and your spouse to listen to each other and helps you come up with ideas for resolving your issues.
*A mediator does not take sides or force solutions on you. A mediator does not make any of the decisions. You and your spouse make the decisions.
*Through the mediation process, you can find solutions that are acceptable to both of you.

If you have children, the mediator will help you reach an agreement that is in their best interests.

To find a mediator, contact:
:'''Mediate BC Society (Family Mediation Services)'''
:Phone: 1-604-684-1300 local 23
:Toll-free: 1-855-660-8406
:[mailto:fms@mediatebc.com fms@mediatebc.com]
:[http://www.mediatebc.com www.mediatebc.com]

====Family justice counsellors====

Couples can get help from ''family justice counsellors''. Family justice counsellors are government employees who work at Family Justice Centres across the province. Sometimes they are located in the local courthouse.

Family Justice Centers provide free services for families and couples with low incomes. They can help you and the other parent reach an agreement.

To contact a family justice counsellor, call Service BC:
:'''Service BC Contact Centre '''
:Vancouver: 604-660-2421
:Victoria: 250-387-6121
:Toll-free: 1-800-663-7867

====Collaborative family law====
Couples can agree to work together with lawyers who practise collaborative family law to find solutions that work for both spouses.

In collaborative family law, you and your spouse each have a lawyer. You and the lawyers participate in a series of meetings to try to come to an agreement.

To find a collaborative family law lawyer through the Lawyer Referral Service, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

====Finalizing your agreement====

When you come to an agreement, you write down what you’ve agreed to and both of you sign it.

Do not sign any agreement if you feel any pressure to do so. If your agreement deals with property, you must have your signatures witnessed by at least one other person.

To have your signature witnessed, ask a third person to:
*watch you sign the agreement, and
*also sign the agreement.

It’s also a good idea for both of you to get legal advice about what goes into your agreement and how it’s written.

To protect your legal rights and those of your children, you should each see a different lawyer.

You also need to see a lawyer if you’ve already signed an agreement and have questions about it.

To find a family law lawyer through the Lawyer Referral Service, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

==Care and decisions for children==

The BC ''[[Family Law Act]]'' changed in 2013. The law uses new terms to describe how parents care for and make decisions for children:
*guardians & guardianship,
*parental responsibilities,
*parenting time, and
*parenting arrangements.

This section looks at what these terms mean in BC.

===Guardians and guardianship===
[[File:Childconcerned.png | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

Parents are ''guardians''. They have ''guardianship'' of their children. This means they are responsible for caring for and making decisions for their children. Parents who live together after their child’s birth are both the child’s guardians.

If the parents separate, they are both the child’s guardians, unless an agreement or court order removes one of them as a guardian.

If a parent never lived with the child, then that parent is not a guardian unless he or she:
*regularly cares for the child, or
*is appointed as a guardian by a court order or agreement with the child’s other guardian(s).

People other than parents can sometimes be guardians, but they must have a court order naming them as guardians.

A guardian may name someone to be a stand-by guardian just in case he or she becomes unable to look after the child. A guardian may also name someone who will become the child’s guardian if the guardian dies.

===Parental responsibilities===
Parents have ''parental responsibilities''. These include making decisions about day-to-day care, as well as larger decisions about:

*health care,
*education,
*religious upbringing,
*extracurricular activities, and
*where the child lives.

When parents live together, they share these responsibilities as guardians. Parents need an agreement or court order if they want to change this arrangement.

Parents who separate may continue to share parental responsibilities as guardians. Or one guardian may take on one or more of the parental responsibilities.

Guardians consult with each other when making decisions, unless their agreement or court order says that only one of them is responsible for that particular decision.

===Parenting time===
If one of the guardians no longer lives with the children, that guardian has ''parenting time'' with the children.
===Parenting arrangements===
The arrangements between guardians for sharing parental responsibilities and parenting time are called parenting arrangements. Parenting arrangements can be recorded in an agreement or a court order.

:'''For example:''' When Susan and Joseph separated they made a written agreement that describes their parenting arrangements:
:*The children will live with Susan during the week. She will make the decisions about the children’s daily care when the children are with her.
:*The children will have parenting time with Joseph every weekend. He will make the decisions about the children’s daily care when the children are with him.
:*Susan and Joseph will continue to consult with each other about the larger decisions such as the children’s education and health care.

===Contact with the child===

Contact with the child is another important new term in family law. ''Contact with the child'' refers to the time that a person who is not a guardian spends with the child. A parent who is not the child’s guardian would have contact.

Grandparents, step-parents, and other people who may be important to the child can also apply to court to get contact with a child. The law recognizes that the child has a right to maintain these important relationships when parents separate.

People who are not guardians don’t have parental responsibilities, so they can’t make decisions about the child’s life, even during contact.

All guardians and the person with contact can agree to the contact, or the contact may be given in a court order. In some cases, there may be conditions on contact, such as having someone else supervise visits with the child.

:'''Important Note:''' If you get a divorce, you will find that some different words are used. The federal ''Divorce Act'' uses the word “custody” to describe daily care of the child and decision-making for the child. It uses the word “access” to describe contact with the child.

===Child's best interests===

All decisions about parenting arrangements and contact in court orders or agreements must be based on the ''child’s best interests''. These include:
*what the child wants and needs,
*who cared for the child in the past,
*whether there is a history of family violence, and
*what the parents are capable of (each one’s ability to carry out his or her responsibilities for the child).

When you are deciding your parenting arrangements after a separation, the law says you must only consider the best interests of the child. If you go to court, the judge can only consider the best interests of the child in making decisions about parenting.

===Children's property===

A child’s guardian is not automatically the guardian of the child’s property (including money). Guardians can manage children's property if it is a certain type of property or below a certain value. If not, a trustee is responsible for managing the child’s property. This is complicated. You would need to talk to a lawyer.

To find a family law lawyer through the Lawyer Referral Service, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.
[[File:Family of four smiling.jpg | right | frame | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

==Child support==

The money one parent pays to the other parent to help provide for the child’s daily needs is called child support. Each parent has a legal responsibility to support the child, until the child is at least 19.

Parents have a legal duty to support their children. Even if you have never lived with your child’s other parent, you have a legal responsibility to ''contribute'' to the support of your child.

If a man who has been named as the child’s father denies being the parent of the child, the court can order him to take a paternity test, also called a parentage test.

Stepparents and guardians who are not parents also have a duty to support the child. Parents have the primary responsibility to pay child support, then non-parent guardians, and then stepparents.

===A child should benefit===

The laws about child support are based on the idea that a child should benefit from both parents' ability to support him or her.

If a child is living with one parent, the other parent usually must pay support money. Even if a child spends equal or almost equal time with both parents, the parent with the higher income may have to pay child support to the other parent.

Child support, although paid to the other parent, is the legal right of the child. A parent cannot make an agreement saying that the other parent does not have to pay child support.

One parent cannot prevent the other parent from having contact with the child because he or she is not paying child support payments.

===Child Support Guidelines===

Parents must follow rules called the [[Child Support Guidelines]]. The guidelines help set a fair amount of support for children. The Child Support Guidelines are based on the income of the parent who must pay support.

The Child Support Guidelines considers such things as how much money the parent makes and how many children need support. The guidelines make sure that children continue to benefit from the financial means of both parents.

If you and the other parent cannot agree about child support amounts, a mediator can help you. To find a mediator, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law | Find Out More]] section.

While parents must follow the Child Support Guidelines, the rules are different for stepparents. They pay a child support amount based on:

*the length of time the child lived with the stepparent, and
*what the child’s living standard was while living with the stepparent.

===What if a parent refuses to pay child support?===

The provincial government has a free program called the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program.

The people who work in this program can help if a parent is not paying the money the judge said must be paid to support the children, or the money that he or she agreed in writing to pay.

If a parent does not pay child support, the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program may take the money directly from the parent’s pay cheque or bank account. Other things that may happen if a parent refuses to pay include:
*He or she may lose his or her driver’s licence.
*The Canadian government may take away his or her passport.

==Spousal support and property==

===Spousal support===

One spouse may need to ask the other for spousal support when they separate. The purpose of spousal support is to help with living expenses upon separation. Spousal support is usually paid for a limited period of time.

Spouses may make an agreement about spousal support. Or the spouse who wants support can apply to the court.

You must apply for spousal support ''within two years'' after you got an order for a divorce. If you were living in a common-law relationship, you must apply ''within two years'' of the date on which you separated.

If you are applying for spousal support, the court will consider:
*If you worked outside the home during the marriage or relationship.
*How long you and your spouse lived together.
*If you are able to support yourself.
*If you are or were at home with the children.
*Whether you earn a lot less than your spouse.
*If your spouse has the ability to pay.

===What if a spouse refuses to pay spousal support?===

The provincial government has a free program called the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program.

The people who work in this program can help if a spouse is not paying the money the judge said must be paid to support a spouse, or the money that he or she agreed in writing to pay.

===Dividing family property===

Unless you and the other spouse have an agreement that says something else, the rule is that all ''family property'' and ''family debt'' is divided equally.

The rule is the same for married people and for people in a common-law relationship of two years or more.

Family property is everything either you or your spouse own together or separately on the date you separate. This includes such things as:
*the family home,
*RRSPs,
*investments,
*bank accounts,
*insurance policies,
*pensions, and
*an interest in a business.

Family debts are debts you take on during your relationship that:
*you still owe on the date you separate, or
*you take on after your separation date to maintain family property.

A court will order that family property and debt be divided unequally only if it would be unfair to divide it equally.

Some things are not family property. They are ''excluded'' from the rule that the property must be divided equally. For example, these things are excluded:
*Property one spouse owned before the relationship started.
*Gifts and inheritances given to one spouse during the relationship.

[[File:Estranged parents with child.jpg | right | frame | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
But if the value of excluded property increased during the relationship, that increase in value is family property. For example, suppose you owned the house when your spouse moved in. When you separated, the value of the house had increased 100%. Your spouse would be entitled to half of that increased value.

You may need a lawyer’s help to figure out what is family property or debt. To find a family law lawyer, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law | Find Out More]] section.

If you think the arrangements about property and debt are unfair, you can go to court and ask a judge to divide family property or debt.
*If you were married, you must apply to the court to do this ''within two years'' after you got an order for divorce.
*If you were living in a common-law relationship of two years or more, you must apply to the court ''within two years'' of the date on which you separated.

People who are separating may want to know what happens to things such as pensions and medical and dental plans. You can find this information in the Legal Services Society publication, ''[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/1058 Living Together or Living Apart]''.

==Moving with a child==
The law in BC says that a guardian who wants to ''relocate'' with a child must give 60 days’ notice to any other guardian and to people who have contact with the child. This is because the move would affect the child’s relationship with them.

If there are disagreements about the move, the law says that you must make your best efforts to work out the disagreement. If you cannot agree, you have to go to court and the judge will decide whether or not a guardian can move with a child.

If you want to move, it’s wise to discuss your plans ahead of time with the other parent and anyone else who is a guardian or who has contact with the child. You may also want to talk to a lawyer to get advice about how likely it is that a judge might say you cannot move.

==Parents can get help==

===Parenting After Separation program===
[[File:Siblings smiling.jpg | right | frame | link= |Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

Separation is difficult. The lives of all family members are changing. When parents are separating, they are often upset and angry. They may argue and say a lot of angry and hurtful things to each other. Their children also feel upset.
:'''For example:''' Kwan and Mi Hi were married and they had one child. After several years, Mi Hi became unhappy and dissatisfied with the marriage. She wanted to separate from Kwan. Kwan was hurt and angry. He didn’t understand why Mi Hi was unhappy. They had many arguments. Kwan didn’t want to separate.

:Both Kwan and Mi Hi were worried about their daughter. How could they talk to her about their marriage break-up?

Parenting After Separation is a provincial government program that offers free sessions in many BC communities. This is a three-hour workshop about how to solve problems with the other parent.

At the workshop, a trained facilitator will present information about separation, including:
*the impact of separation on you and your children,
*how to help your family adjust to change, ways for you and your children’s other parent to communicate,
*how to keep your children out of the middle of conflict,
*options for resolving family disputes, including mediation, counselling and the court process,
*how the child support guidelines work, and
*resources in your local community for parents and children.

In most BC Provincial Court locations, you must attend a Parenting After Separation session before you can get a court order. You will not be asked to attend the same session as your spouse. Parents in smaller communities can take the Parenting After Separation course online.

Even if you don’t have to go to a Parenting After Separation workshop, you can attend the course.

Phone Service BC to find out about Parenting After Separation workshops in your area.
:'''Service BC Contact Centre '''
:Vancouver: 604-660-2421
:Victoria: 250-387-6121
:Toll-free: 1-800-663-7867

For more information about Parenting After Separation, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law | Find Out More]] section.

==Protection from violence in the family==
Family violence includes:
*physical abuse: using physical force,
*sexual abuse: forced sexual contact of any kind, or
*psychological and emotional abuse: actions that cause mental and emotional harm.

If you are at risk of family violence, you may need to get a ''protection order'' from the court. The protection order is meant to protect you and your children from violence carried out by another family member. Either you, or someone else on your behalf, can apply to the court for the order.

Protection orders can, for example, stop the family member who is violent:
*from contacting you,
*from visiting the family home, and
*from owning a weapon.

If the family member does not obey the protection order, it is a criminal offence. Police can enforce the protection order under the ''Criminal Code''.

If there is a history of family violence or you or your children are at risk, you may be able to get the help of a legal aid lawyer from Legal Services Society. See the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find out More]] section.

If you plan to go to court on your own to get a court order, you may want to get some help from family duty counsel.

For information about family violence, watch the ''[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/2707 Talking about Abuse]'' video series. This series can help non-English speakers understand how Canadian law defines family violence. It provides information on where people in BC can get help in their own language.

For more information and help, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section. It links you to resources that can help anyone who may be a victim of family violence.

==Separation and sponsorship==
===If you are a permanent resident===
If your spouse (married or unmarried) sponsored you to come to Canada and you are now a permanent resident (landed immigrant), you can stay in Canada even if you leave the marriage or common-law relationship.

Your sponsor:
*cannot make you leave Canada,
*does not have the right to keep your children or your property, and
*still has a legal responsibility to help support you and your children.

To find out more about what could happen when a sponsorship does not work, read "[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/2449 If Your Sponsor Abuses You]," published by the Legal Services Society. It explains what to do if the person who sponsored you is unwilling or unable to support you, and you are unable to support yourself.
===If you are not a permanent resident===
If you are not a permanent resident in Canada and you and your sponsor separate, you will need to get immediate advice about your immigration status. If possible, contact an immigration lawyer.

To find an immigration law lawyer through the Lawyer Referral Service, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law | Find Out More]] section. If there has been violence in the relationship, tell the lawyer.

==Going to court==
Couples who cannot reach an agreement may have to go to court. The court process focuses on helping you to resolve as much of your case as possible without having a trial.
:'''Note:''' The section on the [[Criminal and Civil Law and the Role of the Courts|Role of the Courts]] discusses the levels of court. It is helpful to get legal advice if you are going to court.

Here are some things to expect in the court process:

*'''Exchanging information''': The law requires you and your spouse to provide each other with "full and true information" so you can resolve your family law dispute. The court rules set out what information you must provide before you go to court.
*'''Meeting with a child support clerk''': The court might send you to see a child support clerk to help you figure out how much child support should be paid in your case.
*'''Meeting with a family justice counsellor''': In some Provincial Court locations, you meet with a family justice counsellor before you go to court. The family justice counsellor helps you look at your options and can give you legal information.
*'''Meetings to discuss options for settling your case''': In BC Supreme Court, you have a meeting called a judicial case conference with a judge or master (a court official). This happens before you can ask the court for an order that your spouse does not agree with. In Provincial Court, you may have a meeting with a judge called a family case conference. This happens before you can have a court hearing.
*'''A temporary solution''': You may need a ''temporary'' solution for parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, and who lives in the family home. You can apply to the court for what is called an ''interim order''. An interim order is for a limited time.

===If you and your spouse can agree===
If you and your spouse can reach an agreement, you can get what is called a consent order. You will be able to get a consent order without appearing in court as long as all your documents are in order and the judge is satisfied that you have arranged for the care of and support of your children.

===If you and your spouse cannot agree ===
If you and your spouse cannot agree, there is a trial in court. A judge decides the issues that you can’t agree on. The judge puts the decision into a final order. Both parents must do what the court order says.
:'''For example:''' Maria and Eduardo couldn’t agree. They went to court. The judge decided that their child should live with Maria. The judge also decided how often Eduardo could see the child. By law, Eduardo and Maria must obey the court order.
[[File:Child with arm raised.jpg|right|frame|link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

==When children need protection==
Sometimes parents don’t take care of their children. Maybe they leave the children alone, or hurt them or don’t give them enough food. This is child abuse.

If you are aware of a possible case of child abuse, the law requires you to contact the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development. Call the Helpline for Children: 310-1234 (no area code needed). Your action can prevent further child abuse and help the family.

When you call the Helpline for Children, you talk to a social worker who is willing to listen and take action. Actions to protect a child may include:
*providing or arranging support services to the family, or
*supervising the child’s care in the home.

If the social worker thinks that the child is in danger, the social worker can remove the child from the home to a safe place. When this happens, the social worker and the parents have to go to court. The social worker has to prove in court that the child was in danger.

The parents have the right to argue that their child should not be taken away from them. The parents should have a lawyer. If they can’t afford a lawyer, they should contact the Legal Services Society. For contact details see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

The law is to protect children. The judge has to decide if the child needs protection. Then the judge will decide what will happen to the child.

For information about child protection, see two Legal Services Society publications: the booklet ''[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/1060 Parents’ Rights, Kids’ Rights]'', and the brochure "[http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/1048 If Your Child is Taken]."

For more information and help, see the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law | Find Out More]] section.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

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Fundamentals of Canadian Law

2015-06-06T16:21:10Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Fundamentals of the Law Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
In this section, you will learn about Canada's laws, your rights and responsibilities, and how the laws are made.

==Canada's laws==

Canada's laws express the values and beliefs of Canadian society. They aim to protect individuals and provide stability for society as a whole. They also aim to make sure there is a peaceful way to settle disputes.

Many Canadians have come to Canada from other countries. Some of these countries have laws and legal systems that are different from Canada's.

When people come to Canada, they bring ideas about the law that they learned in their own countries. They may be surprised to find there are many differences here. It is important for newcomers to know that the laws are not the same, and to understand the differences.

[[File:Canadian flag.jpg | right | frame | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
===Where do Canadians get their ideas about the law?===

Canada's legal system and political system first came from Britain. We also brought our ideas of personal rights and freedoms from Britain. In Quebec, parts of the legal system came from France.

===Canada's constitution===

The Canadian constitution is the set of rules that define the powers of the government and the rights of the people. It says how we want to govern ourselves and structure our society. The constitution includes the ''[http://canlii.ca/t/8q7l Charter of Rights and Freedoms]'' (often called the "Charter"). The Charter lists Canadians' most important rights and freedoms.

The constitution, which includes the Charter, is the highest law in Canada. This means that governments must respect it whenever they pass a law, make a policy, or have day-to-day dealings with us.

==Rights and freedoms==

A person’s rights and freedoms are very important to Canadians. All Canadians have some important freedoms. In Canada, you can:

*speak freely,
*believe in any religion or no religion,
*meet with or join any group, except a terrorist organization,
*live and work anywhere in Canada, and
*participate in peaceful political activities.

===Legal rights===

Everyone in Canada has legal ''rights''. Some of your important legal rights are:

*the right to be thought of as ''innocent'' until proven ''guilty'',
*the right to have a fair ''trial'' in court, and
*the right not to suffer cruel or unusual ''punishment''.

===All Canadians are equal===

''Equality'' is one of the most important values in Canada. Everyone in Canada is equal under the law. Laws in Canada apply to all people, including the police, judges, and those who work for the government.

People in Canada do not get better jobs because of the amount of money they have, their social class or gender. For example, in Canada, women can have the same jobs as men and all the same responsibilities.

===Human rights===
[[File:Older couple reviewing papers.jpg | right | frame | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

There are many Canadian laws that protect your rights. Laws about human rights are one example.

Canada’s human rights laws protect you against unfair ''discrimination'' when you:
*use public services,
*buy or rent a home,
*look for a job, or
*deal with any government agency.

Discrimination is against the law in Canada. To discriminate against someone means to treat him or her differently from other people in a way that is unfair.

The law says that no one can discriminate against you because of your:
*gender,
*age,
*race or birthplace,
*religion,
*sexual orientation (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual or straight),
*marriage or family status (single, married, or living common-law), or
*mental or physical disability.

For example, it is against the law to discriminate against women. Women in Canada are equal to men. They are equal partners in the family, in business, in law, and in government.

Racial discrimination is illegal in Canada. It is against the law for anyone to discriminate against you because of the colour of your skin, or the country you or your ancestors came from.

==Your responsibilities==
[[File:Hands together in circle.jpg | right | frame | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

In the same way that the law protects you from discrimination, the law says you have a ''responsibility'' to respect other people’s rights. For example, your right to freedom of religion means you must respect the beliefs of others.

You must respect the rights of other people even if you don’t like or don’t approve of those rights.

:'''For example''': Irena doesn’t approve of gay couples. Her culture and religion doesn’t accept them. However, in Canada, she cannot discriminate against them.

You also have responsibilities to the community as a whole. Because you can make use of ''social services'' in Canada, you must pay your share of the taxes that finance those services. Canadian laws aim to balance rights and responsibilities.

:'''For example''': When you rent a place to live, you have the right to the quiet enjoyment of your home. Your neighbours also have this right. This means you have a responsibility not to make noise that disturbs your neighbors. And your neighbors have a responsibility not to make noise that disturbs you.

==The rule of law==

The rule of law means that we recognize and accept that we need laws to ''regulate'' society. We must find a way to live together peacefully. Laws exist to help us do this. The rule of law is a fundamental principle of Canadian democracy. The Charter states that the rule of law is one of the principles upon which Canada was founded.

The rule of law means that the law applies equally to everyone. No one is above the law. Our ''politicians'', police officers, and wealthy individuals must all obey the law. Under the rule of law, Canadians have a responsibility to respect the laws even if they disagree with them. This means you must obey a law even if you don’t like it.

==Who makes the laws?==
[[File:Diverse group of people.jpg | right | frame | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

Canadians vote for people to represent us in government. The people who get the most votes become our elected representatives. It is their job to make the laws.

When Canadians vote, we give consent to the party that wins the ''election'' to make our laws.

The elected politicians can propose new laws or bills. A "bill" is what a law is called before it becomes a law. These bills are debated in order to decide whether or not they should become laws. The goal of the debate is to explore all possible effects of a bill, both good and bad. After the debate there is a vote. If the majority of our elected representatives vote for the bill, it can become a law.

===Changing the laws===

If you want a law to change, you can work with other Canadians to seek change through peaceful means. Canadians write letters, organize political protests, work with political parties, or join groups of people who have the same ideas as they do. Working in this way, groups may succeed in persuading the government to change a law. Changing a law takes a lot of time and work but Canadians believe that slow, peaceful change is best.

===Voting===

To vote in any election you must:
*be a Canadian citizen,
*be at least 18 years old on election day, and
*be on the voters’ list.

To vote in a BC election, you must have lived in the province for the six months before voting day. To find out how to get on the voters list for a federal election, go to Elections Canada, online at [http://www.elections.ca www.elections.ca].

==Levels of government==

In Canada there are three levels of government: ''federal'', ''provincial'', and ''municipal''. The Canadian constitution describes what the federal government is responsible for, and what the provincial governments are responsible for. The provincial governments can give some of their responsibilities to the municipalities.

We have a federal government for the whole country. It is called the Government of Canada. The elected representatives of the federal government are Members of Parliament, often called MPs. They meet in Ottawa. The leader of the federal government is called the Prime Minister.

The Parliament in Ottawa has two sections: the House of Commons and the Senate. The House of Commons is where Members of Parliament debate and vote in order to make laws. The purpose of the Senate is to review proposed laws to make sure they are the best they can be.

British Columbia, like other provinces, has a provincial government. In BC the elected ''representatives'' of the provincial government are Members of the ''Legislative Assembly'', often called MLAs. They meet at the legislature in Victoria. The leader of the provincial government is called the Premier.

We also have local government in our cities and towns. The elected representatives are called councilors. They meet at City Hall or Town Hall. The leader of the municipal government is called the Mayor.

===Each level of government has different responsibilities===

The federal government has the power to make laws that affect the whole country. Examples are citizenship and immigration laws and criminal laws.

Provincial governments, such as the Province of British Columbia, have the power to make laws that apply only in that province. Examples are landlord and tenant laws, and laws about employment.

Municipalities, cities and towns have the power to make local laws about such things as streets, parking and noise. The laws for municipalities, cities and towns are called ''bylaws''.

===Canada has a Queen===

Queen Elizabeth II, who lives in Britain, is the Queen of Canada. The elected representatives have the political power in Canada. The Queen’s role is symbolic.

Canadians often say “The Queen” to mean the elected government of Canada and all of its laws. This is because the Queen and her representative in Canada, the Governor-General, are the symbolic head of Canada.

All new Canadians promise to be loyal to the Queen and her laws.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

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Family Violence and Abuse

2015-06-06T16:19:51Z

Drew:

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'''''Family Violence and Abuse''''' from [[People's Law School]] contains information on forms of abuse, legal protection options and the criminal court process, and where you can get help or more information.

== Contents ==

*'''[[Overview of Family Violence & Abuse|Introduction]]'''
**[[Overview of Family Violence & Abuse#What is abuse|What is abuse?]]{{·}}[[Overview of Family Violence & Abuse#Some forms of abuse are crimes|Some forms of abuse are crimes]]{{·}}[[Overview of Family Violence & Abuse#Cycle of Abuse|Cycle of abuse]]{{·}}[[Overview of Family Violence & Abuse#Children who Witness Abuse|Children who witness abuse]]

*'''[[Keeping Your Family Safe from Family Violence & Abuse |Keeping your family safe]]'''
**[[Keeping Your Family Safe from Family Violence & Abuse#If you are in immediate danger|If you are in immediate danger]]{{·}}[[Keeping Your Family Safe from Family Violence & Abuse#If you feel unsafe|If you feel unsafe]]{{·}}[[Keeping Your Family Safe from Family Violence & Abuse#What if my sponsor is the abuser|What if my sponsor is the abuser?]]{{·}}[[Keeping Your Family Safe from Family Violence & Abuse#What if I am sponsoring the abuser|What if I am sponsoring the abuser?]]{{·}}[[Keeping Your Family Safe from Family Violence & Abuse#If you are not in immediate danger|If you are not in immediate danger]]

*'''[[Find out about Services for Family Violence & Abuse |Find out about services]]'''
**[[Find out about Services for Family Violence & Abuse#Counselling services|Counselling services]]{{·}}[[Find out about Services for Family Violence & Abuse#Transition and safe houses|Transition and safe houses]]{{·}}[[Find out about Services for Family Violence & Abuse#Develop a safety plan|Develop a safety plan]]

*'''[[Leaving a Relationship and Family Violence & Abuse |What if I plan to leave the relationship]]'''
**[[Leaving a Relationship and Family Violence & Abuse#What about the home|What about the home?]]{{·}}[[Leaving a Relationship and Family Violence & Abuse#What can I do about money|What can I do about money?]]

*'''[[Legal Protection Against Family Violence & Abuse |Legal protection against family violence]]
**[[Legal Protection Against Family Violence & Abuse#What is a protection order?|What is a protection order]]{{·}}[[Legal Protection Against Family Violence & Abuse#What is a peace bond|What is a peace bond]]{{·}}[[Legal Protection Against Family Violence & Abuse#What is a family law protection order|What is a family law protection order?]]

*'''[[Criminal Court Process and Family Violence & Abuse |Criminal court process]]
**[[Criminal Court Process and Family Violence & Abuse#How it starts|How it starts]]{{·}}[[Criminal Court Process and Family Violence & Abuse#The first court appearance|The first court appearance]]{{·}}[[Criminal Court Process and Family Violence & Abuse#What is my role|What is my role?]]{{·}}[[Criminal Court Process and Family Violence & Abuse#What happens in court|What happens in court?]]

*'''[[Glossary for Family Violence & Abuse| Glossary]]'''

*'''[[Help, Services and More Information for Family Violence & Abuse| Information]]'''

==About this Wikibook==

*[[About Family Violence and Abuse|About ''Family Violence and Abuse'']]
*Learn more about [[Clicklaw Wikibooks]] or visit other wikibooks from [[People's Law School]]

== About People's Law School==
The [[People's Law School]] is a non-profit charitable society whose purpose is to provide British Columbians with reliable information about their rights and responsibilities under the law.

:[[File:Peopleslawschoollogo-horizontal.jpg|frameless|none|150px|link=]]
:Suite 150 - 900 Howe Street
:Vancouver, BC V6Z 2M4
:Telephone: 604-331-5400
:Email: info@publiclegaled.bc.ca
:Website: [http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca www.publiclegaled.bc.ca]

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Older People and the Law

2015-06-06T16:18:56Z

Drew:

{{Law-Related ESL Badge
|lessonname= Elder Law Lesson Module}}{{Learning about the Law Wikibook TOC}}
Elder law covers the laws that affect older people.

==Retirement and government benefits==
[[File:Elderly group at cafe.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

The federal government manages two major public pension programs through Service Canada:
*Old Age Security (OAS), based on years of living in Canada, and
*Canada Pension Plan (CPP), based on years of work in Canada and the amount paid into the plan.

===Old Age Security===

The Old Age Security (OAS) provides pension benefits to citizens and legal residents of Canada who have lived in the country for 10 or more years as an adult (after turning 18). The Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) is an additional monthly benefit paid to Canadian residents who receive Old Age Security pension and have little or no other income.

Apply for Old Age Security benefits six months before you turn 65. For help in making an application, contact your local Service Canada office, or agencies that help seniors in your community.

===Canada Pension Plan ===

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) provides income to working Canadians after they retire. The amount of pension income you receive depends on the amount you paid in to the fund from your wages over the years you worked in Canada.

You receive CPP retirement benefits, which is a monthly cheque mailed to you or deposited directly into your bank account, if you have contributed and:
*you are 60-64 years old and have stopped working or have a low income, or
*you are 65 years or older.

In Canada, people have a right to keep working after age 65.

If you work past age 65, you can be receiving CPP benefits at the same time.

You can also continue paying in to CPP until age 70; this will increase the amount you receive in retirement benefits.

CPP gives pension benefits to people who are not able to work because they had an accident, were injured or became ill. This is called a disability pension. If a worker dies, CPP has benefits for the family.

===How do I apply? ===

To apply for OAS, the GIC supplement, CPP benefits and for more information on federal government programs, contact:

:'''Service Canada'''
:For service in English: 1-800-277-9914
:For service in French: 1-800-277-9915
:Hearing or speech impairment: 1-800-255-4786
:Website: [http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca www.servicecanada.gc.ca]

Have your Social Insurance Number ready when you call.

===International benefits===

If you have lived and worked in another country, you may be eligible for social security benefits, either from that country or from Canada.

For information on how to apply for international benefits, contact:

:'''International Benefits Program'''
:Telephone: 1-613-957-1954
:Fax: 1-613-952-8901
:Toll-free in Canada and the United States: 1-800-454-8731
:TTY in Canada and the United States: 1-800-255-4786

Always have your Social Insurance Number ready when you call.

==Power of attorney ==

A ''power of attorney'' (POA) is a legal document that names another person, called the "attorney," to manage your financial, business and legal matters for you, but ''not'' health care decisions. The person who gives the power of attorney to someone is called a ''donor''.

:'''Note''': In this section, the word "attorney" does not refer to a lawyer. It refers to someone who has power of attorney.

The person you name as your attorney must act in the way you have instructed. It is important for the attorney to understand their duties and responsibilities. It may be a crime under the ''[http://canlii.ca/t/7vf2 Criminal Code]'' if an attorney fails to carry out their duties.

===Who should I choose? ===

You should choose a trusted friend, a relative or your lawyer to act for you. You can have one or two people act as your attorney(s). The people who act as your attorney(s) can act together, or one or the other attorney can be named as an ''alternate''. This will help make sure your wishes are followed.

Choose your attorney very carefully and ask for a regular report on how they manage your finances or business.

You can still handle your own affairs after you appoint an attorney or attorney(s). You can cancel (revoke) an old power of attorney at any time and make a new one with different attorney(s).

===Four different types of power of attorney ===

There are four different types of power of attorney.

Which one you choose depends on your needs.
#regular power of attorney,
#enduring power of attorney,
#springing power of attorney, and
#limited power of attorney.

====Regular power of attorney ====
[[File:Elderly single man headshot.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

In a regular POA, the power you give an attorney may be ''specific'' or general.

When you give a specific power of attorney, it means you give this person the power to do certain things only. For example, you may want them to do your banking when you’re out of town on vacation.

When you give a general power of attorney, it means you give this person the power to manage all your financial and legal affairs. They are to follow your wishes and instructions.

A regular power of attorney ends if you become ''mentally incapable''. Mentally incapable is a legal term that means not being able to understand what you are doing and what might happen as a result.

You can be incapable in one area of decision-making, yet still be able to manage your life in other areas. For example, you may be able to decide where to live and what kind of health services you want, but not be able to manage your finances.

People can make bad decisions and not be mentally incapable. The test is whether they understand what they are doing.

====Enduring power of attorney ====

An ''enduring power of attorney'' continues if you become mentally incapable.

You can cancel your enduring power of attorney at any time while you are mentally capable.

You cannot cancel an enduring power of attorney if you are mentally incapable.

The attorney must follow your instructions. The attorney must act in your best interests and consider what your wishes would be.

In your enduring power of attorney you say when you want it to start. You may want it to start right away. Or you may want it to start ''only'' if you become mentally incapable. (In this case, it becomes a ''springing power of attorney'', which is discussed next.)

====Springing power of attorney ====

A springing POA comes into effect only when a specific event happens. An event might be if you have a car accident, or become ill, or become mentally incapable.

A springing power of attorney must say:
*what event will start it, and
*how people will know without a doubt that the event has happened.

====Limited power of attorney ====
In a ''limited power of attorney'', you say exactly what action your attorney can take, and put a time limit on when the power of attorney ends.

For example, suppose you are travelling in another country, and you need someone to go to the bank in person to move some funds. You can give your attorney permission to do this and set a time limit. For example, the attorney must move the funds within five days of the start of a new month.

A limited POA ends when the action is completed or when the time limit has passed.

===If you have worries about your attorney ===

Attorney(s) have a duty to act in your best interests and follow your wishes. But some attorneys ''misuse'' their power. They might take funds out of your bank account without your permission. Or they might sell what you own and use the money for themselves. This is financial abuse and it happens to many people, especially seniors.

If you are worried about your power of attorney agreement or want to name someone else as your attorney, you can end the agreement as long as you are mentally capable.

Talk to a lawyer for help and advice, or contact one of the agencies listed at the end of the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.

==Joint bank accounts ==

A joint bank account is held by two or more people. Any person whose name is on the joint bank account can put money into the bank account and take money out of the bank account.

Sometimes people put their bank account into joint names with a friend or relative so that the other person can help with banking, shopping and taking out cash for spending. But any person named on the account can use all of the funds as their own and take out all the money. So joint accounts can be dangerous.

As a safer option, you can apply to have your bank pay monthly bills from your account for you. You can also ask the government to have your pension and other cheques deposited directly into your bank account. The bank will send you a monthly statement so that you know all the activity in your account. There might be a small cost, but many banks have low or no fees for services to seniors.

You can also open a second, smaller bank account. You can ask the bank to regularly move funds from your main account into the second account to pay for what you need each month. The person who is helping you with banking and shopping can withdraw money from this account but not the main account. The main account stays in your name only.

Talk to your bank manager for more ideas on keeping your money safe.

==Representation agreements ==
[[File:Showing elderly woman paper.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

A representation agreement allows the person you name as your representative to make personal and health care decisions for you.

There are two types of representation agreements:
*standard representation agreements, and
*enhanced representation agreements.

''Standard representation agreements'' give limited authority to the representative you name to make some health and routine financial decisions for you.

Standard representation agreements do not allow a representative to make decisions about end-of-life care.

If you are incapable of entering into a contract or managing your affairs, you can make a standard representation agreement as long as you can express your wishes, and you understand the effects of a representation agreement.

''Enhanced representation agreements'' give more responsibility to your representative over health care and personal decisions. Your representative might even decide if you will or will not receive medical services necessary to continue life.

To make an enhanced representation agreement, you need to have full mental capacity. Under an enhanced representation agreement, the representative has no authority over financial decisions.

===Who should I choose to be my representative? ===

Choose someone you know well and trust. Make sure they know your wishes. As your representative, they must respect those wishes, now and in the future, especially if you can’t speak for yourself.

==Advance directives ==

In an advance directive you can write instructions to your representative or to your doctor about what kind of health care you want and don’t want if you have a serious medical condition.

Advance directives often deal with end-of-life decisions. Some people use the term "living will" when talking about an advance directive.

Instructions in your advance directive can be:
*general statements such as: I don't want to be connected to machines to stay alive, or
*specific statements such as: I don't want to receive donated blood.

An advance directive ensures that your wishes are followed even if you are not able to speak for yourself due to an injury or illness. Keep your advance directive updated. For example, there might be improvements in medicine you wish to consider.

A possible difficulty with advance directives is that your wishes may change over time. Remember to renew and update your advance directive from time to time.

==Protecting yourself and your money ==

When you are a senior, sometimes people try to take advantage of you. It is important to protect yourself and your money.

Criminals use a variety of methods to trick people and take their money. Older people are often the target of these criminal tricks.

Sometimes the criminals take money. Other times, they use your personal information to access your bank accounts or run up debts in your name. This is called identity theft, which means taking your personal information and using your identity.

Be careful with your personal information, which includes your name, address, phone number and date of birth. Be careful when throwing away credit card statements and grocery receipts. Tear the receipts up or put them through a paper shredder, as criminals may go through the trash and use the statements and receipts to find information about you.

Never give out your Canada Social Insurance Number, credit card numbers, or bank account information to someone you don’t know and trust. Keep your passwords and bank cards separate.

If you write down your passwords, make sure you store the password in a safe place. Don’t keep passwords in your wallet. Never give out personal information on the telephone or by email. If someone is asking questions they may be trying to learn your personal information.

A bank will never ask for personal information or passwords over the phone unless you call them and the bank asks you to prove your identity. A bank will never email you and ask for your passwords or the numbers for debit or credit cards.

Phone calls saying you have won a vacation, or money, and asking you to enter in your phone number are not real contests. It is not safe to give these callers your personal information.

If you have caller ID on your phone, you can look to see if the number belongs to someone you know. If the number is not familiar, you can let the phone ring and ignore the call.

You can also register for the National Do Not Call List to reduce calls from people and companies trying to sell you things. Visit [http://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/index-eng www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/index-eng] for more information on how to register a phone number for the National Do Not Call List.

If you have a problem, see the resources listed in the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section. Remember, if an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

==Know what you're signing ==

Talk to a legal advisor or a lawyer before you sign any legal documents.
*Signing a document means you agree to everything that’s written in the document.
*Don’t sign anything that you don’t understand.

==Wills and estates ==
[[File:Stock will and testament.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

Everything you own at the time of your death is called your estate. Homes, bank accounts, investment accounts, jewelry and cars can all be part of your estate. If you have debt when you die, what you owe is part of your estate.

A ''will'' is a written legal document that contains your instructions about what happens to your estate after you die.

A will is not the same as a power of attorney. A power of attorney deals with your instructions about what happens to your affairs while you are alive.

You need to name someone as executor of the estate. This is the person who follows the instructions in your will. You should also name a second person in case the first executor cannot act as executor.

The executor can be a trusted friend, relative, lawyer or company. Your executor is ''not'' automatically your attorney unless you appoint the same person as executor and as your attorney under a power of attorney.

You can cancel an old will and make a new one, as long as you are mentally capable.

==Elder abuse ==

Elder abuse is mistreatment that results in harm or loss to an older person. Elder abuse falls into a number of different categories:

*'''Physical abuse''': using physical force against an older adult.
*'''Financial abuse''': misusing an older adult’s money or property. It includes forcing an older adult to sign a document.
*'''Neglect''': the person is not being kept clean and safe.
*'''Sexual abuse''': forced sexual contact of any kind.
*'''Psychological or emotional abuse''': any actions that cause mental and emotional harm. It includes threats, verbal abuse, non-verbal abuse and humiliation.

===What are some signs of abuse? ===

Here are some signs that abuse may be happening:
*'''Physical abuse:''' bruising and injuries that cannot be explained.
*'''Psychological or emotional abuse:''' showing a high level of anxiety or distress.
*'''Financial abuse:''' large unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts.
*'''Neglect or self-neglect:''' lack of bathing, unclean living conditions, and lack of health aids such as dentures or glasses.

Different types of abuse often occur at the same time. For example, a victim of physical abuse may also be a victim of psychological or emotional abuse.

===Where to go for help ===
[[File:Smiling young and elderly pair.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

You deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Elder abuse is always wrong, and can also be a criminal offence.

If you think you may need legal advice, contact a lawyer.

The following resources can provide support to you or someone you know:

*'''BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support''': BC CEAS provides ''confidential'' legal information and emotional support over the phone. BC CEAS can also provide legal representation. Contact details are in the [[Find Out More in Learning about the Law|Find Out More]] section.
*'''BC Human Rights Coalition''': The Coalition provides information and services to people in BC who need help to protect their rights under the BC ''Human Rights Code''. For more information phone 604-689-8474 or toll free 1-877-689-8474.
*'''VictimLINK''': VictimLINK can put you in touch with counselling and helping services, and people who may be able to help you find a safe place to stay. Call 1-800-563-0808.
*'''BC Association of Community Response Networks''': BCCRN can provide information and help to anyone who is being abused or neglected, or is supporting someone who is. To find your local Community Response Network, email [mailto:info@bccrns.ca info@bccrns.ca] or go to [http://www.bccrns.ca www.bccrns.ca].
*'''Community Care Facilities Licensing Officer''': For seniors who are in a care facility or group home, call the Community Care Facilities Licensing Officer in your area. To contact a licensing officer, call the Health Information Line at 1-800-465-4911 and ask for the telephone number.
*'''Public Guardian and Trustee''': The Public Guardian and Trustee's Office can tell you which local agency has the responsibility to respond to reports of abuse and neglect of older adults. Phone 604-775-1007 or 604-660-4444. If calling from outside the Lower Mainland, call Service Canada at 1-800-663-7867 and ask to be transferred to the Public Guardian and Trustee’s Office.
*'''Regional Health Authorities''': The Regional Health Authorities such as Vancouver Coastal Health, Fraser Health, Interior Health, Vancouver Island Health Authority and Northern Health Authority are designated agencies. Designated agencies have a legal responsibility to look into reports of adult abuse and neglect.
*'''The police''': If you are in immediate danger, call 911. In non-emergencies or if there has been a criminal offence (like theft), call your local police. You may wish to make a police report.
*'''Your local health unit''': Call the Health and Seniors Information Line at 1-800-465-4911 and ask to be connected to your local health unit or a mental health worker.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2013}}

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Driving Safely

2015-06-06T16:17:57Z

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==Car accidents==

===What should you do if you have an accident?===
[[File:Car breakdown.jpg| right | frame | link= | Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
'''If you have an accident, you MUST stop and help'''.
#If it is safe to do so, pull over to the side of the road so you do not block traffic.
#If you can get out of the vehicle, find out if anyone is hurt.
#If you or others are seriously injured, call 911.
#Write down the other driver's:
#*name, address and phone number,
#*driver’s licence number,
#*vehicle licence plate number, and
#*vehicle registration and insurance information.
#Get the name, address and phone number of anyone who saw the accident.
#Report the accident to ICBC as soon as possible:
#*Phone the Dial-a-Claim centre:
#::Lower Mainland: 604-520-8222
#::Elsewhere in BC: 1-800-910-4222
#*You can also report the accident online. Use the online claim report. To find the online claim report, go to the ICBC website at [http://www.icbc.com www.icbc.com]. Select "Claims."

ICBC has a “Claim Card” online that can help you collect the details you need. The Claim Card is available in English, Punjabi and Chinese. To find the Claim Card, go to the ICBC website. Select "Claims."

===If you have any pain===
*Go to a doctor. Make a note of your injuries or have someone do it for you. Be sure to report all your injuries to the doctor.
*Talk to a lawyer before you make your claim to ICBC. You have a right to do this.

===Reporting to the police===

Phone 911 and report the accident to the police if:
*Anyone has been hurt or killed.
*You think the damage to the cars will cost more than $1,000.
*The other driver broke the law. For example, the driver was drunk or he drove through a red light.
*Another driver hit your vehicle and drove away (hit and run).

If it is not an emergency, report the accident within 24 hours. Call the non-emergency phone number.
You can find the non-emergency number on the first inside page of your phone book.

==Drinking and driving==

British Columbia has very strict laws about drinking and driving. Alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine and liquor, can make you an impaired driver. If you cause an accident while drinking and driving, you may have to pay a fine, or go to jail. ICBC may not pay the costs if you cause an accident after you have been drinking. You may have to pay the costs yourself. Your insurance may also cost more.

===If you are caught drinking and driving===

The police can stop you to check if you have been drinking alcohol.

Police can ask you to provide a breath sample into a roadside screening device. The device measures how much alcohol you have in your blood.

If you are caught driving with a blood-alcohol content ''over 0.05'':
*You will lose your driver’s licence immediately.
*You will pay a fine.
*You may also lose your vehicle. If you do, you will pay all the towing and storage fees.
*You will pay to get your licence back.

In addition to these penalties, you can be charged with a crime and have to go to court if:
*you are caught driving with a blood-alcohol content ''over 0.08'', or
*you refuse to provide a breath sample.

If you are found guilty in court, you can:
*be prohibited from driving for at least a year, and
*pay more for car insurance.

===If you are caught using drugs and driving===

When you are driving, police can stop you and check to see if you have been taking drugs. They can order you to give them samples of blood, oral fluid or urine. 

{{FmboxPLS
| text = The penalties for using drugs and driving are like those for drinking and driving. They include fines and penalty points on your driving record. 
You can also be charged with a crime and have to go to court.
}}

==Seat belts and child car seats==
[[File:Seat belted children.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]

In British Columbia, all drivers and passengers must wear seat belts. There is a fine for not wearing a seat belt.

British Columbia also has rules about using child car seats.
*Children from birth to over 9 kilos (20 pounds) must sit in a baby seat in the middle of the back seat, facing the back of the car.
*Children between 9 and 18 kilos (20 to 40 pounds) must sit in a child safety seat in the back seat.
*Children until they reach 145 cm or 4’9” must sit in a booster seat that raises them to the correct level for the seat belts.

Keep all children in the back seat until 12 years of age, away from active airbags.

In some communities, the local fire hall will check your child car seat to make sure it is safe.

For more information, call the free BCAA Child Passenger Safety Program at 1-877-247-5551. You can also go online for child passenger safety information at [http://www.bcaa.com/road-safety www.bcaa.com/road-safety].

==Traffic tickets==

You must pay a fine if the police catch you breaking traffic laws, such as driving through a red light or driving faster than the speed limit.

Drivers who break a traffic law also get driver penalty points on their driving record. For example, you get three driver penalty points for speeding. Drivers with more than three points in one year must pay extra money to ICBC for their insurance.

You might get a traffic ticket you do not think is fair. Or you might have been charged the wrong amount. If so, you have 30 days to fight the ticket.

To find out how to fight a traffic ticket, go to [http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca www.clicklaw.bc.ca]. Go to the section called “Solve Problems” and search for "traffic ticket."

==Cell phones==

When you are driving, it is against the law to use a hand-held cell phone or any other electronic device you hold in your hands.

Learner or novice drivers cannot use any cell phone and electronic devices, including those that are hands-free.

==Pedestrians==

The laws in Canada about people crossing the road are different from those in many other countries. Drivers must stop and wait for pedestrians in a ''crosswalk'' or in an intersection.

===Intersections===

Any place where two streets meet is an intersection. At an intersection, you must stop if you see pedestrians waiting to cross the road.

When you approach any intersection, look left and right to see if there are pedestrians waiting to cross.

If a vehicle is stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be waiting for a person to cross the road, so be prepared to stop.

===Crosswalks===

The roads in our cities and town have crosswalks. They can be marked by:
*white lines across the road,
*flashing lights, or
*traffic lights.

Drivers must always stop if anyone is walking in a crosswalk.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2011}}

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Getting a BC Driver's Licence

2015-06-06T16:17:09Z

Drew: fixing lesson badge

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If you are a newcomer to British Columbia, and you drive a vehicle, you can use a valid driver's licence from your country for the first 90 days. You must apply for a BC driver’s licence within these 90 days.

You need different types of licences to drive a car, a motorcycle, bus, truck or taxi.

==Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC)==

The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) manages licences and provides insurance to BC motorists.

There are ICBC driver licensing offices throughout British Columbia. To find an office near you, go to the ICBC website at [http://www.icbc.com www.icbc.com]. Select “Driver Licensing.”

==Knowledge test and road test==

Most newcomers to BC have to pass a knowledge test and road test. [[File:Divided highway sign.jpg | right | frame | link=]]

===Knowledge test===

The knowledge test is about the driving rules in BC.

To get ready to take the knowledge test, go to an ICBC driver licensing office and pick up the publication ''[http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/getting-licensed/pass-veh/roadsense-drivers Learn to Drive Smart]''. You can also download this publication from the [http://www.icbc.com ICBC website]. At the website, select “Driver Licensing.” The publication has information about British Columbia’s traffic laws, the rules of the road, and safe driving.

When you know what is in the publication, you can take the knowledge test.

The ICBC website has an online practice test so you can practise before you take the test. To take the practice test, go to the ICBC website. Select “Driver Licensing,” and take the practice test in English or Punjabi. You can also watch the online video, What's the Real Knowledge Test Like?

You take the knowledge test on a computer at an ICBC driver licensing office. The test takes about half an hour.

{{FmboxPLS
| text = You may be able to exchange your licence for a British Columbia licence if:
*you have two years’ driving experience, and
*you have a licence from one of the following countries: Austria, Australia, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States.
Check [http://www.icbc.com www.icbc.com] for details.
}}

There are 50 questions in the knowledge test. You have to get at least 40 right, to pass the test.

If you do not get 40 questions right, you need to study some more. You can go back and take the test again whenever you feel ready.

You can take the knowledge test in Arabic, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Croatian, English, Farsi (Persian), French, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Tell the ICBC driver licensing office if you need a translator.

[[File:Driving instructor.jpg | right | frame | link=| Copyright www.shutterstock.com]]
===Road test===

The road test usually takes about an hour. An ICBC driver examiner goes with you to test how safely you drive. The examiner will take you on city streets and on the highway. You have to do things like park, back up, change lanes, merge with traffic, and obey speed limits, traffic lights and stop signs.

If you pass the road test, you can get a British Columbia driver’s licence. You fill out the forms back at the office, pay the fees, and ICBC mails you the licence.

If you fail the test, you do not get a driver’s licence. You have to practise driving some more. Ask the examiner when you can take the test again.

==Stages in getting a licence==
If you have never had a driver’s licence before, you go through three stages:
#Learner’s licence
#Novice licence
#Full-privilege licence

===Learner's licence===
[[File:Learners license sign.jpg | right | frame | link= | Learner’s licence]]

When you pass your knowledge and vision tests, you get a learner’s licence.
*You must always have a licensed driver 25 years or older sitting beside you.
*You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
*You cannot drink any alcohol when you are driving – your blood alcohol must be zero.
*Your car must have an "L" sign (for learner) on it.

{{FmboxPLS
| text = Learning to Drive? A driving school can help you learn to drive. You may be able to find a teacher who speaks your first language. 
Make sure you have driver training that is approved by ICBC. Go to the ICBC website at [http://www.icbc.com www.icbc.com]. Select “Driver Licensing” and click on “Driver Training.”
}}

If you break any of the special rules for a learner driver, you have to pay a fine. You can also lose your right to drive, for a period of time.

If you break any traffic rules while you are a learner, you can lose your right to drive very quickly. For example, if you have two traffic tickets, you would lose your right to drive for one ''month''.
You can take the road test 12 months after you get your learner’s licence.

===Novice licence===
[[File:Novice license sign.jpg | right| frame | link= | Novice licence]]
When you pass the road test at the end of the learner stage, you get a novice licence.
*You can have only one passenger with you unless:
**You have a licensed driver 25 years or older beside you, or
**Your passengers are close family members.
*You cannot drink any alcohol when you are driving – your blood alcohol must be zero.
*Your car must have an "N" sign (for novice) on it for 24 months.

If you break any of the special rules for a novice driver, you go back to the beginning of the novice period.

If you break any traffic rules while you are a novice driver, you can lose your right to drive. The rules are the same as for a learner driver. For example, if you get two traffic tickets, you would lose your right to drive for one month.

===Full-privilege licence===

You can take the road test for a full-privilege licence after you have had the novice licence for two years.

{{REVIEWED | reviewer = [[People's Law School]], 2011}}

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