Government

Ministry of Justice

Self-help and Information Services

Self-help and information services are available within the Vancouver Justice Access Centre if you do not have a lawyer representing you for a Supreme Court family or civil matter.

Our services can help you find out about legal procedures for solving civil and family law problems. Here, you can find information about your issue, the legal system, services available for you and how disputes can be solved without going to court. If you're going to court, we can explain court procedures and help you prepare to represent yourself.

We provide a wide range of information and resources to serve you at any stage in your situation. You'll find:

  • computers for doing research and word processing;
  • a resource library, including videos; and
  • booklets and brochures to take home.

You'll find staff to help you:

  • identify your problem and your legal options;
  • find publications that explain the law in plain language, including many in languages other than English;
  • access reading material;
  • find useful websites;
  • use self-help guides;
  • get information about government services and agencies;
  • help you understand court forms; and
  • print, photocopy and/or fax forms and other materials (on a limited basis).

Self-help and information services staff provide legal information, but not legal advice.

  • Legal information is general information about the law that helps someone identify a legal issue and related options.
  • Legal advice involves applying the law to a particular situation. It includes providing a legal opinion and specific advice about next steps to take.