Rights & citizenship

For those thinking of settling permanently in British Columbia, there are several programs for immigrating to Canada. There is also financial and other help available for newcomers to the province.

The law of defamation protects a person’s reputation from unjustified harm. Learn what kinds of communication are considered defamatory, as well as the defences to a defamation action.

Increasingly, organizations — both private and public — are collecting your personal information. Learn about the laws allowing you to access this information and limiting how it can be collected, used, and disclosed.

The legal position of Aboriginal people in British Columbia involves an interplay of federal and provincial law, plus treaty and other rights. Learn the basics of Aboriginal law in BC.

The legal rights of children vary from those of adults. Learn the rights of children in several contexts, and situations where their views are considered in decisions that affect them.

When someone in a trusted relationship with an older person does something that harms or distresses them, this is elder abuse. Learn what options exist if you suspect elder abuse.

British Columbia has a human rights law to help protect you from discrimination. Learn what it covers, and steps you can take if someone discriminates against you.

Harassment is conduct a reasonable person would consider objectionable or unwelcome. Learn your rights when harassment involves conduct of a sexual nature, as well as options if you’re sexually harassed.

The Charter of Rights and Freedoms is one of Canada’s most important laws. Learn the key rights and freedoms protected by the Charter and how to enforce your Charter rights.

A number of legal rights are enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Learn about these rights, and what a court can do if your legal rights are violated.

The idea that all people should be treated equally is a core value in Canadian society. In fact, equality rights are enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.