Access Justice

Access Pro Bono recommends using the ClickLaw website for legal resources and help services.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z All

1 ADVOCACY PROGRAMS
2 COMMUNITY SERVICES
3 COMPLAINTS
4 CONSUMER TIPS
5 EMERGENCY SERVICES
6 FAMILY SERVICES
7 GENERAL INFORMATION SERVICES
8 HEALTH CARE SERVICES
9 INFORMATION FOR TRAVELLERS
10 LAWYER REFERRALS
11 LEGAL ADVICE PROGRAMS
12 LEGAL INFORMATION SERVICES
13 MEDIATION SERVICES
14 MULTICULTURAL AND IMMIGRATION SERVICES
15 TELEPHONE SERVICES

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ADVOCACY PROGRAMS

B.C. Centre for Elder Advocacy Support
B.C. CEAS is a province-wide forum for individuals, seniors, community agencies and organizations, government and policy makers. We work together to eliminate the abuse of seniors.
* http://www.bcceas.ca/
* (604) 437-1940
* Toll Free: 1-866-437-1940
* Email: ceas@telus.net
* Fax: (604)437-1929

BC Coalition of People with Disabilities
Provides advocacy assistance to people with mental, physical, cognitive and sensory disabilities regarding BC Employment, CPP Disability benefits applications, appeals and review tribunals.
* http://www.bccpd.bc.ca/
* 604-872-1278 (Lower Mainland)
* 1-800-663-1278 (Toll-free)
Gives information on a range of disability-related issues including gas tax rebates, additional homeowner grants, subsidized housing, income assistance rights, and access to community resources.

BC Human Rights Coalition
The B.C. Human Rights Coalition is a charitable non-profit community based organization that seeks to promote and strengthen human rights throughout B.C. and Canada.
* http://www.bchrcoalition.org/index.html
* 604.689.8474
* Toll Free: 1.877.689.8474
* Email: info@bchrcoalition.org
* Fax: 604.689.7511
Our services integrate information, education, training, consultation, investigation, mediation, research and advocacy. Our advocacy programme protects existing rights, our education, training and consultation programme helps to prevent discrimination, and our law reform work seeks to expand human rights protections. Together this integrated approach works to promote and strengthen human rights.
In delivering these services we often coordinate with other service providers to ensure the most effective allocation of resources. We also strive to work with all sectors when delivering services to ensure the broadest possible approach to the elimination of discrimination. >>> See more detail on our services.
The Security and You: Know Your Rights website is part of a larger project: Towards Bias-free Security: Balancing Public Safety with Equal Access and Respectful Treatment, a project of the BC Human Rights Coalition.

Credit Counselling Society
The Credit Counselling Society is a registered, non-profit service. Since opening in 1996, we have helped over 100,000 people in Western Canada learn how to:
•manage money better
•solve debt problems
•use credit responsibly
We can help you too! Connect with one of our Counsellors by phone, in person or through live on-line chat. Ask us any questions you may have.
* http://www.nomoredebts.org
* toll free: 1.888.527.8999
* email: info@nomoredebts.org
We are open 6 days a week to serve you:
Monday to Thursday 6:30 am till 8:00 pm (Pacific Standard Time)
Friday 6:30 am till 4:30 pm (Pacific Standard Time)
Saturday 8:30 am till 4:00 pm (Pacific Standard Time)

Downtown Eastside Residents Association
DERA is an organization of residents working towards improving the living conditions in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
DERA organizes around issues of concern to the community as well as providing housing, advocacy, and community support programs and services. DERA assists neighbourhood residents with welfare rights issues, pensions, Employment Insurance, and income tax preparation.
DERA also provides information and assistance for those seeking accommodation in the neighbourhood, and advocacy in residential tenancy disputes. Services are available in both English and Cantonese.
* http://www.vcn.bc.ca/dera/
* Tel: 604.682.0931
* Email: board@dera.bc.ca
* Fax: 604.669.5499

Grandview Woodlands Drug and Alcohol Coalition
We are mostly residents and staff from community organizations in the neighbourhood. Some of us use alcohol and a range of drugs, as well as those who are abstinent. We want to do our part to address alcohol and drug issues in honest, inclusive and creative ways. We also believe in building our knowledge and ability to take action around these issues.
* http://gwdac.org/
* Tel: 604-215-3907
* Email: gw.dac@vch.ca
Vision: A proactive community with the capacity to address drug and alcohol issues in open, honest, inclusive and creative ways.
Mission: To empower the Grandview Woodlands community to make positive changes to drug and alcohol issues through inclusive dialogue and action.

Pivot Legal Society
Pivot Legal Society is a non-profit legal advocacy organization located in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.
Pivot's mandate is to take a strategic approach to social change, using the law to address the root causes that undermine the quality of life of those most on the margins. We believe that everyone, regardless of income, benefits from a healthy and inclusive community where values such as opportunity, respect and equality are strongly rooted in the law.
* http://www.pivotlegal.org/index.htm
* Tel: (604) 255 9700
* Email: info@pivotlegal.org
* Office hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm, Mon. – Fri.
Pivot Legal LLP. is a full service law firm committed to providing affordable, high quality and easy to access legal services to individuals, companies and organizations in a wide area of law practice including business, corporate, immigration and refugee, criminal, family, civil litigation and aboriginal law.

PovNet PovNet
PovNet is an online resource for advocates, people on welfare, and community groups and individuals involved in anti-poverty work. It provides up-to-date information about resources in British Columbia and Canada. PovNet links to current anti-poverty issues and also provides links to other anti-poverty organizations and resources in Canada and internationally.
* http://www.povnet.org/
Although not a definitive source of information PovNet exists to be a clearinghouse of information necessary to address issues of anti-poverty. Regulations and laws can change so quickly it is difficult to know if the information you are using is up-to-date. PovNet strives to keep advocates and those who may be experiencing difficulty with the social service system informed. PovNet is here for you -- if you feel there is something relevant to the anti-poverty movement in Canada that is not here please let us know.

T.R.A.C.
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre is an educational organization promoting tenants' rights and affordable housing in British Columbia
* www.tenants.bc.ca
* 604.255.0546
* 1.800.665.1185 (Outside Vancouver)
* Fax: 604.255.0772

The Peoples' Advocacy Society
The Peoples' Advocacy Society (TPAS) is a non-profit organization, formed in 2005 by a group of dedicated volunteers. The Society's mission is to help create a community in which everyone has access to needed social services. We help clients navigate the often confusing process of obtaining social assistance. We do not charge for our services.
* http://www.peoplesadvocacy.ca/
* Tel: 604-682-8727 (TPAS)
* Email: info@peoplesadvocacy.ca
* Fax: 604-682-8729

West Coast Domestic Workers Association
Offers free legal services for domestic workers (i.e. nannies and caregivers) in BC providing information, support and advocacy regarding employment and immigration.
* http://www.vcn.bc.ca
* 604-669-4482
* 604-696-5006 (Information Line)
* 1-888-669-4482 (Toll-free)
* Office hours: 9:00am to 1:00pm, Tues. – Fri. 1:00pm to 3:00pm, Sat.

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COMMUNITY SERVICES

CHIMO Crisis Services
Outreach & Advocacy provides information, referral (bridging to community and public agencies) supports, and advocacy to client who are in need of help with housing, income assistance, pensions, disabilities, family concerns, family violence, immigration, mental health and other issues. The service is free and confidential.
* http://www.chimocrisis.com
* Phone:(604) 279-7077

City of Vancouver

* http://www.vancouver.ca/
-Community Services (CS) is comprised of departments and groups offering a wide range of services to the community. They are all involved in the direct delivery of services to people; all have interest in the city’s future and in the environment; all are engaged in processes of community consultation and partnership; and many participate in the regulation of private sector activity for public purpose.

-Community Web Pages: Find out about the various local neighbourhoods that make up the City of Vancouver. Each community has a list of services and resources (libraries, community centres, parks and more), profile information (including history and demographics), community events, projects & initiatives, and more!

Community Policing Centres (Vancouver)
The Vancouver Police Department has 8 Community Policing Centres.
* http://www.vancouver.ca/police/CPC/cpc.html

North Shore Neighbourhood House
North Shore Neighbourhood House has a long tradition of providing social, recreational and child care services to North Shore residents. Our services are directed towards improving community health and well being. We often work collaboratively with other North Shore agencies and community groups.
* http://www.nsnh.bc.ca/
* Tel: 604 987-8138
* Fax: 604 987-2107

Royal Commonwealth Society
The Mainland of British Columbia Branch of the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is one of 12 branches of the RCS in Canada. It was founded in 1959 and currently has some 150 members. The Branch adheres to the objectives of the Society which are to promote the spreading of knowledge regarding the peoples and countries of the Commonwealth, and to promote the ideals and principles agreed to by the association of free, sovereign, and independent states which together constitute the modern Commonwealth.
* http://vancouver.rcs.ca/
* Tel: (604) 683-3201
* Fax: (604) 681–3589
The Branch supports through the University of British Columbia Commonwealth Club, an annual three-day Student Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference at which some 70 senior high school students assume the roles of leaders of 20 Commonwealth countries.

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COMPLAINTS

Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP
The Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP (CPC) provides civilian review of RCMP members' conduct in performing their policing duties so as to hold the RCMP accountable to the public. Our job is to help find and shape a balance between individual rights and collective security.
* http://www.cpc-cpp.gc.ca/
* From anywhere in Canada: 1-800-665-6878
* TTY: 1-866-432-5837
* org@cpc-cpp.gc.ca
* Fax: 613-952-8045 (Ottawa) / 604-501-4095 (Surrey)

Mayor Mayor's Office Vancouver

* http://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/
* 604-873-7621
* sam.sullivan@vancouver.ca
* Fax: 604-873-7685

Mayor Mayor's Office, City of Burnaby

* http://www.burnaby.ca/Home.html
* Mayor: 604.294.7340
* Mayor Email: mayor.corrigan@burnaby.ca
* general inquiries: 604.294.7944

Office of the Premier British Columbia

* http://www.gov.bc.ca/premier/
* 604 660-2421 (Vancouver) or 387-6121 (Victoria)
* Elsewhere in B.C. call: 1 800 663-7867
* Outside B.C. call: 604 660-2421
* premier@gov.bc.ca

The B.C. Human Rights Tribunal
The B.C. Human Rights Tribunal is an independent, quasi-judicial body created by the B.C. Human Rights Code. The Tribunal is responsible for accepting, screening, mediating and adjudicating human rights complaints. The Tribunal offers the parties to a complaint the opportunity to try to resolve the complaint through mediation. If the parties don't resolve the complaint, the Tribunal holds a hearing.
* http://www.bchrt.bc.ca/
* (604) 775-2000 phone
* (604) 775-2021 (TTY)
* 1-888-440-8844 toll free (in B.C.)
* BCHumanRightsTribunal@gov.bc.ca
* (604) 775-2020 fax

The Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT)
The purpose of the Canadian Human Rights Act is to protect individuals from discrimination. It states that all Canadians have the right to equality, equal opportunity, fair treatment, and an environment free of discrimination. The Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) applies these principles to cases that are referred to it by the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC). The Tribunal is similar to a court of law, but is less formal and only hears cases relating to discrimination. For further information about the different roles of the Tribunal and the Commission, please click the link below.
* http://www.chrt-tcdp.gc.ca/index_e.asp
* (613) 995-1707
* TTY: (613) 563-6460
* E-mail: registrar@chrt-tcdp.gc.ca
* Fax: (613) 995-3484

The Ministry of Labour and Citizens Services
The Ministry of Labour and Citizens' Services is continually working to improve access to more than 700 government services provided by various provincial government ministries.

Our mandate is to deliver those services through the Internet, over telephone and at government offices to citizens, businesses, visitors, other ministries and the broader public sector.

Our unique approach to citizen-centred services is recognized in Canada for setting the standard in:
*Making front-line services more responsive to the needs of our most important client - the people of British Columbia.
*Partnering with ministries and other levels of government to provide one-stop shopping convenience, while avoiding duplication of costs to tax payers.
*Bridging the digital divide between B.C. communities with no access to high-speed telecommunications services and those with access.
*Protecting the integrity of personal information.
*Partnering with the private sector in Alternative Service Delivery.
* http://www.gov.bc.ca/lcs/
Our workplace services promote dynamic work environments for employers and employees, leading to good, sustainable jobs while helping businesses compete and prosper.

Our Ministry is dedicated to:
*Improving workplace safety.
*Ensuring fair treatment for employees and employers.
*Encouraging a healthy and productive labour relations climate.

Use the sidebar links to find out more about the Ministry of Labour and Citizens' Services.

The Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner BC
If you have a complaint against the police in British Columbia, you have a right to say what happened and to be listened to.
* http://www.opcc.bc.ca/
* Vancouver: (604) 660-2385
* Victoria: (250) 356-7458
* Enquiry B.C. at 1-800-663-7867
* info@opcc.bc.ca
* Fax: (604) 660-1223 or (250) 356-6503
The British Columbia Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner is an independent agency established under the Police Act. We are responsible for overseeing complaints against municipal police to ensure they are handled fairly and impartially. The Police Complaint Commissioner is an Officer of the Legislature. The office is completely independent from any police department or government ministry, and reports directly to the Legislature.

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CONSUMER TIPS

Better Business Bureau of Mainland BC
* Our Vision: An ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers can trust each other.
* http://mbc.bbb.org
* Lower Mainland: 604-682-2711
* Telephone (Business Services): 604-681-0312
* Email: contactus@mbc.bbb.org
* Fax: 604-681-1544

Canadian Chinese Consumers’ Association (B.C.)
華人消費者協會 - The Canadian Chinese Consumers’ Association (B.C) is a registered non-profit community organization established in 1986. Our primary mission is to provide consumer-related information to Canadians, especially those consumers who need assistance in making wise decision.
* http://www.ccca-bc.ca/
* Client Line: 604.304.3541 (Chinese Service)
* Email:info@ccca-bc.ca
* Fax: 604.304.3676

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EMERGENCY SERVICES

Emergency Social Services (ESS)
Emergency Social Services (ESS) provides short-term assistance to British Columbians who are forced to leave their homes because of fire, floods, earthquakes or other emergencies. This assistance includes food, lodging, clothing, emotional support and family reunification.
* http://www.ess.bc.ca/index.htm
* Toll free within BC: 1 800 585-9559
* Email: ess@pep.gov.bc.ca
* Fax: 250 952-5831
The Emergency Social Services Office envisions a province where all communities have the capacity to effectively respond to the basic short-term needs of British Columbians affected by an emergency or disaster.

Vancouver Police Department
Mission: In fulfilment of its public trust, the VPD maintains public order, upholds the rule of law, and prevents crime.
* http://www.vancouver.ca/police/
* EMERGENCY CALLS: 911
* NON-EMERGENCY CALLS: 604-717-3321
* VPD Switchboard: 604-717-3535
* Email vpd@vpd.ca

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FAMILY SERVICES

BC Family Justice Services Information Line
Provides free information on child support.
* 604-660-2192 (Lower Mainland)
* 1-888-216-2211 (Toll free, outside Lower Mainland)
Does not provide legal advice to parents or guardians who decide to separate or divorce.

BC Men’s Resource Centre
Offers counseling, assessment and assistance during divorce proceedings with a focus on mediation and other alternatives to going to court. Also offers parenting and anger management support.
* 604-878-9033

Burnaby Family Life Institute
Burnaby Family Life services are primarily in the area of early intervention and prevention. Services are focused on the well-being of our children and community and alleviate the need for more costly crisis intervention services by government authorities.
* http://www.burnabyfamilylife.org/
* Phone: (604) 659-2200
* E-mail: info@burnabyfamilylife.org
* Fax: (604) 299-9731

Collaborative Family Law Group
Provides information on the collaborative law process in which both parents and their lawyers resolve disagreements without going to court.
* http://www.nocourt.net
* 604-878-1498

Comprehensive Child Support Service
Provides information and assistance on all child support matters for Kelowna residents.
* 250-712-3636 (in Kelowna)
* 1-888-227-7734 (Toll-free outside Kelowna)

Enquiry BC – Family Justice Counselors
Offers services to help parents and spouses resolve disputes, provides assistance in going to Provincial Court to get or alter child support orders if clients do not have a lawyer, and offers emotional support and/or counseling, referrals and information.
* 604-660-6828 (Greater Vancouver)
* 250-387-6121 (Greater Victoria)
* 1-800-663-7867 (elsewhere BC)
* Office hours: 8:30am – 5:40pm, except Wed.
No-fee service; Does not provide legal advice, but Enquiry BC will direct you to nearest Family Justice Centre to obtain a counselor.

Family Law Assistance Services
Family Orders and Agreement Enforcement Assistance Unit (FOAEA):Intercepts federal payments of individuals who are in default of their family support obligations and orders the suspension or denial of federal licenses and passports;
Central Registry to Divorce Proceedings Unit (CRDP): Maintains a nation-wide registry of divorce actions;
Garnishment, Attachment and Pension Diversion Registry (GAPDA): Permits the garnishment of public servants’ salaries and payments to federal contractors.
* 1-800-267-7777
* 1-800-267-7676 (for persons with hearing or speech impairments)

Family Maintenance Enforcement Program
BC government program that provides services in the area of child and spousal support.
* http://www.fmep.gov.bc.ca/
* 604-678-5670 (Lower Mainland)
* 1-800-663-9666 (Toll-free)
* 250-220-4040 (Victoria)
* 1-800-663-3455 (Toll-free, elsewhere in BC)
* Office hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm, Mon. – Fri.
To register, must obtain Filing Kit by phoning FMEP.

Family Services of Greater Vancouver
We are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening people, families, and communities. We provide a diverse range of professional support and counselling services to those who are experiencing challenges in their lives.
Our services range from prevention to intervention. We provide: abuse prevention & trauma treatment; addictions treatment; adoption services; community education & development; counselling; employee assistance; employment services; immigrant services; intensive family & parenting services; support for youth with special needs; victim support; and youth services for homeless youth and youth living in at-risk situations.
79 years after we started out, our 585 staff, together with 181 volunteers and 48 students, continue to provide crucial social services in over 30 languages at 20 locations throughout the lower mainland (Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey), Vancouver Island, and Northern BC. Last year, our annual agency revenue was $21,736,693.
* http://www.fsgv.ca/index.html
* Phone: 604.731.4951
* Fax: 604.733.7009

Lower Mainland Purpose Society-Youth and Families
The Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families is a non-profit society. With over 100 employees, we provide a variety of social, health and educational programs together with a continuum of services to Lower Mainland communities.
* http://purposesociety.org/
* T 604.526.2522
* Email: info@purposesociety.org
* F 604.526.6546

Marguerite Dixon Transition Society
* Transition House for abused women and their children fleeing from violence
* Second Stage Housing for women and their children who have left a transition house
* Housing Outreach for women and their children who are leaving the transition house or second stage programs and are seeking more permanent housing.
* Stopping the Violence Counselling for women who have experienced sexual abuse, violence in their relationships or childhood abuse
* Family Counselling for low-income women, men, couples, families, adolescents and children.
* http://www.dixonhouse.ca/
* Administration: 604-433-4165
* Crisis Line: 604-298-3454
*Mission: to provide a continuum of services including safe accommodation, support and counselling for abused women and their children so that they can discover and reach their full potential.

Parent Support Services Society of BC
Parenting is the most important and challenging job that most adults undertake. Parents often feel frustrated by the demands of raising children, even in the best of circumstances. When parents are isolated, involved in difficult relationships, experiencing financial stress, or lack information on child development and child-rearing techniques, they can lose control.
* http://www.parentsupportbc.ca/index.html
* Toll Free: 1.800.665.6880
* Phone: 604.669.1616
* E-mail: office@parentsupportbc.ca
* Fax: 604.669.1636
vision: To create a world where all children and their families are nurtured, valued and safe.
Mission: To prevent child abuse and to promote healthy relationships by supporting parenting, families, and communities.

Vancouver Status of Women
Vancouver Status of Women is a 35 year-old organization that works with women to ensure our full participation in the social, political and economic life of our communities in the profound belief that women's self-determination is a crucial step towards a just and responsible society.
Hours of Operation: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 10am - 5pm
* http://www.vsw.ca/
* Tel: 604-255-6554
* Email: womencentre@vsw.ca
* Fax: 604-255-7508

YWCA Vancouver
YWCA Vancouver is a progressive, non-profit organization dedicated to achieving women's equality.
* http://www.ywcavan.org
* Tel: 604.895.5800
* Fax: 604.684.9171
Our Mission is to touch lives and build better futures for women and their families through advocacy and integrated services that foster economic independence, wellness, and equal opportunities.

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GENERAL INFORMATION SERVICES

Enquiry BC
Enquiry BC's call centre, which opened in July 1991, is one of the province's busiest call centres, having answered more than 1 million enquiries over the past year. The centre provides the following services to all British Columbia residents, on behalf of provincial government ministries, Crown corporations and public agencies:
* basic provincial government information;
* assistance in identifying the program or person that the caller needs to speak to;
* government program or government employee phone / facsimile numbers or addresses;
* assistance in identifying the level of government responsible for a program or services; and
* toll-free transfer for callers who would otherwise incur a cost for obtaining information from or conducting business with the provincial government.
Enquiry BC is also responsible for policy and guidelines regarding provincial government listings in the Province of British Columbia Blue Page listings in all thirty-six public telephone directories in the province.
* http://www.mser.gov.bc.ca/prgs/enquiry_bc.htm
* In Victoria call: 387-6121
* In Vancouver call: 604 660-2421
* Elsewhere in BC call: 1 800 663-7867
* Outside British Columbia: 604 660-2421
* Email address EnquiryBC@gov.bc.ca
* TDD: 604 775-0303 or 1 800 661-8773
Hours of operation for Enquiry BC are 7:30 AM to 5 PM PST -- Monday through Friday.

Information Services Vancouver
Mission: Information Services Vancouver is committed to enabling British Columbians to access and use community resources through quality information and referral services.
* http://www.vcn.bc.ca/isv/
* Call: 604 875 6431 (business line)
* Fax: 604 660-9415
Serving the community since 1953

Welcome BC
WelcomeBC.ca is a no-nonsense, one-stop website for newcomers, the agencies that serve them, and the communities they choose as home. If you haven't arrived here yet, or are looking for ways to join us, this website can help you too. Anyone thinking of living, working, studying or investing in B.C. can find what they need from this reliable government website.
* www.welcomebc.ca

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HEALTH CARE SERVICES

Al-Anon/Alateen
The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery.
Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions.
Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics, and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic.
* www.al-anon.alateen.org
* Tel: 604-688-1716
* email1: wso@al-anon.org
* email2: langleyafg@shaw.ca
* www.bcyukon-al-anon.org
* fax: (613) 723-0151

MS Society Volunteer Legal Advocacy Program
A service for clients with MS (multiple sclerosis) only. Volunteer members of the MS Society with legal expertise and experience provide advocacy assistance to qualifying clients.
* http://www.mssociety.ca/bc/vlap.htm
* 604-689-3144 (Lower Mainland)
* 1-800-268-7582 (outside Lower Mainland within BC)
* Office hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, Mon. – Fri.

North Shore ConneXions Society (ConneXions)
North Shore ConneXions Society (ConneXions) began in 1956 when a group of parents came together to advocate for better social and educational services for their children with special needs. We have been dedicated to doing just that for more than 50 years.
Our Vision: A community where all people with disabilities have equal opportunities to lead active, fulfilling lives and are recognized as contributing members of the community.
* http://www.nsconnexions.org/
* Tel: 604.984.9321
* Fax: 604.984.9882
Our Mission: To support families and serve children and adults living with disabilities or developmental delays by:
* providing quality programs and services which support the development, independence and empowerment of adults , children and families
*working in partnership with adults, children, families, Society members and members of the community
*advocating for and developing a full range of community based services to meet the unique needs of each person and family

Vancouver Coastal Health
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) provides a full range of health care services ranging from hospital treatment to community-based residential, home health, mental health and public health services.
* http://www.vch.ca/
* 604.736.2033
* .866.884.0888 (toll free)
* Email: feedback@vch.ca
Vision: We are committed to supporting healthy lives in healthy communities with our partners through care, education and research.

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INFORMATION FOR TRAVELLERS

Canada Border Services Agency

* 1-800-461-9999
* Canpass - Air: 1-888-226-7277
* Canpass - Private Boat Clearance: 1-866-639-8726
* NEXUS - Air: 1-866-639-8726
* NEXUS - Boat : 1-866-996-3987
* NEXUS - Highway: 1-866-639-8726
-http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
-http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel/canpass/canpassair-e.html
-http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel/canpass/canpassprivateboat-e.html
-http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/nexus/air-aerien-eng.html
-http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/nexus/marine-maritime-eng.html
-http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/nexus/land-terre-eng.html

Canada Firearms Centre - Importation of firearms

* http://www.cfc-cafc.gc.ca/
* 1-800-731-4000
Chief Firearms Officer - BC: 1-(250) 356-6380

Canadian Coast Guard

* http://www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/
* 1-800-267-6687

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

* http://www.inspection.gc.ca
* 1-888-732-6222

Citizenship and Immigration Canada

* http://www.cic.gc.ca
* 1-888-242-2100

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

* http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
* Ottawa: (613) 993-0999
* Vancouver: (604) 666-0384

Industry Canada - Radio communication equipment

* http://www.ic.gc.ca/epic/site/ic1.nsf/en/home
* Ottawa: (613) 998-3949
* Vancouver: (604) 666-5468

Passport Canada

* http://www.ppt.gc.ca
* 1-800-567-6868

Register of Imported Vehicles

* http://www.riv.ca
* 1-888-848-8240

Transport Canada - Vessel registration

* http://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/CES/Small-Commercial-Vessels/menu.htm
* 1-800-267-6687

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

* http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis
* 1-800-375-5283

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

* http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/pleasure_boats/boats/
* Private boat clearance: 1-800-562-5943

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LAWYER REFERRALS

Lawyer Referral Service
Assists clients in finding a lawyer when clients do not qualify for Access Justice’s service
* http://www.bccba.org/Guest_Lounge/lawyer_referral
* 604-687-3221 (Lower Mainland)
* 1-800-663-1919 (outside Lower Mainland within BC)
Solely a referral service. Consultation will cost $25 excluding taxes. Lawyer’s standard rates apply after consultation if client chooses to hire lawyer.

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LEGAL ADVICE PROGRAMS

Access Justice
* Our Mission: To provide first-class free legal assistance to all persons who cannot obtain legal aid or afford a lawyer.
* www.accessjustice.ca
* Tel: 604.878.7400
* Fax: 604.324.1515
* Our Vision: To foster the principle that all Canadians are entitled to effective access to justice.

BC Public Interest Advocacy Centre
The British Columbia Public Interest Advocacy Centre (BCPIAC) is a non-profit, public interest law office. Its creation in 1981 reflected the fundamental belief that it should not only be the rich and powerful that are represented before our courts and regulators. For those bodies to function as they should, they must hear from all of those affected by their decisions. Our task is to provide representation to groups that would not otherwise have the resources to effectively assert their interests.
* http://bcpiac.com/
* Telephone: 604.687.3063
* email: bcpiac@bcpiac.com
* Fax: 604.682.7896
Mission: The British Columbia Public Interest Advocacy Centre is a non-profit society that advances the interests of groups that are generally unrepresented or underrepresented in issues of major public concern.

Calgary Legal Guidance
Calgary Legal Guidance offers specialized legal services in the areas of domestic violence and social benefits. In addition, in partnership with other agencies, some clinics offer legal information in languages other than English. If you are within Calgary and district area and wish to book a legal consultation at one of our evening legal clinics either call our office at (403) 234-9266 or drop by to speak to an Intake Worker.
Some basic information will be required to determine eligibility.
* http://www.clg.ab.ca/index.htm
* Ph: 1-403-234-9266
* Email: clg@clg.ab.ca
* Fax: 1-403-234-9299
Office hours: 8:30 – 4:30 Monday to Thursday and 8:30 – 4:00 each Friday.
Office location: 100, 840 – 7 Avenue SW Calgary T2P 3G2

Community Legal Assistance Society
The purpose of the Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS) is to provide legal advice and assistance and to use and develop the law for the benefit of people who are physically, mentally, socially, economically or otherwise disadvantaged or whose human rights need protection. CLAS believes that these legal objectives can best be met by working together under an umbrella organization in order to share the limited resources available.
* http://www2.povnet.org/clas
* Telephone: (604) 685-3425
* Toll Free: 1-888-685-6222
* Fax: (604) 685-7611

Law Student’s Legal Advice Program (LSLAP)
UBC law students provide free legal advice, drafting of legal documents, and legal representation at clinics throughout Greater Vancouver.
* http://www.lslap.bc.ca
* 604-822-5791
* Office hours: 9:00am – 4:00pm, Mon. – Fri.
Legal representation is not guaranteed and most clinics are by appointment only. Call to book an appointment. Provide assistance in: family, criminal, PI, DUI and matters at only the Provincial level court.

Legal Services Society of BC (Legal Aid)
Provides subsidized legal services, ranging from legal information and advice to legal representation, in the areas of criminal, family and immigration law for clients who qualify under financial eligibility guidelines.
* http://www.lss.bc.ca/legal_aid/what_is.asp
* 604-408-2172 (Lower Mainland)
* 1-866-577-2525 (Toll-free, outside Lower Mainland)
An Intake Worker will be able to calculate clients’ net monthly household income (according to household size) when they call.

Native Courtworker & Counselling Association of BC
The Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of British Columbia facilitates and enhances access to justice by assisting aboriginal people involved in the criminal justice system to obtain fair, just, equitable and culturally sensitive treatment.
* http://www.nccabc.ca/index.htm
* Phone: 604-985-5355
* Fax: 604-985-8933
* Email: nccabc@nccabc.net

Pro Bono Law of BC
Provides information and resources to help clients find free legal advice and assistance.
* http://www.probononet.bc.ca
* 604-893-8932
* Office hours: 8:30am – 5:00pm, Mon. – Fri.
Civil Chambers Pro Bono Duty Counsel Project: call Pro bono Law of BC at 604.603.5797 to find out if you qualify for the Civil Chambers Pro Bono Duty Counsel Project. If you qualify for the Project, we will match you with a volunteer lawyer.

Salvation Army BC Pro Bono Program
Provides free legal advice on preparing court documents, notarizing documents, filling out wills and helps clients prepare for court.
* http://www.probono.ca/
* 604-694-6647 (Lower Mainland and the rest of BC)
* 250-384-3396 (Vancouver Island only)
For qualifying clients only. Legal representation in court is not available. Assistance available in the following areas of the law: Criminal, Family, Immigration, Labour, Welfare, Residential Tenancy, Small Claims, Bankruptcy.

The Law Centre
The Law Centre is a service of the University of Victoria, Faculty of Law.
The Law Centre provides advice, assistance and representation to clients who cannot afford a lawyer. Thousands of persons living in the Capital Regional District are served annually.
The Law Centre also provides law students with clinical and legal education. Students are trained and supervised in the conduct of legal matters by lawyers who are members of the the University of Victoria, Faculty of Law.
The Law Centre also provides legal education programs to the public.
* http://www.thelawcentre.ca/
* Telephone: (250) 385-1221
* Email:reception@thelawcentre.ca
* Fax: (250) 385-1226
Switchboard hours: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 and 1:00p.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily
Interviews for new clients: Monday, Tuesday, Wednsday, Thursday, and Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Please call for an appointment: 385-1221

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LEGAL INFORMATION SERVICES

AdminLawBC.ca
What is Administrative Law?All levels of government make laws and regulations that affect us every day. For example, the municipal government makes laws about whether a certain type of business can operate in a particular neighbourhood; the provincial government makes laws about the minimum wage and number of hours that an employer has to give to an employee; the federal government makes laws about our right to employment insurance and the rates we pay for telephone service; and some specialists, such as doctors and accountants, are governed by organizations that establish rules for practising their professions.
* http://www.adminlawbc.ca/

AJEFCB AJEFCB
Since its inception in August 2000, more and more jurists from all across the province, including lawyers, judges, translators, and court professionals have joined l’Association des juristes d’expression française de la Colombie-Britannique (AJEFCB).

As a non-profit association, AJEFCB goals include contributing to the professional development of French-speaking jurists in B.C., the promotion of access to justice in French in B.C., facilitating and improving the exercise of French language legal rights in B.C., and assuring that existing French language rights respecting access to justice are maintained.

The Association is a member of the Fédération des associations de juristes d’expression française de common law (FAJEFCL), an organization that promotes equal access to justice in both official languages all across Canada.
* http://www.ajefcb.ca/
* (604) 629.1217
* Email: info@ajefcb.ca
* Télécopieur: (604) 629.1240

Artists Legal Outreach
The Artists' Legal Outreach (ALO) is a place where artists in all disciplines can find legal help. The ALO provides legal clinics twice per month, workshops and a library of legal information related specifically to the arts.
The ALO is run entirely by volunteer lawyers and law students. It is affiliated with the Alliance for Arts and Culture.
* http://artistslegaloutreach.ca/
* Clinic: clinic[at]artistslegaloutreach.ca
* Workshops: workshop[at]artistslegaloutreach.ca
* Telephone: (604) 681-3535
* Fax: (604) 681-7848

BC Courthouse Library Society
The B.C. Courthouse Library Society is a non-profit organization providing access to legal information resources and information services to members of the legal community and the public of British Columbia.
* http://www.bccls.bc.ca
* Tel:604.660.2841
* Toll Free: 1.800.665.2570
* e-mail: bccls@bccls.bc.ca
The B.C. Courthouse Library Society manages 31 courthouse libraries in communities throughout the province.
*Office Hour: Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (summer hours)

BC Ministry of Attorney General
Our goal is to seek innovative ways to better our justice services and give British Columbians access to a quality justice system that meets their needs.
* http://www.gov.bc.ca/ag/
* Tel: 250 387-1866
* Fax: 250 387-6411

BC Supreme Court Self-Help Information Centre
If you don’t have a lawyer representing you, the BC Supreme Court Self-Help Information Centre in Vancouver can help you get the information you need to prepare your Supreme Court family or civil case.
Drop into the centre and meet our staff. They will identify which resources and services you may need. This one-year pilot project provides services in person only. The centre does not take telephone, e-mail, or written inquiries.
* http://www.supremecourtselfhelp.bc.ca/index.htm
Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

ClickLaw
Clicklaw is a website aimed at enhancing access to justice in British Columbia. Clicklaw is not a site of laws; instead, Clicklaw features legal information and education designed for the public from 24 contributor organizations, as well as chosen others. Our mission is to provide equitable access to quality legal information, education and help for British Columbians.
* http://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/
* Email: editor@clicklaw.bc.ca
* What is on Clicklaw and what is not
Clicklaw links to laws and cases but that's not the main purpose of the site. Instead, the resources available through Clicklaw were designed to be used by the public and those helping the public access legal information. Featured are public legal information and education resources contributed directly to the site by 24 contributor organizations. Resources from other organizations are being added to the site by the Clicklaw team, guided by the Clicklaw content criteria & guidelines.

Court Services Branch

* http://www.ag.gov.bc.ca/courts/index.htm
Court Services Branch delivers all court administration services in B.C.
These services include:
• registry and trial support for the Provincial Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal
• prisoner custody and escort
• courthouse security
• providing and maintaining courthouse facilities.
As a servant of the court, the branch provides administrative services to the judiciary in a manner respectful of judicial independence.

Immigrant PLEI Consortium Project
The PLEI Consortium Project is a collaborative pilot project with the goal of enhancing the delivery of public legal education and information (PLEI) for immigrants in Metro Vancouver. By providing improved access to PLEI, newcomers to Canada will be better able to identify and address their legal needs and have an increased awareness of core Canadian legal values. During this previous year, the focus of the project has been on Residential Tenancy Law and Employment Standards Law; this coming year will concentrate on Family Law.
* http://www.immigrantlegal.ca/
A key strategy in achieving our goal is holding workshops throughout the course of the year. There are 3 main types:
- Cross-sectoral workshops which bring together Settlement Agencies, PLEI Providers, and legal service providers and allow these organizations to clarify their roles through facilitating discussion on community resources, community plans, and referral systems.
- Training workshops for Settlement Workers, bilingual/bicultural counselors, and other people working with immigrants.
- Community workshops for target linguistic communities in the Project's geographic areas.

Justice Education Society
Since 1989, Justice Education Society has been dedicated to improving access to the legal system through hands-on, targeted, two-way education between the public and those working in the justice system.
* http://www.justiceeducation.ca
* Tel: 604-660-9870
* Email: info@justiceeducation.ca
* Fax: 604-775-3476

LawMatters
Working with public libraries in the province, LawMatters provides all British Columbian residents with local access to basic legal information.
* http://bclawmatters.blogspot.com/
* 1.800.665.2570
The LawMatters project objectives are to provide public libraries with:
* Financial assistance for purchase of appropriate legal resources
* Bibliographies of recommended current resources
* Research guides on specific legal topics
* Training for public library staff
* Reference and referral support
* Consultation and advice for local libraries

Provincial Court of British Columbia
The Provincial Court is the first level of court in British Columbia. The Court's jurisdiction includes criminal, family, child protection, small claims, and traffic cases. The Court sits throughout the province and hundreds of people attend the Provincial Court every day. For these people, this Court represents the face of justice in British Columbia.
* http://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca
* (604) 660-2864
* Email: info@provincialcourt.bc.ca
The Court adopted the following statement of principles in 2002: As an independent judiciary, the Provincial Court of British Columbia is committed above all to upholding the Rule of Law and the Constitution of Canada. We aspire to be fair, impartial, compassionate and patient in a knowledgeable and consistent application of the law to all persons, with due regard to each person’s circumstances. We strive in serving the communities of BC to provide reasonable and equal access to justice for all persons through traditional and innovative processes which, to the extent permitted by law and our resources, are practical, speedy, inexpensive, and simple.

Simply Legal
Simply Legal is an online legal resource centre that is designed specifically for small businesses.

Simply Legal is excited about providing small businesses with an ideal alternative for getting incorporated without the costs of expensive legal fees.

All of Simply Legals online incorporation services are provided by Simply Legal Law Corporation which is a reputable law firm that is qualified and licensed to practice law in British Columbia. Simply Legal Law Corporation will ensure that you get properly incorporated in accordance with your wishes. Take less than 15 minutes to complete our online form and Simply Legal Law Corporation will take care of the rest. Its that easy!

Simply Legal is also excited about making quality legal kits and documents easily available to small businesses with its online EasyKits and EasyDocs.

All of Simply Legals kits and documents are prepared by qualified and licensed lawyers to assist small businesses with their legal needs for a fraction of the cost of expensive legal fees.
* http://www.simplylegal.ca/
* Tel: 7782281093
* Email: info@simplylegal.ca

Supreme Court of Canada
The Representing Yourself portal provides information and instructions on what is expected of you when you want to bring your own application for leave to appeal or when you have been named as a respondent on an application for leave to appeal. You will learn the process, step by step.
In this portal, you will find various links. The words that are underlined and in “quotations” will bring you to a Glossary of Terms where you will find their definition.
* http://www.scc-csc.gc.ca/litigantportal/index_e.asp
* (613) 995-4330
* Email: reception@scc-csc.gc.ca
* Fax: (613) 996-3063
Remember that the portal is a guide meant to give you helpful information, not legal advice. We always recommend that you get a “lawyer”. A lawyer is in the best position to give you advice about the process and the likelihood of success.

The Law Society of BC
Regulates BC lawyers and legal services, provides information to the public and publishes and distributes professional manuals and materials
* http://www.lawsociety.bc.ca
* 604-669-2533
* 1-800-903-5300 (Toll-free in BC)
* 604-443-5700 (hard of hearing)

The People’s Law School
Provides reliable information about people’s rights and responsibilities under the law. Brochures, manuals, and legal information are available in various languages (Japanese, Hindi, Urdu, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, etc).
* http://www.publiclegaled.bc.ca
* 604-331-5400
* Office hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm, Mon. – Fri.

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MEDIATION SERVICES

BC Mediation Roster Society
Provides mediators who are trained to help people resolve their disputes and reach agreements while remaining neutral.
* http://www.mediator-roster.bc.ca
* 250-356-8147 (in Victoria)
* 1-888-713-0433 (Toll free, elsewhere in BC)
* Office hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, Mon. – Fri.
Service provided is not free.

UBC CoRe Program
Provides affordable mediation and conflict resolution services to the community, campus organizations at UBC, and non-profit organizations through the CoRe Clinic.
* http://faculty.law.ubc.ca/coreclinic/index.html
* 604 827-5024 (tel)
* 604 822-0308 (fax)

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MULTICULTURAL AND IMMIGRATION SERVICES

AMSSA AMSSA
Affiliation of Multicutural Societies and Service Agencies of BC is an affiliation of more than 80 multicultural agencies providing immigrant settlement and multicultural services in communities throughout British Columbia. We create networking opportunities, disseminate information, provide professional development, and build organizational capacities for our members. AMSSA champions the promotion of multiculturalism, multicultural health, anti-racism and human rights.
* http://www.amssa.org/index.htm
* Tel: 604-718-2780 or 1-888-355-5560
* Email: amssa@amssa.org
* Fax: 604-298-0747
*Vision: AMSSA believes in a just and equitable society which values Canada's cultural diversity.
*Mission: AMSSA provides leadership in advocacy and education in British Columbia for anti-racism, human rights, and social justice. AMSSA supports its members in serving immigrants, refugees and culturally diverse communities.

Immigrant Services Society of BC
Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISS) was incorporated in 1972 as the first immigrant-serving agency in the province. Since that time, ISS has grown to be the largest, multicultural, immigrant-serving agency in western Canada. The society provides a variety of services to Lower Mainland immigrant and refugee communities, and works with over 23,000 clients per year. ISS has a volunteer Board of Directors, a paid staff of over 200 and over 600 active volunteers.
* http://www.issbc.org/
ISS provides programs and services through two divisions:
* The Language College and Career Services, headquartered at 333 Terminal Avenue in East Vancouver;
* The Settlement Section, headquartered at 530 Drake Street in Downtown South.

MOSAIC MOSAIC
MOSAIC is a multilingual non-profit organization dedicated to addressing issues that affect immigrants and refugees in the course of their settlement and integration into Canadian society.
MOSAIC's mandate is to support and to empower immigrant and refugee communities, helping them to address critical issues in their neighborhoods and workplace.
* http://www.mosaicbc.com/default.asp
* Tel.: (604) 254-9626
* E-mail: mosaic@mosaicbc.com
* Fax: (604) 254-3932

North Shore Multicultural Society
NSMS offers a full range of programs and services that link newcomers to the community.
We provide multilingual information, orientation and referral on the Canadian legal, financial and health systems, housing, shopping, recreation, transportation, social services, immigration, English language education and employment.
* http://www.nsms.ca/home.htm
* Tel: 604-988-2931
* Fax: 604-988-2960
Mission:North Shore Multicultural Society (NSMS) is dedicated to building a harmonious and inclusive North Shore community that assists immigrants and refugees to integrate successfully into life in Canada.

SUCCESS SUCCESS
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. is one of the largest immigration and social service agencies in British Columbia. Its mandate is to promote the well being of Canadians and immigrants, and to encourage their participation in the community. This is accomplished through delivering social services, employment services, business and economic development services, training and education services, health services (under the auspices of S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Multi-Level Care Society incorporated in 1995) and advocacy.
* http://www.successbc.ca/
* General Enquiries: 604-684-1628
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. offers extensive services to our clients through a network of eleven offices located across the Lower Mainland of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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TELEPHONE SERVICES

Dial-A-Law
A free 24-hour-a-day service that provides access to a library of pre-recorded messages on general legal information (e.g. the justice system, personal rights, etc.).
* http://www.dialalaw.org
* 604-687-4680 (Lower Mainland)
* 1-800-565-5297 (outside Lower Mainland within BC)

Kids Help Phone
Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only toll-free, national, bilingual, phone and web counselling, referral and information service for children and youth.
* kidshelpphone.ca
* Tel: 604-267-7057
* Email: bc@kidshelpphone.ca
* Fax: 604-267-7058
Staffed by trained professional counsellors with a wide variety of backgrounds including social work, psychology, sociology, and child and youth services, Kids Help Phone helped Canadian kids in need from almost 3,000 communities more than 2.2 million times on the phone and online in 2008.

Provincial Call Centre and LawLINE
Hotline service that provides brief legal advice to clients over the telephone. Staff can also answer questions about the law and direct clients to other services that can help solve their legal problems(No representation available).
* 604-408-2172
* 1-866-577-2525 (outside Lower Mainland within BC)
* Office hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, Wed.
Services include legal advice, written opinions, phone calls, letters/calls on client’s behalf to third parties, and help with correspondence and documents.