Author: Clicklaw Editor

Legal Help from Home: Amici Curiae’s Legal Forms Workshop

Community posts

Legal Help from Home is a Clicklaw Blog series highlighting free or low-cost resources available during COVID-19.

Public health directives associated with the response to the pandemic have changed accessibility to various services, creating what can be a confusing landscape for anyone needing access to legal resources. To ease confusion and highlight resources available and how to access them, Clicklaw has put together the Covid-19 Resources for British Columbians wikibook and will be featuring legal help and tools in this and other Clicklaw Blog posts. The resources featured in this series provide help beyond finding legal info and are accessible from home or remotely.

Navigating forms during COVID-19

Isolation or quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a variety of challenges for people who need help with filling out legal forms. The Amici Curiae Friendship Society offers free confidential workshops that help members of the public complete legal forms necessary to present a matter to a court or tribunal. This service is available to everyone regardless of their means. During the pandemic, the AC Friendship Society is providing virtual appointments in which a legal professional (such as a paralegal) will assist you with completing forms, under the supervision of a lawyer. Sometimes, legal advice is given to help complete a form.

How does it work?

Meetings are conducted via video conference using a software called Zoom. The first step is to receive a 30-minute training on how to use Zoom, then you will be booked for service.  If you are a victim of gendered violence or if you cannot use a computer, meetings will be done over the phone. For first time clients, an AC Friendship Society volunteer will help you write your legal history, for reference during your subsequent appointments. This requirement will be waived for temporary foreign workers seeking uncontested divorce applications, as well as for those on a tight deadline.

What can I ask about?

The AC Friendship Society can assist with filling out forms in most areas of law, as outlined here. During your meeting(s), which will run for one to two hours, you may ask for:

  • Details on how to fill out your forms
  • Guidance on next steps
  • Guidance on any additional documents you might need, and
  • Direction to further resources to help you down the legal path

The number of appointments allowed is unlimited, meaning that you decide how much support you need before you can move forward. How to Make the Most of Your Appointment with Amici Curiae (Friends of the Court) is a good guide on how to best use your time with the legal professionals at Amici Curiae.

How do I access it?

A screenshot of the Virtual AC website

For more information about obtaining assistance from the Amici Curiae Friendship Society, visit https://www.legalformsbc.ca/

Find it on Clicklaw: https://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/helpmap/service/1180.

Stay informed:

To stay informed on resources available during COVID-19 restrictions, visit Covid-19 Resources for British Columbians.

Find it on Clicklaw: https://www.clicklaw.bc.ca/resource/4725 or use short URL: bit.ly/covid19bc

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June 2020 Events

Events

Bookmark this post! It will be updated as more events are announced. You can also get frequent updates via our Twitter. Have a suggestion? Email us.

Educating & Helping the Public

Free or low cost events for the general public to understand and use the law. Follow the links to see cost & registration info. All times in Pacific Time unless stated otherwise. See disclaimer.
June 1-7 | June 8-14 | June 15-21 | June 22-30
Looking for events for intermediaries? Jump to the next section.

June 1-7

  • Settling an Estate in British Columbia: Probate from Three Perspectives (Webinar)
    by People’s Law School
    • What: Do you have questions about probate? Maybe you’ve studied the forms and have questions about how to complete them. Maybe you wonder if you need a lawyer. In this free 1-hour webinar, learn answers to common questions about dealing with an estate. Lawyer Nicole Garton will explain the process, paralegal Stacie Ayukawa will demystify forms, and Probate Registry supervisor Laura Hill will explain what happens after your application is filed. This webinar is designed to give you the information you need to navigate the process and empower you to proceed with clarity and confidence.
    • When: Wednesday, June 3, 2020 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    • Cost: Free
  • Art Law Talks: Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask a Lawyer, but Were Afraid to
    by Pacific Legal Education and Outreach Society (PLEO)
    • What: Lawyer Martha Rans, Legal Director of the Artists’ Legal Outreach in Vancouver will address current pressing legal issues of importance to the arts and cultural sector, covering discussion points driven by the questions that you provide in the online registration form.
    • When: Wednesday, June 3, 2020 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
    • Cost: Free

June 8-14

  • How to Hold a Virtual Annual General Meeting, Co-presented With Charity Village
    by Pacific Legal Education and Outreach Society (PLEO)
    • What: Are you currently planning your AGM and need assistance on how to manage virtually? Needing to hold an election or a vote? In this informative webinar presented by PLEO and Charity Village, find out how-to hold a virtual AGM for your organization in a way that meets the legal and safety requirements that this unique period demands. 
    • When: Wednesday, June 10, 12–1PM
    • Cost: Free
  • Meet BC’s Human Rights Commissioner, Kasari Govender (Zoom Meeting)
    by Office of the BC Human Rights Commission
    • What: The Commissioner is visiting the Province in the safest way possible right now – from her home! Until we can travel to meet with communities across B.C., we are hosting virtual regional conversations. The conversation will include an overview of the Office of the Human Rights Commission, discussion on BC’s Human Rights Code, and a conversation about human rights issues affecting your region.
    • When: Thursday, June 11, 2020 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM (for residents of BC’s Interior)
    • Cost: Free

June 15-21

  • Virtual Workshop on COVID-19 related Frauds and Scams (Webinar)
    by Seniors First BC
    • What: Fraudsters are using the coronavirus outbreak as an opportunity to try and trick the public with new phishing emails, phone calls and text messages. There are several coronavirus-related scams amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The most prevalent scams include. 1. Phone Calls 2. Text Messages 3. Phishing Emails 4. Door to door canvassing 5. Fake Charities & Websites 6. Social media & online shopping.
    • When: Monday, June 15, 2020 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    • Cost: Free
  • Focus on Seniors Webinar: Frauds & Scams (Webinar)
    by Seniors First BC in collaboration with City of Surrey
    • What: During these uncertain times, people are concerned about their health and well-being. Sadly, fraudsters are using the coronavirus outbreak as an opportunity to trick the public with seniors being the most vulnerable. It is imperative to be alert, stay informed and take precautions to ensure the health of yourself and your loved ones.
    • When: Monday, June 15, 2020 11:00 AM
    • Cost: Free
  • Virtual Workshop on Elder Abuse: What Is It? How Do We Deal With It? (Webinar)
    by Seniors First BC
    • What: Every year June 15 is an official United Nations International Day acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue.
    • When: Monday, June 15, 2020 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
    • Cost: Free
  • World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (Zoom Meeting)
    by Pacific Association of First Nations Women
    • What: The Vancouver Indigenous Crisis Response Network invites Indigenous elders, seniors and vulnerable adults and those who love them to join us.
    • When: Monday, June 15, 2020 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM via Zoom
    • Cost: Free
  • Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) Information Session Level 2 (Webinar)
    by Plan Institute
    • What: Learn all you need to know about this Canada-wide matched savings plan specifically for people with disabilities. Level 2 – For those who already have an RDSP and want to deepen their knowledge and learn how to maximize growth.
    • When: Tuesday, June 16, 2020 10:00 AM to 11:15 AM
    • Cost: Free
  • Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) Information Session Level 1 (Webinar)
    by Plan Institute
    • What: The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a Canada-wide registered matched savings plan specific to people with disabilities. Level 1 – For those who want to learn what an RDSP is, who qualifies, how to apply for the Disability Tax Credit, and how to open an RDSP.
    • When: Wednesday, June 17, 2020 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
    • Cost: Free
  • Virtual Workshop on Government Benefits (Zoom webinar)
    by Seniors First BC
    • What: Seniors First BC hosts a Zoom workshop focusing on Government benefits for the elderly.
    • When: Wednesday, June 17, 2020 1:30 PM
    • Cost: Free
  • Disability Tax Credit and RDSPs Info Session (Zoom webinar)
    by Disability Alliance BC
    • What: Disability Tax Credit and Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) Info Session featuring speakers from Disability Alliance BC via Zoom. ASL is provided.
    • When: Thursday, June 18, 2020 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Email: laur.stinson@gmail.com for the login Info.
    • Cost: Free

June 22-30

  • Do’s and Don’ts of Starting a Non Profit – Vancouver (Webinar)
    by Pacific Legal Education and Outreach Society
    • What: Are you thinking of starting a Non Profit? Are you new to a board? This online workshop will provide you with everything you need to know to get started on your passion project, turning your idea into an organization.
    • When: Wednesday, June 24, 2020 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    • Cost: $50

Learning & Community Building

Free or low cost professional development events for intermediaries, the people providing information and support to members of the public in their interactions with the legal system. We only include those that are open to non-lawyers. Also, events by organizations who help British Columbians in their interactions with the legal system. All times in Pacific Time unless stated otherwise. See disclaimer.
June 1-7 | June 8-14 | June 15-21 | June 22-30
Looking for public legal education events? Go back to the beginning.

June 1-7

  • BC Public Library Staff: JP Boyd on Upcoming Changes to the Divorce Act (Webinar)
    by John-Paul Boyd, QC and Courthouse Libraries British Columbia (CLBC)
    • What: Based on the feedback we’ve heard from attendees, and the fact that the new Divorce Act will come into force in July of 2020, we have decided to focus our last webinar in this legal reference series on the changes to the Act to help prepare BC public library staff to provide reference services on this topic. John-Paul will begin by discussing basic principles on the topic before opening the floor to questions.
    • When: Wednesday, June 3, 2020 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
    • Cost: Free

June 8-14

  • Sexual Violence & COVID-19: Frontline Perspectives (Webinar)
    by Ending Violence Association of Canada
    • What: COVID-19 is having a major impact on sexual assault centres and other organizations supporting survivors of sexual violence. Join in a virtual conversation hosted by the Ending Violence Association of Canada to hear frontline perspectives across the country on these impacts. This virtual event will feature speakers from across the country to discuss needs, experiences, and challenges. This is offered in English and French.
    • When: Wednesday, June 10, 2020 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM (PDT)
    • Cost: Free
  • Updates on COVID-related EI Issues (Webinar)
    by Kevin Love (lawyer at CLAS), hosted by the Law Foundation of BC
    • What: An opportunity to get updates about changes in EI that have been instituted in response to COVID, and do ask questions about issues you are seeing in your work.
    • When: Thursday, June 11, 2020 02:00 PM
    • Cost: Free

June 15-21

  • BC Gender Equality Report Card: An Overview (Webinar)
    by West Coast LEAF; hosted by Courthouse Libraries BC (CLBC)
    • What: Join West Coast LEAF for an overview of the findings of their BC Gender Equality Report Card 2019/2020, which assesses the BC government’s recent progress on the human rights of women and transgender, Two-Spirit, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people.
    • When: Monday, June 15, 2020 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
    • Cost: Free
  • Best Practices for Public Legal Information (Webinar)
    by People’s Law School
    • What: Do you produce legal information for the public in British Columbia? In this free one-hour webinar, learn strategies to make your information even better. People’s Law School has teamed up with other public legal information non-profits to develop best practices and other tools to help you produce information your audience trusts, understands and uses. Learn how, if you substantially follow the best practices, you can qualify to use a new Quality Mark™ on your information.
    • When: Tuesday, June 16, 2020 – 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
    • Cost: Free
  • Exploring the Updated Practical Guide to Elder Abuse and Neglect Law in Canada (Webinar)
    by Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse
    • What: In this webinar, CCEL National Director Krista James, will provide an update on aspects of the law related to elder abuse, and introduce features of the updated guide. The webinar will cover aspects of the law in each province and territory. Following the webinar, participants will be invited to comment on parts of the draft new Guide to assist the CCEL in developing a Guide that addresses everyone’s legal information needs.
    • When: Thursday, June 18, 2020, 10 AM Pacific / 1 PM Eastern
    • Cost: Free
  • Skillfully Responding to Distress (Zoom webinar)
    by The Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC
    • What: This half-day session explores how to skillfully respond to and de-escalate emotional distress. Content includes understanding the stress response, active listening, applying a crisis intervention model, facilitating the development of a short-term coping plan for a person in crisis, boundary setting, and self-care. Incorporates videos, small group discussions and case studies.
    • When: Friday, June 19, 2020 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM (PDT)
    • Cost: Standard Registration: $45; Student/Low Income: $25

June 22-30, 2020

  • Crisis. Change. Reform. Access to Justice: People First (Online talk)
    by Action Committee On Access To Justice
    • What: CBC host Duncan McCue in conversation with Beverley McLachlin, Bob Rae & Megan Longley
    • When: Tue, June 23, 2020, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
    • Cost: Free
  • Métis Legal Issues (Webinar)
    by Justice Ducharme, Jean Teillet, Patricia Barkaskas; hosted by Courthouse Libraries BC (CLBC)
    • What: This 2-hour webinar will explore some of the history of Métis people in Canada and legal issues specific to Métis people. The panelists will cover a brief history of who the Métis people are, and how the Gladue principles and s. 718.2(e) of the Criminal Code apply to Métis people.
    • When: Tuesday, June 23, 2020 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM (PDT)
    • Cost: Free
  • AC LEXtures: Client Interviewing Techniques in a Virtual World (Webinar)
    by Law Courts Center
    • What: Learn how to communicate effectively with clients when using Zoom or the phone; and help them move from an emotional state so they can best manage their file.
    • When: Tuesday, June 23, 2020 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
    • Cost: Single Zoom Seat Sale – $75.00, Amici Curiae and Social Justice In-Person Rate: $0 (Suggested tax deductible donation $75)

Disclaimer: These events are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by the Clicklaw team of any of the products or services of the organizations. Contact the external site for questions regarding their events.

Stay informed:

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