Created by the BC Law Institute, the Canadian Centre for Elder Law is a national, non-profit body dedicated to exploring the particular legal issues which affect older Canadians through research, law reform, and education. CCEL has published plain language materials on these topics targeting health care practitionners, non-profit organizations, and the general public.
The OmbudService for Life and Health Insurance (OLHI) is a free, fast, independent, and impartial alternative dispute resolution public service for Canadian life and health insurance consumers.
OLHI provides accurate and accessible information about life and health insurance concerns.
This includes guiding consumers through the complaints process, answering their questions, and helping them find lost policies or policies of deceased loved ones.
A hub for Albertans to become more confident to engage in personal, financial, legal and health planning – those many processes that comprise advance care planning.
Get mental health support across Canada for kids, teens and young adults. Also serving 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. Available 24 hours a day.
Call 1-800-668-6868
tel:1-800-668-6868
Text CONNECT to 686868
Chat online https://kidshelpphone.ca/urgent-help
The Hope for Wellness Helpline is available to all Indigenous people across Canada. Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are reachable by telephone and online ‘chat’ 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Telephone support is available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. Online Chat services are only available in English and French.
Visit CPLEA’s collection of plain language legal resources for condominium law. Great information ranging from how to run board meetings, buying a resale condominium, or hiring a manager.
Free legal information for Alberta consumers buying a condo, living in one, or considering selling or renting their condominium.
Read about the Myths about Chld Support, learn about taxes and child support, and stay up to date with changes to the laws surrounding child support in Alberta.
Get your questions about Adoption Records answered on CPLEA’s Family website.
Watch our informative video for new parents, and read about becoming a private guardian for a child.
Free Domestic Violence resource that CPLEA offers that are available in either Print or as a Download.
These resources provide general legal information to those dealing with Domestic Violence in Alberta. These material do NOT provide legal advice!
CPLEA’s collection of free resources on Domestic Violence and Elder Abuse. Watch our videos and read our pdfs to learn about the laws surrounding abuse and family violence in Alberta.
Learn about laws on Abuse in Alberta. LawNow regularly publishes up to date articles on Abuse and the law in Alberta.
CPLEA’s website LandlordandTenant.org informs Albertans about everything they need to know about renting law.
CPLEA’s website CondoLawAlberta.ca: Plain language legal information for Alberta consumers who are buying a condo, living in one, or considering selling or renting their condo.
The Alberta Securities Commission is the regulatory agency responsible for administering the province’s securities laws. This page provides information on how to file a complaint. ASC use complaints filed by the public as well as other means to identify potential breaches of securities laws, and take enforcement action including investigating and prosecuting either administratively or quasi-criminally, as appropriate, to protect investors and the integrity of Alberta’s capital market.
The Alberta Securities Commission is the regulatory agency responsible for administering the province’s securities laws. This page provides a link to “Spot the red flags” informaton on how to recognize and avoid investment scams.
This website provides age-appropriate information to help kids, teens and parents deal with a family break up. Select jurisdiction (Alberta) from the drop down menu. The website was produced by the Justice Education Society in collaboration with Centre for Public Legal Education, Alberta.
Divorce 101 in Alberta is an informative and easy-to-understand animated video that guides the viewer through the divorce process. This video will inform people of the steps to take by self-representing themselves, utilizing a mediator, or when to hire a lawyer.
An alphabetical list of terms and definitions for condominium law in Alberta
An alphabetical list of terms or words found in or relating to landlord and tenant law in Alberta.
A guide to the rights of Albertans who are experiencing homelessness. Topics covered include: Charter Rights, The Police, Security Guards, Panhandling , Loitering, Camping on Private Property, Camping on Public Property, Voting, Using a Washroom and more. Thie guide also provides links to WHO CAN I CALL FOR MORE HELP OR INFORMATION?
Find where you can get the help you need by answering a few simple questions about your financial situation.
A parenting plan is a written document that outlines how parents will raise their children after separation or divorce. This interactive tool will give you some options to develop a personalized parenting plan. This tool is a resource developed by Justice Canada. It is not intended as legal advice.
Information covered includes: Making plans: A guide to parenting arrangements after separation or divorce – Learn about parenting after separation and divorce and how to decide on the best parenting arrangement for your children and a Parenting Plan Checklist – Read about some of the issues you need to think about when you develop your parenting plan
You need a lawyer to create an international will, which must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT).
This article discusses the options available to a debtor when they file for bankruptcy and their are inheritance issues.
When you apply for a credit card, you are entering into a contract. Like any contract, it is legally binding and gives each party certain rights and responsibilities.
On this page you will find information on:
This information is brought to you by the RCMP. It provides statistics and facts about cybercrime and its impact on youth. The provides information on sexting, criminal harassment, and child exploitation.
Having a Will and Making Funeral Plans – Information to help.
This publication provides general information about Powers of Attorney that deal with finances and property, and general information about joint bank accounts.
The Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) is a National Indigenous Organization representing the political voice of Indigenous women, girls and gender diverse people in Canada, inclusive of First Nations on and off reserve, status and non-status, disenfranchised, Métis and Inuit. NWAC works on a variety of issues such as employment, labour and business, health, violence prevention and safety, justice and human rights, environment, early learning childcare and international affairs.
A deferred payment plan happens when arrangements are made for a debt to go unpaid until sometime in the future. This publication provieds an overview of the ins and outs of a deferred payment plan and what it means to the consumer.
Both the City of Edmonton and City of Calgary have passed bylaws about the licencing of short-term rentals. The City of Edmonton’s bylaw about short-term rentals is already in effect. The City of Calgary’s bylaw about short-term rentals will come into effect on February 1, 2020.
This page provides information on short-term rentals in Edmonton only. Information about short-term rentals in Calgary will be added to this page. If you have a question about short-term rentals outside of Edmonton, contact your local municipality.
This activity sheet is a twist on the classic children’s game that helps players learn how to make smart privacy choices by climbing up a ladder when they make a good decision or sliding down a snake because they have shared a password with a friend, for example.
CCAA is supports professionals, communities, victims and witnesses involved in the investigation of child abuse through the development and delivery of educational products and services; promotion of a coordinated, interdisciplinary approach to child abuse investigations; identification and response to key issues and concerns of child abuse investigators; advocacy for excellence and professionalism in the investigation of child abuse; promotion of the well-being of children and families going through the investigative process; provision of professional training and research.
Insurance-related information on floods, wildfires, voluntary sector, property insurance, complaints and preparing for emergencies.
Summary, collision worksheet form, tips to remember and steps to follow after an automobile collision.
Learn about legal options and debt repayment if you caused injury to someone in a motor vehicle accident and you didn’t have insurance.
The WRC helps Alberta workers through advocacy, a Casework Program, and Public Legal Education. If you need help with an employment issue, the WRC is ready to help.
This resource helps parents walk through the steps of creating parenting plan. A parenting plan is a written document that outlines how parents will raise their children after separation or divorce. This interactive tool will give you some options to develop a personalized parenting plan. This tool is not intended as legal advice.
This blog post clarifies the current law in terms of the human rights of residential tenants in Alberta, identifies concerns about a lack of effective protection of tenants’ human rights at the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service, and suggests that lawyers and advocates working in this area should ask questions to determine if discrimination is occurring and, if so, make their clients aware of their rights and how they can protect them.
The Government of Alberta has many programs to help lower income Albertans. This guide can help find out what’s available. Programs are listed in seven groups:Work and Work Skills, Financial, Housing, Legal Assistance, Health Expenses, Families with Children, and People with Disabilities. For each program, you will find an outline of what it does and where to go for information.This guide is up-to-date as of March 2005.
The Consumer Bill of Rights outlines the protections that consumers have when buying goods or signing contracts.
On this webpage the Canada Revenue AGency provides information and helpful resources for Canadians on various consumer scams and fraudulent schemes. Learn more about:
Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association was established in 1989 as the Alberta Community Police Advisory Committee by provincial Police Services as a means to discuss mutual crime related issues within communities/police/government. In 1990 it became the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association (ACCPA). ACCPA’s goal is to ensure safety to Albertans and their communities through education and crime prevention awareness.
Being a Guarantor is a big responsibility that can have serious consequences. This booklet will help you understand all that is involved in being a Guarantor.
Alberta has a Personal Directive Registry. The registry permits Albertans to voluntarily register the existence of their personal directive and contact information for your agents(s). If you have questions about the registry you can contact the Office of the Public Guardian toll free at 1-877-427-4525.
Please note: Registering your personal directive is optional. It’s valid even if you don’t register it.
Find commonly used application forms, affidavits, notices and tip sheets for residential tenancy disputes in Alberta.
Calgary Legal Guidance provides free legal advice for individuals with low income. If you need legal information and advice on: Family issues; Criminal issues; Civil issues; Restraining Orders; Emergency Protection Orders etc; Social Benefit issues; and; an evening course on Do Your Own Divorce.
Calgary Legal Guidance runs many workshops and presentations in the community on a variety of legal topics such as:
If you are an organization or agency that would like a presentation on a legal topic please contact Kim Feodoroff at 403.716.6476.
This booklet produced by Student Legal Services at the University of Alberta looks at the rules and expectations of their landlord when living in a student residence. Student residences are housing options where the tenant is the student and the landlord is the student’s school. The Residential Tenancies Act does not apply to student residences UNLESS the residence unit is self-contained (dormitory style residences are not self-contained.
Rights and responsibilities for landlords and tenants, and how to resolve disputes.
The Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre (SKCAC) is a non-profit organization that, together with their partners, takes a leadership role to advance the way our country understands and addresses child abuse. They work with their partner organizations to provide wrap-around services to assess, investigate, intervene, and support survivors of child abuse while bringing offenders to justice.
A lighthearted twist on a serious topic, here are five excuses, together with my rebuttal, for you to share with colleagues and clients or consider in your own situation. This article first appeared in LawNow Magazine Vol 42-1: Wills and Estates.
Leaving a legacy is no simple matter. Planning ahead is the best way to ensure that you maximize the benefit to your families and loved ones even after you’ve kicked the bucket. A series of articles that provide information on the wills and estates planning.
This resource discusses what happens to your estate if you die without a will. A will is a document that says how you wish property to be divided after your death.
This onine resource prepared by Calgary Legal Guidance discusses the requirements for making a will valid in Alberta.
This online resource from Calgary Legal Guidance discusses Enduring Powers of Attorney in Alberta. An Enduring Power of Attorney should be prepared ahead of time before you suffer mental incapacity or illness which renders you unable to make sound decisions about your money and business matters. By an Enduring Power of Attorney, you appoint someone you trust to make decisions for you at a future time when you no longer have the capacity to make your own decisions.
This online information discusses Powesr of Attorney in Alberta. A Power of Attorney gives someone authority to handle your financial and estate matters. It is a written document that says someone else, your agent, can step into your shoes and act with the same authority as you have in looking after your finances and estate.
Information page which explains how to use a personal directive to name someone to make personal decisions for you are incapable due to illness or injury. Links to form, information on how to register your directive and where you can get help to complete the process.
This page provides information for Albertans on the topic of separation and divorce. The purpose is to make Albertans aware of their legal rights and responsibilities.
A series of videos that gives instructions to complete and file the paperwork required to get a divorce in Alberta.
Information on getting a divorce in Alberta. Provides general information on how to apply, what forms are required, and how to request a Certificate of Divorce.
This Alberta court page providesaccess to forms and instructions to complete an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce is one where custody, access (parenting) and support have been settled. The forms do not deal with property division.
How to change an order for child support if the other party lives outside Alberta.
Includes information on:
This brochure is designed as a resource to provide you with the information you need about cannabis along with some effective tools to help you set the stage for a conversation about cannabis and engage in productive discussions with your teen about cannabis and other substance use. The brochure was produced by Drug Free Kids Canada, in collaboration with Health Canada and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction,
Information for condominium owners, landlords and tenants about cannabis restrictions in condos, apartments and rental homes.
This guide was design for parents to prepare them for the conversations they may need to have with their kids when they first start using digital devices, as they grow and their online activities change, and when things go wrong. The guide is divided into three sections that each deal with a different aspect of digital citizenship: Respect People’s Feelings, to Respect Privacy and to Respect Property online.
This report was prepared by the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre discusses the rights of adults (persons who are 18 years or older) who have been accused or convicted of crimes and are either being held in custody in Alberta jails or correctional institutions or being supervised in the community by correctional authorities (for example, those released on bail, parole or other forms of conditional release).
This information on reporting fraud is prepared by the Edmonton Police Service. It provides information on how to report a fraud to the police when you’re a victim
This kit has been designed for landlords, property managers and anyone else who works on-site or has access to residential rental units. It will help you understand the role you can play in preventing domestic violence on your premises. It also provides basic information on
dealing with domestic violence when it does occur.
This Alberta government webpage provides information on how to apply to change an agreement or court order for spousal and partner support. You can apply for: an increase, if you’re the recipient of support or a decrease, if you’re the payor of support. Links to the forms required to apply and information on how to complete the forms.
This Alberta government webpage provides information on how to apply to change the conditions of your Custody and Access Order. The information provided includes how to apply if an order is from Alberta and how to apply if an order is from outside Alberta.
Custody is the rights and responsibilities of the children’s care and upbringing. This information is provided by Calgary Legal Guidance. It discusses custody, parenting, and contact of children after separation or divorce.
This Alberta government site provides informtation on how to apply for spousal or partner support if you or the other party lives outside Alberta. An Interjurisdictional Support Order (ISO) application can create, change or enforce a support order when the payor or recipient lives outside Alberta. Did you know you can prepare an ISO application if you: were divorced outside Canada, were never married, were married but a divorce action hasn’t been started, aren’t making a first-time application for support, and haven’t started a divorce action in Alberta.
This information on how to apply for spousal and partner support in Alberta. You can apply for spousal or partner support as long as you have care and control over a child, even if you’re not their parent. Page provides information on getting started, documents needed, what forms to use, how to file a claim, As well as information on how to file an interjurisdicational Support Order Applications if the other party lives outside Alberta.
Gift cards purchased in Alberta are no longer subject to expiry dates and fees that lower their value over time. This tipsheet provides information on the Alberta’s Gift Card Regulation, which is part of the Consumer Protection Act,. It also includes information on other rules that help to improve consumer protections, use of the cards and disclosure of terms and conditions.
When someone uses personal information such as your name, Social Insurance number (SIN), credit card number or other identifying information without your knowledge or permission, it is identity theft and it is a crime. This tipsheet provides information on: how businesses and community groups can raise awarenes of identity theft, how to protect your identity when you are away from home, and how to report ID theft.
In Alberta, the Mobile Home Sites Tenancies Act applies to people who own a mobile home and rent the mobile home site from a landlord. This law sets out the rights and responsibilities that apply to these tenancies,
This publication provides general information about the MHSTA and the two supporting regulations.
This tipsheet provindes information to help Albertans protect themselves from being an unwilling participant in mortgage fraud. If you are going to invest in real estate, make sure you are using a licensed mortgage broker is is registered under the Real Estate Act in Alberta.
The Time Share Contracts Regulation under the Consumer Protection Act has been expanded to include the sale of points-based time share contracts. This tipsheet provides information if you offer, solicit, negotiate or conclude a traditional time share or points-based time share contract in Alberta.
In Alberta, most companies that sell products door-to-door must be licensed under the Consumer Protection Act and the Direct Selling Business Licensing Regulation. Door-to-door sales people sell everything from encyclopedias and magazines to home improvements. If a contract is signed in person,negotiated or concluded away from the seller’s usual place of business, it is considered a direct sale.
The Time Share and Points-Based Contracts and Business Regulation under the Consumer Protection Act(CPA) sets out the rules for businesses selling time share.
If you buy or sell goods through a public auction in Alberta, it is important to know that the business holding the auction must be licensed by the province and post security. The Fair Trading Act, the Public Auctions Regulation and Section 57 of the Sale of Goods Act regulate public auction businesses in Alberta. This tipsheet outline the rules and regulations that must be followed by Alberta businesses that sell goods by public auction.
The Consumer Investigations Unit (CIU) of ServiceAlberta is responsible for Alberta’s consumerprotection and tenancy laws. This infosheet explains how to file a consumer complaint with
Service Alberta and when an investigation maybe opened, as well as other options available to consumers.
This booklet will give you general information about the law relating to guardianship, parenting, custody, access and contact.and the principles applied by the court when deciding matters relating to the care of children. If your application deals with these issues, you should read this booklet before starting to fill out your court forms. This information is general in nature, and is not intended to be an in-depth discussion of all legal issues relating to children.
The Family Law Project provides basic legal information on the following topics:
In addition, the Family Law Project assists people in obtaining uncomplicated child support orders and variations, as well as related applications.
The mission of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Edmonton is to foster the dignity and worth of women who come into conflict with the law, and help them live as valued members of their communities. They are a not-for-profit organization that has existed in Edmonton since 1977. The society offers a variety of programs for women and girls including a legal clinic. The Legal Clinic Program assists federally sentenced women at Edmonton Institute for Women by addressing their legal needs.
Sagesse assists women who have experienced domestic violence or are at risk of being abused. They empower individuals, organizations and communities to break the cycle of domestic violence by curating environments to heal and lead safe, healthy lives . The literal translation of Sagesse is wisdom.The agency encourages the wisdom to seek help, to support and connect, to share knowledge, to self-reflect, and lastly, to create space for healing, learning, and growth.
This series of plain language resources addresses the needs of individuals involved in the child welfare system. It includes a visual, low literacy guide to the child welfare court process as well as several “need to know” fact sheets. This special project was made possible by funding from the Alberta Law Foundation.
The CBA Family Law Section has collaborated with Justice Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency and Finance Canada to develop the Tax Matters Toolkit. The Toolkit will help family law lawyers and their clients understand how tax rules might affect their future finances on separation or divorce. It explains the various credits, benefits and deductions, and will help you navigate and apply the often complex tax laws to the particular circumstances.
The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada has created this graphic novel to help young Canadians to better understand and navigate privacy issues in the online world. The 12-page graphic novel– is designed to appeal to tweens and younger teens. The novel was developed with feedback from young people, it tells the story of a brother and sister who learn (sometimes the hard way) about the privacy risks related to social networking, mobile devices and texting, and online gaming.To accompany the graphic novel, they have also developed a discussion guide that educators can use to generate further discussion and learning.
Calgary Counselling Centre is a charitable organization committed to providing compassionate, professional, and affordable counselling services to Calgarians. They offer counselling and group programs for individuals, couples, parents, families, and youth to help them resolve emotional and social problems. In addition to its may group and individual program services the Centre also offers a Male Domestic Abuse Outreach Program which provides counselling, advocacy, social service referrals (housing, financial aid, legal guidance, support) to men and their families experiencing domestic abuse of all forms.
This card, produced by BearPaw Legal provides information for students and parents on the School Act relating to their rights related to atending school in Alberta, as well as suspension and expulsion from school. See also their video that helps parents through a suspension or expulsion in Alberta schools.http://www.bearpaweducation.ca/videos/suspensions-and-expulsions-school-alberta
The NCECC functions as the point of contact for investigations related to the sexual exploitation of children on the Internet in Canada.
The Victim Justice Network is a non-profit national organization whose mission is to establish an online-based network to better serve and support victims of crime. One of its objectives is to promote public awareness and public education on issues of importance to victims of crime.
Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada is a registered charity. They provide credit counselling and debt management services for Canadians. Their mission is to assist individuals and families in ending financial crises and to help them solve money management problems through education, motivation, and professional counselling.
The National Self-Represented Litigants Project (NSRLP) is committed to advancing understanding of the challenges and hard choices facing the very large numbers of Canadians who come to court without counsel. The Project works to promote dialogue and collaboration among all those affected by the self-represented litigant phenomenon, both justice system professionals and litigants themselves. They publish resources designed specifically for SRLs, as well as research reports that examine the implications for the justice system.
Complaints | How it works. If you have a serious concern, you can file a written complaint with the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee. If it meets the criteria, it can be investigated. If you have a serious concern, you can file a written complaint about a: co-decision-maker, guardian, trustee, personal directive agent. If your complaint meets the criteria, the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee can open an investigation.These criteria are set in law. They’re from the Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act and the Personal Directives Act.
The Women’s Resource Centre was born on March 10, 1984 with goals of referring women to the appropriate agencies to gain assistance, as well as having drop-in hours. The Centre has a resource library, implements social programs and assists those in need through their thrift store and various services.
Community Initiatives Against Family Violence (CIAFV) is committed to strengthening Edmonton’s capacity to take constructive action against family violence and bullying using innovative strategies that will support the creation of a collaborative, coordinated, community response to family violence and bullying.
In August 2016, the Residential Tenancies (Safer Spaces for Victims of Domestic Violence) Amendment Act, Termination of Tenancy (Domestic Violence) Regulation, and amendments to the RTA Ministerial Regulation, were proclaimed. These changes to the RTA allow victims of domestic violence to end a tenancy early and without financial penalty. This legislation applies in cases where if the tenancy continues: • The tenant’s safety is at risk; • A dependant child’s safety is at risk; or • A protected adult’s safety is at risk.
This web page has information about your legal responsibilities when you have a joint or shared credit card. It describes how authorized users (or secondary users) can affect you and your liabilities.
This page on CPLEA’s Canadian Legal FAQs website provides information for Albertan who find themselves in debt and are thinking of declaring bankruptcy Topics covered include: debt and debt control, options other than declaring bankruptcy, collection agencies and links to help and more information.
The Rainbow Pages is a resource guide developed by The Family Centre to provide Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual+ (2SLGBTQIA+) youth and youth-serving communities with a consolidated guide of support available in Edmonton. We provide a directory of services and supports on our website as well as physical brochures for organizations and the community.
Credit Counselling Society is an accredited member of Credit Counselling Canada (CCC), a national association of not-for-profit credit counselling agencies specializing in debt consolidation alternatives and credit counselling The Credit Counselling Society is nationally registered with the Canada Revenue Agency as a non-profit, charitable organization.
Your rights when renting: Human rights in Alberta is a series of resources funded by the Alberta Human Rights Education and Multicultural Fund. In this project the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA) has created resources for multicultural communities to learn about their rental rights under the Alberta Human Rights Act. These resources use real-life scenarios to explain what landlords are allowed to do and not do under the Act. The resources also explain what remedies are available and how individuals can access these remedies.
Sometimes married couples and common-law spouses may want to consider a separation agreement when their relationship ends. An agreement will help outline:
These video resources have been produced by Alberta Justice – Resolution Services to assist Albertans going through the divorce process. – There are four vidoes which provide information on the following:
This publication from Alberta Children and Youth Services (Prevention of Family Violence and Bullying Unit) explains the nature of abuse of persons with disabilites. It then describes what you can do if you realize that you are in an abusive relationship or you are concerned about a friend who may be in such a situation. (PDF – 15 pages)
REACH is Edmonton’s Council for Safe Communities. REACH is a community-based organization working to mobilize and coordinate organizations, community groups and Edmontonians to find innovative solutions to prevention and community safety.
Today Family Violence Help Centre is an Edmonton based, non-profit organization that offers a safe place for individuals victimized by family violence to access free, confidential, emotional and practical support. Today Centre provides short-term support through risk assessment, safety planning, assessment of immediate needs, and supported referrals.
This is a guide on how to buy products and services in Alberta and contains information about your consumer rights. You will need to buy certain items and you will need to use certain services as you settle into as you start your new life in Alberta.
This is a publication of the Canadian Justice Council which seeks to foster discussion on the role of both judges and reporters in giving the public a better understanding of issues relating to the administration of justice in Canada.
This video explains the traditional role of Aboriginal grandparents, the historical significance of family members being severed from one another, and what a grandparent can do to maintain connection to their grandchild in government care in Alberta today. Grandparents will learn about Family Group Conferences, guardianship, kinship care, and visitation and feel empowered in their sacred family role.
These guidelines support the creation of welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments that foster diversity and nurture a sense of belonging and a positive sense of self . Their purpose is to enable school authorities to use best practices in creating and supporting learning environments that respect diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. (January 2016)
Pivot’s mandate is to use the law to address the root causes of poverty and social exclusion. Pivot carries out its work through legal campaigns around policing, housing, and sex work that would result in meaningful positive change for people living in poverty.
This web page prepared by the Canadian government has information about parental abduction both inside and outside Canada. It describes how to prevent parental abduction, and what Canadian officials in other countries can and can’t do to help if your child has been abducted.
These pages on the Alberta Justice website provide information and answers to common questions for Albertans on administering estates for deceased people, family property division on death, and planning ahead for your will.
The Calgary Chinese Community Service Association is an ethnocultural community service agency. CCSA offers four core programs: Children and Youth, Integration and Civic Engagement (ICE), Health Program, and Legal Program. Their Law and Advocacy Program is funded by the Alberta Law Foundation and provides a range of services including: basic legal information and referrals, Commissioner for Oaths and Notary, a free legal outreach clinic. and free Wills & Estates Document Drafting Services (CCCSA provides free drafting services for Personal Directives, Enduring Powers of Attorney, and Wills for low-income seniors (ages 65+). Asset screening will be conducted for eligibility. and will and estate documents drafting services.)
This article was prepared for the Centre`s for Excellence for Child-Wellbeing as an overview of child welfare in Alberta.
Responding to Child Abuse in Alberta: A Handbook , provides guidelines around the reporting and investigation of child abuse, with the goal of ensuring the safety and well being of Alberta’s children. The handbook was jointly developed by the Ministers of Health and Wellness, Education, Children’s Services, Justice and Attorney General, and Solicitor General and Public Security, in consultation with organizations and professionals that provide services for children.This handbook covers: how to recognize abuse and neglect, how to respond to a disclosure of abuse or neglect from a child, how to report abuse and neglect and intervene, how investigations are undertaken and the role of service providers, the rules governing the sharing of information among service providers, and the importance of collaboration among all those working with children and families
The Canadian Network of Women’s Shelters and Transition Houses new online resource which provides women and their children with a one stop connection to help in their community.
This court procedure booklet is a guide for people who are bankrupt, but have not been granted a discharge from bankruptcy. If your trustee is no longer responsible for making another application for discharge, this guidebook will help you make your own application for discharge from bankruptcy
Catholic Social Services is a multi-function social service agency that serves people of all faiths and cultures throughout central Alberta. Founded in 1961, the agency has grown to deliver more than 100 programs.CSS is divided into Service and Program areas offered in five distinct Regions throughout central and northeast Alberta
Family Justice Services are a group of programs and services offered by Alberta Justice in collaboration with the courts of Alberta. This webpage provides general information for those who are representing themselves in a family matter in either Court of Queen’s Bench or The Provincial Court of Alberta. Family Law includes all of the legal issues that arise when couples separate or when parties are parenting children together. Family Law does not include criminal charges against a family member, or issues that arise when a family member dies. This site provides general information only.
Alberta Supports can help you access more than 30 programs and 120 community services for:
You can apply online or call for assistance. Help is available in more than 100 languages.
This information on adult interdependent relationships is provided by Calgary Legal Guidance. This topic page discusses common-law relationships now called Adult Interdependent Relationships as set out in Alberta’s Adult Interdependent Relationships Act
These FAQs are provided by the Canadian Legal FAQs, a website of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. They provide answers to questions about the Criminal Code of Canada. On this page you will find general information FAQs on the Code, shoplifting, and joyriding.
This colourful information sheet provides legal information about payday loans and debt problems for all ages and can be folded to fit comfortably in a wallet. (Dimensions 9cm x 43cm)
This booklet is a publication of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. It provides general information on life leases.A life lease agreement occurs when a person buys the exclusive right to occupy a unit in a particular development for life, a fixed term or until the person can no longer live independently within the unit.
Do you have questions about and your rights as a tenant when you have lost your job? Take a look at our new resource for answers to some common questions.
If you have a problem while renting, this tip sheet can help you figure out what to do. The tipsheet is a publication of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta.
The world of dating is different than it used to be, this booklet provides important information about legal issues related to new relationships. This booklet is produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta.
Alberta Family Mediation Society (AFMS) advocates resolution of family conflict through the use of mediation by qualified professionals. AFMS offers a family-centered conflict resolution process in which an impartial third party (the mediator) helps the participants in negotiating a consensual, informed and fair agreement.
This booklet provides information on the Alberta Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act and explains what happens when someone calls Child and Family Services on their family.
This website has guides to separation and divorce for kids, for teens, and for parents. The information in the guides for kids and teens is delivered by drawn characters and the content is spoken and written in easily understood language. For parents, in addition to the guide, there are two online courses, Parenting After Separation, and Parenting After Separation: Finances. The kids’ and teens’ guides are also available in French.
This website has information about elder abuse, with brochures and videos on these topics: What You Can Do When Abuse or Neglect Is Happening to an Older Adult in Your Life, How You Can Identify Abuse and Help Older Adults at Risk, and What You Can Do to Keep Yourself Safe from Abuse
This website provides legal information for Alberta consumers who are thinking about buying a condo, currently living in one, or considering selling or renting their condo.
This is a series of publications developed with funding from Employment and Social Development Canada. The multimedia resource package is focused on increasing the knowledge and awareness of how intermediaries can use the law to prevent and reduce elder abuse. (Resources are available in English and French)
On this webpage Service Alberta provides information on who is elgible, how to make a legal change of name, what are the costs involved, and what to do after you apply.
Alberta’s continuing care system provides Albertans with the health, personal care and accommodation services they need to support their independence and quality of life. This website section from Alberta Health provides information about the three settings in which continuing care services are provided: Home living; Supportive living; and Facility living.
Service Alberta’s divisions are committed to delivering high-quality business, financial, information and technology services to government ministries as well as a diverse range of services that touch the lives of Albertans. Divisions include: Consumer Information; Businesses and Charities; Landlords & Tenants; Registries; Drivers and Vehicles; Land Titles; Vital Statistics; Information and Technology; and Government Buying and Selling.
Family Justice Services are a group of programs and services offered by Alberta Justice in collaboration with the courts of Alberta. Family Justice Services works directly with individuals and also with the judges of the Alberta Provincial Court and Court of Queen’s Bench to help people get appropriate solutions for their family law issues.
From Employment and Social Development Canada, the Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is a community-based program that relies on communities to determine their own needs and to develop appropriate projects. It encourages cooperation between governments, agencies, and community-based organizations to find local solutions for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The HPS recognizes that stable housing is a basic requirement for improving health, parenting, education, and employment.
The CMRRA is a non-profit music licensing agency, which represents the vast majority of music copyright owners (usually called music publishers) doing business in Canada. On their behalf, CMRRA issues licenses to users of the reproduction right in copyrighted music.
This booklet from Family Law Education for Women explains alternative dispute resolution and when to use it in dealing with family law issues. (PDF – 8 pages)
Every year, Canadians lose millions of dollars to the activities of scammers who bombard us with online, mail, door-to-door and telephone scams. The Little Black Book of Scams is a reference guide with information Canadians can use to personally protect themselves. It offers information on how a variety of common scams work and how to recognize them, as well as practical tips on how consumers and businesses can protect themselves.
This page will connect you to public legal information materials produced by Legal Aid BC. Most publications are available as PDFs or print copies may be ordered. Some are available in other languages.
HomeFront is a non-profit organization that collaborates with the justice system, police and community partners to reduce domestic violence in Calgary and the surrounding area. Clients are referred through the Calgary Police Service and are supported with case management, court support and connection to appropriate resources.
Provides legal information on a variety of topics in plain language to the people of British Columbia. Publications can be accessed in a variety of formats, including videos, online wikibooks, and downloadable epubs and PDFs. Print copies may be ordered. Many are available in other languages.
The Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta produces and distributes booklets and pamphlets that explain the law in plain language. Topics areas include: Landlord and tenant; Real estate; Wills and estates; Registered charities; Elder abuse; and Law-related education materials for schools. Publications are available to download as PDFs or print copies may be ordered.
LawNow is a bi-monthly digital public legal education magazine which has been published by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta for almost 40 years. Its articles and columns are written in plain language take a practical look at how the law relates to the every day lives of Canadians.In each issue, LawNow’s landlord and tenant law column takes a look at a specific topic in this area of law and explains it clearly and concisely.
LawNow is a bi-monthly digital public legal education magazine which has been published by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta for almost 40 years. Its articles and columns are written in plain language and take a practical look at how the law relates to the every day lives of Canadians. In each issue, LawNow’s Online Law column takes a look at the resources available on the internet for a specific legal topic.
LawNow is a bi-monthly digital public legal education magazine which has been published by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta for almost 40 years. Its articles and columns are written in plain language and take a practical look at how the law relates to the every day lives of Canadians.In each issue, LawNow’s criminal law column takes a look at a specific topic in this area of law and explains it clearly and concisely.
LawNow is a bi-monthly digital public legal education magazine which has been published by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta for almost 40 years. Its articles and columns are written in plain language and take a practical look at how the law relates to the every day lives of Canadians.In each issue, LawNow’s family law column takes a look at a specific topic in this area of law and explains it clearly and concisely.
These FAQs are provided by the Canadian Legal FAQs, a website of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. They provide answers to questions about real estate law in Alberta including aspects of purchasing a home and land titles.
These “How old do I have to be?” FAQs are provided by the Canadian Legal FAQs, a website of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. They provide answers for youth about age-related issues under various topics: family, criminal, medical and health related, legal and financial, activities (such as driving), school and work.
The Residential Tenancy Act is provided by the King’s Printer. (PDF – 55 pages)
This online resource is from the Government of Alberta and includes information about: Renting; Buying; Building/Buying a New Home; Condominiums, Cooperatives and Mobile Homes; Real Estate Agents, Home Inspectors and Appraisers; Legal Resources; Home Insurance; Property Taxes; Utilities; Renovations and Repairs; Housing Supports – Aboriginal Peoples; Housing Supports – Immigrants and Non-Residents; Housing Supports – Low Income; Housing Supports – Persons with Disabilities; Housing Supports – Rural Residents; Housing Supports – Seniors; Housing Supports – Students; and Additional Resources.
This handbook explains the rights and responsibilities of all tenants, landlords, and agents involved in renting residential premises in Alberta under the Residential Tenancies Act and related regulations. It explains the minimum legislated requirements set out in the Act and provides landlords and tenants with options to deal with matters not established as minimum requirements.
The following topics are covered in the handbook: residential tenancy agreements; inspection reports; security deposits; other fees and charges; landlord’s distraint; rent increases; landlord’s right of entry; security; termination of tenancy; determination of normal wear and tear during residency; and abandoned goods.
The Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta produces and distributes booklets and pamphlets that explain the law in plain language. Topics areas include but are not limited to: Landlord and tenant issues, renting with a pet, roommates, shared accommodation, foreclosure, real estate; and law-related education materials for schools. Publications are available as PDFs or free print copies may be ordered.
The Alberta Residential Landlord Association brings together owners, operators and managers of residential rental properties. Working together, they promote professionalism, education and equity in all aspects of the Residential Rental Business for the benefit of industry members and tenants.
The Calgary Residential Rental Association provides a voice for the residential rental industry, and provides professional services and learning opportunities for members, including educational programs and resources.
In a rental agreement, both landlords and tenants have certain rights and obligations. In deciding whether a court application is appropriate, it is important to gain a good understanding of your obligations as well as the remedies available to you.
The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) provides decision-making mechanisms for individuals who are unable to make personal, non-financial decisions for themselves. The OPG does this through the Personal Directives Act, the Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act and the Mental Health Act. The OPG also administers the Personal Directives Registry and the Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Registry.
This booklet produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta is for people who either: find themselves, or a loved one, in a state of diminished mental capacity and are interested in exploring joint decision-making options; or have a loved one who has lost capacity and must set up Guardianship and Trusteeship for that person. This 32 page PDF is available for download.
This online resource from Alberta Human Services provides information about the Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act (AGTA) which came into force on October 30, 2009. It includes information about the various decision-making options under the Act, and has sections specifically for private guardians, service providers and legal professionals. There is also a roster of designated capacity assessors.
This online resource is from the Canadian Legal FAQs, a website of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. These FAQs include information about: Making a Will – Being an Executor; Making a Power of Attorney – Being an Attorney; and Making a Personal Directive – Being an Agent.
This booklet produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta is for people who are wondering if they should write a Will. It explains what is involved in making a Will. The purpose of writing a Will is to pass on your belongings to your loved ones according to your wishes and with as few problems as possible. If you die without a Will, it’s often more costly, complicated, and time-consuming to settle your estate, and this booklet describes some common examples. This 24 page PDF is available for free download.
This booklet produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta explains what is involved in being a Personal Representative. It is divided into two sections: a question and answer section that looks at issues to consider before you accept the job as well as common questions and examples; and a checklist section that helps guide you when the testator—the person who made the Will—dies. This booklet gives general information only, not legal advice. It is not a do-it-yourself guide. This 20 page PDF is available for free download.
This booklet produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta is for people who are wondering if they should write a Power of Attorney. It is about putting your affairs in order and planning for the future. It explains what is involved in making a Power of Attorney and how a Power of Attorney can help you to look after your current and future financial affairs. It describes some common examples. This 16 page PDF is available for free download.
This online resource from the Office of the Public Trustee (Alberta) provides information about enduring powers of attorney. Sections include: Why you need an Enduring Power of Attorney; Choosing an attorney; Keep your Power of Attorney current; Cancelling an Enduring Power of Attorney; When a donor dies; Other things to consider.
This booklet produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta is for people who have been asked to be an Attorney under someone’s Enduring Power of Attorney. It explains what is involved in being an Attorney. There are two sections: a question and answer section touching on issues to consider beforeyou accept the job as well as common questions and examples; and a checklist section that helps guide you when the donor—the person who gave you Power of Attorney—loses capacity. This booklet gives general information only, not legal advice. It is not a do-it-yourself guide.
This online resource from Service Alberta provides information about Personal Directives. Sections include: Introduction; A Time When You Cannot Make Decisions; Writing Your Personal Directive; Choosing Someone to Make Decisions on Your Behalf – Your “Agent”; Areas of Decision Making Authority; Information Card; Frequently Asked Questions; Definitions; and Where Can I Get More Help? (PDF – 24 pages)
This booklet produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta is for people who are wondering if they should write a Personal Directive. It is about putting your affairs in order and planning for the future. It explains what is involved in making a Personal Directive and how a Personal Directive can help you to look after your future personal (non-financial) needs. It describes some common examples. This 16 page PDF is available for free download.
This booklet produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta is for people who have been asked to be an Agent under someone’s Personal Directive. It explains what is involved in being an Agent. There are two sections: a question and answer section that covers issues to consider before you accept the job as well as common questions and examples; and a checklist section that helps guide you when the Personal Directive comes into effect. This booklet gives general information only, not legal advice. It is not a do-it-yourself guide.
Facts about internet privacy and the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada. Suggests methods of increasing your privacy for internet use, newsgroups and email.
Alberta Solicitor General and Public Security is responsible for supporting and promoting crime prevention and for advancing restorative justice initiatives. This website provides fact sheets and information for the public about various issues like Rural Crime Prevention, Personal Safety, and Business Security Fraud Prevention.
This article from the law firm Pringle Chivers Sparks uses a question and answer format to explain what information you must give to the police and things to consider before speaking with the police about criminal matters.
This online resource from Alberta Solicitor General and Public Security describes the structure of police services in Alberta.
This publication produced by Community Legal Education Ontario uses a question and answer format to describe citizen’s rights when interacting with the police. The information is about federal law; references to community agencies are for Ontario. (PDF – 18 pages)
The Alberta Crown Prosecution Service prosecutes offences under the Criminal Code of Canada, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and provincial statutes in all courts in Alberta and is responsible for criminal appeals to the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada. They do not handle adult drug offences. Their site provides charts of the criminal justice process for adults and for youth and answers common questions about criminal prosecutions.
This online version of a book produced by the John Howard Society of Alberta outlines the pardon application process. It also answers 20 frequently asked questions about pardons.
This guide is produced by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta and is intended to help you find out information about consumer frauds and scams that could affect you. If you have already been impacted by one of these schemes or think you might have been, contact information for agencies that can help you has also been included.
This comprehensive resource from the RCMP describes sixteen Internet scams, twelve in-person scams, and three telephone scams. It also includes illustrative scenarios along with a glossary and a list of useful links.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) is the central agency in Canada that collects information and criminal intelligence on mass marketing fraud (telemarketing), advance fee fraud letters, internet fraud and identity theft complaints. Their website provides descriptions of many types of scams. Anti-fraud specialists in their Call Centre provide advice on the steps that victims should take to recover lost funds and to protect themselves in the future. The CFAC (formerly PhoneBusters) is jointly managed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police, and the Competition Bureau of Canada.
These online videos are provided by the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association and cover a range of topics such as gangs, drugs and a number of different types of fraud.
This tip-sheet is from the Government of Alberta and describes the legal action a creditor may take if you do not pay your debts. (PDF – 8 pages)
This colourful infographic from the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta provides information about payday loans and Alberta law. The image file is available for free download or print copies can be ordered at no charge.
Money Mentors (formerly know as Credit Counseling Services of Alberta) is an Alberta-based public agency that is the exclusive provider of the OrderlyPayment of Debts program in Alberta as specified under the Federal Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. They offer free credit counselling, money coaching, and financial education tto the community and K-12 students in Alberta. They are an accredited member of Credit Counselling Canada.
This colourful infographic from the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta provides information about understanding debt, collection agencies, and paying back your debt. The image file is available for free download or print copies can be ordered at no charge.
This online fact sheet from Canada Mortgage and Housing explains some options you may have when unforeseen financial circumstances impact your ability to make regular mortgage payments.
This online resource is from the Student Legal Services of Edmonton. Topics include: Credit and Personal Reporting; Dealing with Bill Collecting Agencies; What can happen if you do not pay your debts; and How can Student Legal Services help with debt issues?. This resource is also available to download as a PDF.
For debtors (those who owe money) and creditors (those who are owed money), OSB, a special operating agency associated with Industry Canada, makes the bankruptcy and insolvency process easier to understand by providing information.
This booklet from the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta gives a general overview of what foreclosure is, what can happen during a foreclosure, and how foreclosure may affect both property owners and renters living in a property. This 8 page PDF is available for free download.
If a rental property is foreclosed upon, the rights of the tenant and the rights of the landlord will be affected. This booklet from the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta answers frequently asked questions about the foreclosure process with a focus on the implications for tenants. This 8 page PDF is available for free download.
This colourful infographic from the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta provides information about cell phone contracts and the legal rights and responsibilities associated with them. The image file is available for free download or print copies can be ordered at no charge.
If you are victim of identity theft or identity fraud, you should immediately take some basic steps to prevent further crimes from happening and to restore your credit and good name. Navigating through the system as a victim can be time-consuming and confusing. This guide should help start you off in the right direction.
The Consumers’ Association of Canada (CAC), founded in 1947, is an independent, not-for-profit, volunteer-based, charitable organization. CAC’s mandate is to inform and educate consumers on marketplace issues, to advocate for consumers with government and industry, and work with government and industry to solve marketplace problems. CAC focuses its work in the areas of food, health, trade, standards, financial services, communications industries and other marketplace issues as they emerge.
This Alberta government department investigates consumer complaints, enforces consumer protection legislation, licenses and registers regulated businesses and charitable organizations and informs consumers and businesses of their rights and responsibilities.
The Handbook was created and is updated by the Consumer Measures Committee, a joint committee of federal, provincial and territorial governments. The objective of the Handbook is to help Canadian consumers become better-informed and more confident.
This website from the Canadian Centre for Child Protection has been created to provide you with a one-stop-shop on all things related to Internet safety. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection is committed to helping parents, teachers, and anyone else who would like to better understand the good, bad, and ugly about the web.
Formerly known as Internet 101, the RCMP has provided these resources about safety on the internet, including information regarding: Internet Safety for Youth; Child Exploitation; Online Scams and Fraud; Social Networking; Cyberbullying; and Internet Security.
An interactive website developed by Alberta Children’s Service to provide information to both parents and children about internet safety and security. It features information and links on a variety of topics, such as online games, chat, web-cams and instant messaging. It also offers parents tips on how to protect their children while using the Internet.
This page points to resources about copyright and patents across the WIPO website, which may be of particular interest to students ranging from upper elementary to university. Resources for younger students include a set of comic books.
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO), a Special Operating Agency (SOA) associated with Industry Canada, is responsible for the administration and processing of the greater part of intellectual property in Canada. Topics covered include: Patents, Trade-marks, Copyright, Industrial designs, and Integrated circuit topographies.
This guide provides a general road map of some of the legal issues specific to podcasting with an emphasis on identifying how those issues may apply in the Canadian legal environment. This guide covers only Canadian-based legal questions. (PDF – 31 pages, 2007)
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office has provided these Frequently Asked Questions about Copyright for your use.
This booklet gives teachers user-friendly information on copyright law, combining items from the Canadian Copyright Act and its regulations, contractual and tariff arrangements with copyright collectives, and court decisions. Much of the information would also be of interest to general audiences. [2005, pdf – 25 pages]
The CRTC is an independent public authority in charge of regulating and supervising Canadian broadcasting and telecommunications.
This online resource is from the Student Legal Services of Edmonton. Includes information about what Marriage is and property within a Marriage. This resource is also available to download as a PDF.
This online resource is provided by Service Alberta. It contains information about: Before You Get Married; Contacting a Marriage Officiant; Marriage Ceremony Requirements; Civil Ceremonies; Religious Ceremonies; as well as information about: Marriage Documents; Married Last Name; Marriage Commissioner Listing; Marriage Licenses; Marriage Officiants; Ordering Marriage Certificates and Documents; Permanent Marriage Commissioner Appointments; Registration of Marriages; Religious Organizations and Clergy Registration; Temporary Marriage Commissioner Appointments; and a link to the Vital Statistics Office.
These links are provided by the Government of Alberta and are intended for those who are considering or are going through divorce. There are links related to: Mediation; Finding a Lawyer; Finding Your Own Legal Information; Filing for Divorce; Ordering a Divorce Certificate; Changing Your Name; Changing Your Address; Child Support; Government Financial Assistance Programs; Custody and Access; Counselling and Assistance; and Family Violence Help and Prevention Resources.
You may obtain the kit which contains the forms required, plus information on how to get the process started from most stationary stores and also the Queen’s Printer Bookstore located in Edmonton and Calgary. Note: The item must be ordered; it cannot be downloaded.
This resource is from the Student Legal Services and includes information about; Your Legal Name; Changing Your Own Name (including getting married or Adult Interdependent Relationship); Naming Your Child; and Changing Your Child’s Name and Referral Numbers (related to changing your name). This resource is also available to downloaded as a PDF.
Provides information on the various kinds of custody arrangements and provides links to Justice Canada publications which may be of use to parents going through separation or divorce.
This online resource from Alberta Human Services relates to situations when an adult would like to become a guardian of a child to support or replace the parent. It explains private guardianship and the process of applying for a private guardianship order.
This booklet is for grandparents who want to know about their rights and options with respect to their grandchildren. For grandparents who are currently being, or are worried that they will be, denied access to their children, this booklet explains what is involved in obtaining access with your grandchildren through a “contact order”. For grandparents who are concerned about the safety and well-being of their grandchildren, this booklet outlines the various options that would enable those grandparents to care for those grandchildren.
The Alberta Maintenance Enforcement Program (MEP) is authorized by the Alberta Maintenance Enforcement Act to ensure that individuals meet their obligations to pay spousal and child support under the terms of their court orders and certain agreements. In cases of default (non-payment) by the debtor, MEP has the legislative authority to take steps to enforce the support owed. These enforcement tools include registrations at Land Titles and the Personal Property Registry, wage, non-wage and federal support deduction notices, federal licence (passport) denials, motor vehicle restrictions and driver’s licence suspensions. MEP also has access to a variety of databases to assist in locating a debtor or a debtor’s assets or income.
Child Support Services is a free service through Alberta Works to help parents with limited incomes get child support agreements or court orders. Single parents and parents of blended families in the following programs are automatically eligible for help through Child Support Services: Income Support, Alberta Adult Health Benefit and Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH). From the left-side menu bar, users can access relevant publications and legislation.
The guiding principle of Canada’s child support law is that children should continue to benefit from the financial means of both parents just as they would if the parents were still together. Therefore, if you are divorced or separated from the other parent, you are both responsible for supporting your children financially. This resource provides an explanation about child support orders and agreements.
Separating from a spouse or partner can be stressful and overwhelming. This page provides practical and helpful tips to help you prepare for legal issues that may come up.
For adult interdependent partners and unmarried couples, their relationship ends after they separate. For married couples, their marriage legally ends when the court grants a divorce.
When a married couple separates or divorces, the spouse with the higher income sometimes pays money to the spouse with the lower income to balance the financial impact of the divorce so that the outcome is fair. This money is called “spousal support”. This resource provides basic explanations about spousal support agreements.
The act outlining the rights and responsibilities of people living in “common law” relationships (not marriages) or who have signed an interdependent relationship agreement.
The Adoption Council of Canada (ACC) is a national non-profit organization and registered charity and is the umbrella organization for adoption in Canada. By providing a library and clearinghouse on adoption issues, publications and information about adoption news and resources as well as referrals to adoption inquiries, the ACC raises public awareness of adoption, promotes the placement of waiting children, stresses the importance of post-adoption services, and supports search, reunion, and unqualified access to identifying information for both adopted adults and their birth parents.
This online resource from the Government of Alberta provides information about the Alberta government adoption process and applications as well as private adoption options. Includes links to other adoption resources and a link to profiles of children available for adoption.
This online publication from Department of Justice Canada describes the nature of stalking and ways of dealing with it. It can also be downloaded as a PDF and is available in four different languages (French, Mandarin, Punjabi and Spanish) by using the “Back to Publications” link and scrolling down the page (PDF – 20 pgs. 2003)
Relationship violence can strike anyone, but teenagers are particularly vulnerable to misconceptions about what physical and emotional violence are, and what they mean. If it hurts, dominates or controls, it’s not romance! This page from the Red Cross provides links to publications about relationship violence, what is is, what parents can do, and information about what is healthy and unhealthy in relationships.
This online resource is provided by Willownet, a website of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. This resource includes information about restraining orders in emergency and non-emergency situations, as well as the process of getting a restraining order, and the steps to take after applying for a restraining order.
gThis section of the Government of Alberta: Family Violence website is dedicated to the prevention of family violence and bullying. The page provides activities and resources to help prevent family violence and domestic violence, and support healthy relationships.
This online resource is from the Student Legal Services of Edmonton. Includes information about: What is Assault?, Intent, Consent, Self-Defence, Legal Options Available to the Victim, and Self-Referral Numbers. This resource is also available for download as a PDF (6 pgs)..
The Calgary Domestic Violence Collective’s purpose is threefold: to develop capacity to address domestic violence for professionals and allied professionals; to inform and influence decision makers around a framework for ending domestic violence; to ensure a collaborative and coordinated community response to domestic violence in Calgary and Area. Their website includes research reports on a variety of aspects of domestic violence. (Former name: Alliance to End Violence)
The purpose of this site is to provide plain language information about the law to victims of violence in intimate relationships and their supporters. Willownet provides legal information that may help you if you are experiencing violence in a relationship. The site has information that is helpful on: facts about abuse, effects of relationship violence, what the law says about abuse, leaving the relationship safely (safety plan), taking your kids with you, pets, Protective Orders (EPOs, KBPOs) and going to court. The site also provides links to other family violence resources.w
The mission of the Centre is to work with others to empower people to move from poverty to prosperity. They enable people to meet their own basic daily needs, participate in community, have sustainable livelihoods, feel hope for the future and make plans for a prosperous life. The Centre offers a variety of programs which include victims services and advocacy.
This online version of a booklet from the Department of Justice Canada can help children between the ages of nine and twelve to learn about family law, and can also help them realize it’s normal for them to have an emotional response to their parents’ separation. It is also available to download as a PDF.
Project Respect is a prevention program for youth ages 14 to 19 , based in Victoria BC, that aims to stop sexual violence, particularly acquaintance assault. “Date Rape” as it is commonly referred to, is a serious risk for youth. Project Respect challenges the attitudes and behaviours that lead to sexual violence: stereotypes, labels, miscommunication, drugs and alcohol, media pressure and power imbalance.
The focus of this web site from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada is to help kids understand how technology affects their privacy, and what they can do to build secure online profiles while keeping their information safe. Includes teacher resources.
The Advance Care Planning Canada initiative, led by the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA), focuses on advancing the Pan-Canadian Framework for Advance Care Planning.
The ACP initiative works in collaboration with various sectors and professional groups to accomplish our goals.
SAGE is a full service not-for-profit seniors’ organization whose mandate is to build and maintain a broad range of programs and services that enhance the quality of life for seniors and their families in the greater Edmonton area. With over 37 years of experience, SAGE is regarded as a major provider of innovative seniors’ services in the capital region.
Information for individuals and pension plan administrators from the Alberta Superintendent of Pensions and the Pension Policy Branch.
These two online tutorials were created by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. The first covers making a report to the police; what will they do; and what you may have to do. The second explains what else may happen for the accused.
These FAQs are provided by Canadian Legal FAQs, a website of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. The questions are divided into three sections: What is Elder Abuse?; What can I do if I, or someone I care about, is being abused?; and How do I plan for the future and avoid abuse?
CSRS Outreach Workers assist seniors with pensions and benefits, housing and home care support, or personal/family crisis. Other programs include Escorted Transportation, Assited Shopping and Friendly Visiting.
Published by Canadian Centre for Elder Law, this comprehensive resource includes snapshots of the law in each of the thirteen provinces and territories, a comparative table that allows for quick reference, a set of guiding principles for working with vulnerable adults, and sections that discuss mandatory report ing of abuse and neglect, rules around confidentiality of personal and health information, and the relationship between mental capacity and elder abuse. The guide also contains a lengthy list of resource agencies. This PDF (71 pages, 2010) is available for free download.
This website of the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA) focuses on how Canadian law protects and affects older adults. Topic areas covered include elder abuse, planning for the future, personal and family relationships, and various other issues (e.g. consumer, travel).
This online resource is from the Student Legal Services of Edmonton. This information is for non-married parents, Adult Interdependent Partners and married parents not seeking a divorce. Topics include: Who Is A Parent?; Who Is A Guardian?; Parenting Orders; Parenting Time; The “Best Interests” Of The Child; Contact Orders; Court Orders; Frequently Asked Questions. This resource is also available for download as a PDF.
This online resource is from the Student Legal Services of Edmonton. Includes information about: What is the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act?; General Information; Appeals; Frequently Asked Questions. This resource is also available for download as a PDF.
Be Web Aware is a national, bilingual public education program on Internet safety. The initiative was developed and supported by Media Awareness Network (MNet), Bell and Microsoft Canada. The web-based resources are aimed at empowering parents with information so they can help their children make safe and wise online decisions. It’s all part of helping young Canadians benefit from the opportunities of the Internet while minimizing the potential risks.
This publication explains the provisions of the Act as they apply to pregnancy, breastfeeding, maternity and parental leave, adoption, and childcare obligations. It also provides resources for finding more information about maternity leave and parental leave, which includes leave for adoptive parents.
This online resource from the Student Legal Services of Edmonton includes information about common law relationships and the Adult Interdependent Relationships Act, property rights, other benefits and statutes (Alberta) and Federal Acts. This resource is also available to download as a PDF.
The Adult Interdependent Relationships Act was passed during the fall 2002 sitting of the provincial Legislature and became law on June 1, 2003. This act amended several Alberta laws for people in unmarried relationships involving economic and emotional interdependency. These laws set out the financial and property benefits and responsibilities attached to these relationships. The act covers a range of personal relationships that fall outside of marriage, including committed platonic relationships where two people agree to share emotional and economic responsibilities.
This site of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) is provided by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. The law with regard to common law relationships in Alberta was changed in June 2003 with the introduction of the concept of ‘adult interdependent relationships’. This resource answers questions about how such a relationship is defined and the nature of adult interdependent partner agreements.
Each year, UNICEF’s flagship publication, The State of the World’s Children, closely examines a key issue affecting children. The report includes supporting data and statistics and is available in French and Spanish language versions.
This service of the Kerby Centre for the 55 Plus in Calgary focuses on providing answers and solving problems. Information is available on topics such as pensions, legal issues, government services, grants, home help, consumer affairs, transportation, congratulatory messages, and much more.
This online tutorial was created by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. There are several different kinds of protective orders. Some are available under federal law (the Criminal Code of Canada); some are available under provincial laws. If you have been abused and want the abuser to stay away from you, you can apply for protective court orders. These court orders tell the abuser to stay away. If the abuser then does not stay away, he or she can be punished.
This section of the Government of Alberta: Children and Families website offers services, supports and resources to protect children and youth from harmful situations.
The Calgary John Howard Society’s vision is to promote positive change through humane, just, and informed responses to crime and its effects. The organization provides programs for both adults and youth involved in the criminal justice system, or who are at risk for becoming involved in the criminal justice system.
Calgary’s 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness was created by the Calgary Committee to End Homelessness, a community-based, multi-stakeholder, leadership group who issued the Plan and selected the Foundation to implement the Plan. On this website, find out about the progress of the 10 Year Plan, the research of the foundation, and information on homelessness and affordable housing in Calgary.
In February 2002, the Department of Justice Canada contracted with the Muriel McKing Fergusson Centre for Family Violence Research to develop an inventory of strategies and methods used in sharing family violence law information with people living in rural areas. The inventory categorizes the various methods and makes recommendations regarding most promising practices. Ultimately this inventory is intended to serve as a blueprint for agencies that deliver family violence information in rural areas. This PDF (59 pages, 2002) is available for free download.
The “Just Between You and Me” project was designed to provide Public Legal Education and Information (PLEI) peer support to women who had experienced family violence and assess its validity as a model for PLEI delivery. The goal of the project was that the peers would then share this information within their own networks of family, co-workers and communities, using resources already developed and existing in their areas. This PDF (56 pages, 2004) is available for free download.
The John Howard Society is a network of offices across Canada and the Northwest Territories committed to “effective, just and humane responses to the causes and consequences of crime.” They work with people who have come into conflict with the law, advocate for changes in the criminal justice process, engage in public education on matters relating to criminal law and promote crime prevention through community and social development activities. The website provides access to information about the services in each province.
The John Howard Society of Alberta is a non-profit agency concerned with the problem of crime and its prevention. The organization takes its name and spirit from the 18th century humanitarian John Howard, whose name has become a symbol of humane consideration for prisoners. It was incorporated in 1949, and today the organization consists of six separately incorporated districts along with the Provincial Office. The website provides information about the services available in each of these districts.
The mission of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Edmonton is to foster the dignity and worth of women who come into conflict with the law, and help them live as valued members of their communities. They are a not-for-profit organization that has existed in Edmonton since 1977. The society offers a variety of programs for women and girls including a legal clinic. The Legal Clinic Program assists federally sentenced women at Edmonton Institute for Women by addressing their legal needs.
Family Mediation Services offers free information and assistance with: bringing applications in Provincial (Family) Court concerning custody, access and private guardianship of children; mediation services to assist families in resolving parenting issues, e.g. custody, access, private guardianship and child support; courses to improve parenting skills and communication between parents who are living apart; and other court-directed services intended to aid in resolving parenting disputes.
This website is produced by the Centre for Equality Rights in Accommodation (CERA), an Ontario-based non profit human rights organization that has spent the past 20 years challenging the systemic barriers and discrimination that contribute to homelessness and housing insecurity. The goal of this website is to provide housing workers and advocates across Canada with information and tools to enable them to overcome – using a human rights framework – the barriers that keep people from accessing and retaining adequate housing.
The UCA represents Alberta small consumers by acting as the voice of consumers during regulatory proceedings to ensure the lowest regulated rates consistent with reasonable service, and by providing consumers with the information they need to make informed choices about how to purchase electricity and natural gas, based on their individual circumstances. When consumers have exhausted known avenues of issue resolution, the UCA will investigate and mediate concerns with utility companies.
This online resource from Alberta Solicitor General and Public Security explains the process for making a complaint about police services and the conduct of police officers in the various types of police services operating in Alberta.
The National Do Not Call List (DNCL) gives consumers a choice about whether to receive telemarketing calls. If you are a consumer you can choose to reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive by registering your residential, wireless, fax or VoIP telephone number on the National DNCL. You can also file a complaint about telemarketing calls. Call toll-free 1-866-580-DNCL (1-866-580-3625)
The Farmers Advocate Office works to ensure rural Albertans have consumer protection, rural opportunities and fair process. We administer the Farm Implement Act that provides consumer protection through warranty, parts availability and licensing provisions, including inspection to assist in FIB proceedings. Rural opportunity is realized through assisting landowners with managing their land asset, mitigating business risk and maximizing future economic opportunity as it relates to interaction with the energy industry.
The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA) is an independent office of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, mandated to work with vulnerable young people.
This includes young people receiving or attempting to access services under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act and the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act; or who are involved with the youth justice system.
Service Alberta investigates complaints from Albertans about consumer transactions, including landlord and tenant issues. The first step in the complaint process is to talk with an Information Officer at 780-427-4088 in Edmonton and toll free at 1-877-427-4088 throughout the rest of the province.
This service is offered by the Government of Alberta, Family Violence Prevention Unit. Trained staff can help get you to safety and give you information on supports and financial aid.
If you think someone you know is experiencing family violence, reach out by calling or texting the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818, toll-free 24/7, or using the confidential online chat. Phone services are available in more than 170 languages.
The Alberta Seniors and Community Supports department provides information about financial, health-related, and protective services for seniors. This webpage lists the contact information for regional offices. Or call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre Toll-free in Alberta: 1-877-644-9992, Monday to Friday 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
This online publication is provided by the Government of Alberta and is divided into sections including: You’ve been charged… now what?; Duty Counsel; If you don’t have a lawyer; How do you get a lawyer?; Legal Aid; Other Services; Where will the trial be?; Pleading guilty; Getting ready for trial when you have pled not guilty; What happens in court?; and Sentencing.
Going to court? Here are some tips and information on understanding your foreclosure matter. (Video) Produced in coordination with PBLA and Alberta Courts.
This online tutorial created by the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta provides information about the structure of a trial after making a criminal complaint.
The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) offers landlords and tenants an alternative means of resolving serious disputes outside of court. A tenant or a landlord who has concerns related to an eviction, unpaid rent/utilities, security deposit, damages, repairs or other common disagreements can use the service.
The Community Legal Education Ontario Centre (CLEO) for Research & Innovation conducts research and initiates projects to help build the capacity of the community sector to reach marginalized communities with effective legal information. The Centre is a pilot project established in 2010 with funding from the Law Foundation of Ontario.
The Homeless Hub is a web-based research library and information center where community services providers, researchers, government representatives, and the general public can access and share research, stories, and best practices associated with alleviating homelessness and housing instability.
A glossary of terms that may be encountered when dealing in real estate.
Now that the highly anticipated new copyright legislation has been introduced, more and more librarians are hearing from concerned library users that copyright laws must reflect the public interest. As the voice of the community of library users and professionals, CLA is committed to getting the crucial message to government that copyright issues do indeed strike a chord with Canadians.
The Latin American Community Council and MOSAIC, in partnership, have implemented this online multilingual legal resource to provide comprehensive and critical legal information in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Korean, Persian, Punjabi, Spanish and Vietnamese to Canadian newcomers and community workers in British Columbia.
Edmonton John Howard Society is a not-for-profit, community-based crime prevention agency. They provide assistance to people in conflict with the law, their families, those who have the potential to be in conflict with the law, and victims of crime. Their work to eradicate the root causes of crime helps build safety and harmony in communities. The Edmonton John Howard Society works to promote a better understanding of the Criminal Justice System and the consequences of breaking the law.
The BearPaw Legal Education & Resource Centre (BearPaw Education) is a program offered by Native Counselling Services of Alberta and funded by the Alberta Law Foundation aimed at helping Aboriginal people navigate the legal system and gain awareness of their legal rights. The BearPaw Education’s mandate is to promote awareness of the legal rights and obligations of Aboriginal people living in Alberta and to enhance Aboriginal peoples’ connection and access to justice.
Calgary Legal Guidance provides free legal advice for individuals with low income. If you need legal information and advice on: Family issues; Criminal issues; Civil issues; Restraining Orders; Emergency Protection Orders etc; Social Benefit issues; and; an evening course on Do Your Own Divorce.
The Legal Resource Centre of Alberta Ltd. operates as the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta. Its mission is to enhance the accessibility and quality of justice realized in Canada. It addresses its mission by creating learning opportunities and building learning communities that facilitate the creation, management, exchange, and integration of knowledge among people within the justice system and between them and the general public. Delivery of legal information to the public is primarily through publications and topic-specific websites; some are specifically for Alberta, others have a national focus.
This handbook from Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre provides information on a range of legal subjects of interest to seniors (people who are 65 years of age and older). It is written in “plain English” and is intended as a basic resource for seniors, their friends, relatives and advocates. In a question-answer format, the handbook provides an overview of issues facing seniors, including abuse, mental health, guardianship and trusteeship, personal directives, powers of attorney and consumer protection. Includes a glossary and list of senior-serving agencies in Alberta. (PDF – 150 pages, 2010)
The Collaborative Family Law Process is about cooperation, not confrontation where clients sign a contract agreeing not to go to court. It is mediation and problem solving with collaborative lawyers where clients try to understand each other. Each client is responsible for information gathering and solutions. This website features general information about collaborative law (definitions, process, resources) and a list of collaborative law professionals in Alberta.
The Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic (CIPPIC) was established at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law in the fall of 2003. Through student-centered research and advocacy, the clinic represents consumer and other public interests in such areas as intellectual property, consumer protection in e-commerce, domain name governance, personal information protection and privacy.
The Portage College Public Legal Education Program is a public service initiative offered in partnership with the Alberta Law Foundation. The program offers learning opportunities to individuals, families, and communities throughout North Eastern Alberta through the provision of information, resources, and education on a variety of legal topics. All requests for information are confidential. The program also offers legal education presentations and seminars throughout North Eastern Alberta in communities, agencies, and schools. For program updates and workshops see: https://mailchi.mp/db001ef43930/portage-college-public-legal-education-newsletter-2543565
Registry transactions include the issuing and renewing of drivers’ licences, registrations of birth, marriage and death, land title searches and transfers, and registrations of corporations, vehicles, and liens. The majority of these services are delivered on behalf of the Government of Alberta by registry agents located in communities throughout the province. This section of the Service Alberta website provides information on registries in the following categories: Charitable organizations; Corporate registry; Drivers/vehicles; Land titles; Personal property registry; Registry agents (find an agent) and Vital statistics. Many related forms can be downloaded and some services are now available online.
