November 25, 2009

Hot off the press from LSS

The Poverty Law Primer is a short practical introduction to basic poverty law or social justice issues such as welfare, employment insurance, debt, housing, bankruptcy, and foreclosure. Although the primer was designed for lawyers who do not normally practice poverty law, it will also be useful to advocates who need to understand the law so they can guide their clients to appropriate services and resources that can help to resolve their legal problems.

Each of the six chapters provides information on a specific issue, including relevant governing statutes, regulations, and rules; common client problems; checklists; issues applying to First Nations clients; frequently asked questions, resources; and limitation and statutory notice periods.

The primer explains the law in general and is not intended to provide legal advice on a particular problem. Because each person's case is different, your client may need to seek legal advice.

We have a small supply of print copies available, but when they run out, the online version will be the only one available. To order a print copy, please send us an e-mail.

Living Together or Living Apart (in French): Our most popular family law booklet is now available online in French. Vivre ensemble ou séparément : Union de fait, mariage, séparation et divorce explains the basics of family law in BC, including information about living common-law or being married, the process for separation and divorce, how to work out custody, support, and access issues if there are children involved, and how to sort out money matters.

This booklet also describes legal options and where to get help. You can find it on both the LSS and Family Law websites.

Your Guide to the Refugee Claim Process (in simplified Chinese): In the May issue of ELAN, we announced that this publication would soon be available in simplified Chinese. You can now get this version online or in print. This booklet explains the process of seeking refugee protection in Canada and where to get legal and other help. There is also a companion piece: a translation of the Immigration and Refugee Board’s Personal Information Form (PIF). This translated form is designed to help refugee claimants fill out their official English PIF document.