Glossary
Aboriginal
Includes status Indians, non-status Indians, First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and anyone who identifies (thinks of themselves) as Aboriginal (also Indigenous peoples of Canada).
access
Under the Divorce Act, the time children spend with the parent they don't usually live with. Other people (including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other relatives) can also apply for access to a child. Under the BC Family Law Act, this is called contact with a child.
access agreement
Describes when and where you can visit your child if a social worker removed your child from your home.
address for service
The address that a party to a legal action puts on their court documents to personally receive court documents from the other party. Can also include a fax number and/or an email address.
adjourn
To postpone (delay) a hearing or trial.
adjourned
To postpone (delay) a hearing or trial.
adjourning
To postpone (delay) a hearing or trial.
adjournment
To postpone (delay) a hearing or trial.
adjourns
To postpone (delay) a hearing or trial.
advice
Involves applying the law to a particular situation. It also involves providing a legal opinion and specific advice about the best course of action.
advocacy
An advocate is a community worker who's trained to help people. Legal advocacy is when an advocate helps you deal with the legal system.
advocate
An advocate is a community worker who's trained to help people. Legal advocacy is when an advocate helps you deal with the legal system.
advocates
An advocate is a community worker who's trained to help people. Legal advocacy is when an advocate helps you deal with the legal system.
affidavit
A document that contains facts that you swear under oath or affirm to be true. A lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits must witness your signature and sign your affidavit.
affidavits
A document that contains facts that you swear under oath or affirm to be true. A lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits must witness your signature and sign your affidavit.
affirm
To solemnly and formally declare in front of a lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits that statements made in court or the contents of an affidavit are true to the best of your knowledge and belief. An alternative to a religious oath (“swearing”).
affirms
To solemnly and formally declare in front of a lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits that statements made in court or the contents of an affidavit are true to the best of your knowledge and belief. An alternative to a religious oath (“swearing”).
age of majority
The age at which a person legally becomes an adult, which means they can do such things as enter into a binding contract. In BC, the age of majority is 19.
agreement
A written document that sets out how you and your spouse have agreed to deal with parenting, support, and/or property.
agreements
A written document that sets out how you and your spouse have agreed to deal with parenting, support, and/or property.
allocation of parental responsibilities
How guardians share or divide parenting decisions. (“Allocation” means distributing something according to a plan.) You might decide this between you and record it in an agreement or ask the court for a court order.
alternative service
When a court gives you permission to serve (deliver) documents on a party in some way other than giving them the documents personally; for example, by serving them on a family member. Also called substituted service.
annulment
When a judge makes a declaration that a marriage is invalid (for example, if one spouse was already married, or if the husband and wife found out they were brother and sister).
annulments
When a judge makes a declaration that a marriage is invalid (for example, if one spouse was already married, or if the husband and wife found out they were brother and sister).
applicant
The person who applies for a family order by filing a Notice of Application (Supreme Court) or Application to Obtain an Order (Provincial Court). Also sometimes the person who files a Notice of Motion in a Provincial Court.
applicant's
The person who applies for a family order by filing a Notice of Application (Supreme Court) or Application to Obtain an Order (Provincial Court). Also sometimes the person who files a Notice of Motion in a Provincial Court.
applicants
The person who applies for a family order by filing a Notice of Application (Supreme Court) or Application to Obtain an Order (Provincial Court). Also sometimes the person who files a Notice of Motion in a Provincial Court.
Application Record
A binder the applicant prepares and files, containing evidence presented to the judge/master so they can decide whether to make or change a court order. Includes a table of contents (called an index), and photocopies of the documents filed by all parties.
arrears
Past support payments that haven't been paid.
asset
Any item worth money that's owned by a person, especially if it could be converted to cash.
assets
Any item worth money that's owned by a person, especially if it could be converted to cash.
attorn
To accept the jurisdiction (authority) of a particular court, usually by filing responding court documents (for example, an Application Response [Form F31]) and/or appearing in court.
attorns
To accept the jurisdiction (authority) of a particular court, usually by filing responding court documents (for example, an Application Response [Form F31]) and/or appearing in court.
best interests
A legal test used in family law cases to decide what would best protect your child's physical, psychological, and emotional safety, security, and well-being. See section 37 of the Family Law Act for more information.
best interests of the child
A legal test used in family law cases to decide what would best protect your child's physical, psychological, and emotional safety, security, and well-being. See section 37 of the Family Law Act for more information.
best interests of the children
A legal test used in family law cases to decide what would best protect your child's physical, psychological, and emotional safety, security, and well-being. See section 37 of the Family Law Act for more information.
business day
A day on which the court registry is open for business.
business days
A day on which the court registry is open for business.
care of the ministry
Your child is placed in foster care.
care of the Ministry of Children and Family Development
Your child is placed in foster care.
case conference
A one-hour informal meeting with a judge and the other party to try and settle parenting (and sometimes support) issues so you can avoid a full hearing in Provincial Court. Either party may request a Family Case Conference (FCC) at any time.
case management order
A type of conduct order a court can make to manage a case. Order could be for an adjournment so parties can try to settle issues; to require one party not to make more applications without the court's permission; that an application goes back to the same judge; or to cancel or dismiss all or part of a claim.
case management orders
A type of conduct order a court can make to manage a case. Order could be for an adjournment so parties can try to settle issues; to require one party not to make more applications without the court's permission; that an application goes back to the same judge; or to cancel or dismiss all or part of a claim.
Chambers
A Supreme Court courtroom where applications (not trials) are heard.
change order
"To vary" means "to change." Sometimes lawyers, judges, and court staff use this term to refer to changing an order.
child
In BC, anyone under 19.
child of the marriage
Under the Divorce Act, a child under the age of majority who hasn't withdrawn from a parent's charge or one who's over the age of majority (19 in BC) but unable to withdraw from a parent's charge because of illness, disability, or other cause.
child protection
If a child's safety is at risk, the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) must look into it. If necessary, the ministry must take your child from your home.
child protection investigation
If a child protection worker (social worker) from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) contacts you or visits your home to ask questions about your family. The child protection worker might take your child from your home.
child support
Money paid by one spouse or parent to the other spouse or parent after separation (spousal support), or by one parent or guardian to another parent or guardian (child support).
child's
In BC, anyone under 19.
child's best interests
A legal test used in family law cases to decide what would best protect your child's physical, psychological, and emotional safety, security, and well-being. See section 37 of the Family Law Act for more information.
children of the marriage
Under the Divorce Act, a child under the age of majority who hasn't withdrawn from a parent's charge or one who's over the age of majority (19 in BC) but unable to withdraw from a parent's charge because of illness, disability, or other cause.
children's best interests
A legal test used in family law cases to decide what would best protect your child's physical, psychological, and emotional safety, security, and well-being. See section 37 of the Family Law Act for more information.
claimant
The person who starts a family law action in Supreme Court by filing a Notice of Family Claim (Form F3).
claimant's
The person who starts a family law action in Supreme Court by filing a Notice of Family Claim (Form F3).
claimants
The person who starts a family law action in Supreme Court by filing a Notice of Family Claim (Form F3).
collaborative planning and decision making
Ministry of Children and Family Development program you can participate in to help make decisions about your child's safety (also known as alternative dispute resolution or consensual dispute resolution).
collusion
An agreement or conspiracy between spouses to lie or deceive the court in order to get a divorce. To get a divorce, you must swear there's been no collusion.
commissioner
A person with the legal authority to administer an oath or an affirmation (for example, when you "swear" an affidavit).
commissioner for taking affidavits
A person with the legal authority to administer an oath or an affirmation (for example, when you "swear" an affidavit).
commissioner of oaths
A person with the legal authority to administer an oath or an affirmation (for example, when you "swear" an affidavit).
commissioners for taking affidavits
A person with the legal authority to administer an oath or an affirmation (for example, when you "swear" an affidavit).
commissioners of oaths
A person with the legal authority to administer an oath or an affirmation (for example, when you "swear" an affidavit).
common law
Term not used in BC law. Often used to refer to a marriage-like relationship that's lasted a certain length of time, usually one or two years. Used in some federal laws to refer to a marriage-like relationship of a year or longer.
common-law
Term not used in BC law. Often used to refer to a marriage-like relationship that's lasted a certain length of time, usually one or two years. Used in some federal laws to refer to a marriage-like relationship of a year or longer.
common-law partner
Term not used in BC law. Often used to refer to a marriage-like relationship that's lasted a certain length of time, usually one or two years. Used in some federal laws to refer to a marriage-like relationship of a year or longer.
common-law relationship
Term not used in BC law. Often used to refer to a marriage-like relationship that's lasted a certain length of time, usually one or two years. Used in some federal laws to refer to a marriage-like relationship of a year or longer.
common-law relationships
Term not used in BC law. Often used to refer to a marriage-like relationship that's lasted a certain length of time, usually one or two years. Used in some federal laws to refer to a marriage-like relationship of a year or longer.
conduct order
A type of court order that's intended to help the court manage the people involved in a court process and encourage dispute resolution.
conduct orders
A type of court order that's intended to help the court manage the people involved in a court process and encourage dispute resolution.
consent
An order a court makes based on what you and the other party have agreed to. In child protection cases, an order a court makes stating a parent agrees with the Ministry of Children and Family Development plan for protecting a child.
consent order
An order a court makes based on what you and the other party have agreed to. In child protection cases, an order a court makes stating a parent agrees with the Ministry of Children and Family Development plan for protecting a child.
consent orders
An order a court makes based on what you and the other party have agreed to. In child protection cases, an order a court makes stating a parent agrees with the Ministry of Children and Family Development plan for protecting a child.
contact
Under the BC Family Law Act, the time that a person who is not a guardian spends with a child. People other than the guardian (including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other relatives) can apply for contact with a child. The Divorce Act uses the term access.
contact with a child
Under the BC Family Law Act, the time that a person who is not a guardian spends with a child. People other than the guardian (including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other relatives) can apply for contact with a child. The Divorce Act uses the term access.
contact with the child
Under the BC Family Law Act, the time that a person who is not a guardian spends with a child. People other than the guardian (including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other relatives) can apply for contact with a child. The Divorce Act uses the term access.
contact with your child
Under the BC Family Law Act, the time that a person who is not a guardian spends with a child. People other than the guardian (including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other relatives) can apply for contact with a child. The Divorce Act uses the term access.
costs
In Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal, a master or judge's order that the losing party in a lawsuit give an amount of money to the other party based on the time or money the other party spent to go to court. This may include court fees, disbursements, and legal fees.
creditor
creditors
custodial parent
The parent who has custody of the child.
custodial parent's
The parent who has custody of the child.
custody
Under the Divorce Act, where and with whom a child lives, and the guardian's rights and responsibilities for the child. Under the BC Child, Family and Community Service Act, custody is similar.
delegated Aboriginal agency
An agency that has an agreement with the Ministry of Children and Family Development to provide certain child protection services for Aboriginal communities.
dependent children
Children who are under 19; or over 19 but can't take care of themselves because of illness, disability, or another reason.
deponent
A person who swears, takes an oath, or affirms that the information in a form (for example, an Affidavit [Form F30]) is true. The deponent must sign the form in the presence of a commissioner for taking affidavits, lawyer, or notary public.
deponent's
A person who swears, takes an oath, or affirms that the information in a form (for example, an Affidavit [Form F30]) is true. The deponent must sign the form in the presence of a commissioner for taking affidavits, lawyer, or notary public.
deponents
A person who swears, takes an oath, or affirms that the information in a form (for example, an Affidavit [Form F30]) is true. The deponent must sign the form in the presence of a commissioner for taking affidavits, lawyer, or notary public.
desk order divorce
When a judge makes a divorce order without the parties appearing in court. Can be ordered for both sole and joint applications.
desk order divorces
When a judge makes a divorce order without the parties appearing in court. Can be ordered for both sole and joint applications.
desk-order divorce
When a judge makes a divorce order without the parties appearing in court. Can be ordered for both sole and joint applications.
desk-order divorces
When a judge makes a divorce order without the parties appearing in court. Can be ordered for both sole and joint applications.
disclose
The process of exchanging information (for example, financial statements) required to settle or decide legal issues with the other party. Failing to disclose required documents can have serious consequences.
disclosed
The process of exchanging information (for example, financial statements) required to settle or decide legal issues with the other party. Failing to disclose required documents can have serious consequences.
disclosure
The process of exchanging information (for example, financial statements) required to settle or decide legal issues with the other party. Failing to disclose required documents can have serious consequences.
disclosures
The process of exchanging information (for example, financial statements) required to settle or decide legal issues with the other party. Failing to disclose required documents can have serious consequences.
dispute resolution
The process in which two people work through their family law issues with a trained professional, like a mediator. Meant to help you settle a legal dispute without going to court.
dispute resolutions
The process in which two people work through their family law issues with a trained professional, like a mediator. Meant to help you settle a legal dispute without going to court.
divorce
The end of a legal marriage. To get a divorce, you must go through a legal process and get a court order that says the marriage has ended.
divorced
The end of a legal marriage. To get a divorce, you must go through a legal process and get a court order that says the marriage has ended.
divorces
The end of a legal marriage. To get a divorce, you must go through a legal process and get a court order that says the marriage has ended.
document
Any physical (paper) or electronic record of information (of a permanent or semi-permanent character) recorded or stored by any means of any device, including photographs, films, sound recordings, disks, tapes, and computer files.
documents
Any physical (paper) or electronic record of information (of a permanent or semi-permanent character) recorded or stored by any means of any device, including photographs, films, sound recordings, disks, tapes, and computer files.
duty counsel
Lawyers paid by Legal Aid BC who can help people with low incomes with their family law, criminal law, or immigration law problems. Duty counsel can give free legal advice, but can’t take on your whole case or represent you at trial.
duty counsel's
Lawyers paid by Legal Aid BC who can help people with low incomes with their family law, criminal law, or immigration law problems. Duty counsel can give free legal advice, but can’t take on your whole case or represent you at trial.
eligibility
Whether you can get services
eligible
Whether you can get services
enforce
Steps taken to make a party follow a court order or filed agreement. The court enforces most family orders and certain filed agreements. The Family Maintenance Enforcement Program enforces support orders. The police enforce protection orders.
enforceable
Steps taken to make a party follow a court order or filed agreement. The court enforces most family orders and certain filed agreements. The Family Maintenance Enforcement Program enforces support orders. The police enforce protection orders.
enforced
Steps taken to make a party follow a court order or filed agreement. The court enforces most family orders and certain filed agreements. The Family Maintenance Enforcement Program enforces support orders. The police enforce protection orders.
enforcement
Steps taken to make a party follow a court order or filed agreement. The court enforces most family orders and certain filed agreements. The Family Maintenance Enforcement Program enforces support orders. The police enforce protection orders.
enforces
Steps taken to make a party follow a court order or filed agreement. The court enforces most family orders and certain filed agreements. The Family Maintenance Enforcement Program enforces support orders. The police enforce protection orders.
enforcing
Steps taken to make a party follow a court order or filed agreement. The court enforces most family orders and certain filed agreements. The Family Maintenance Enforcement Program enforces support orders. The police enforce protection orders.
enter
At the conclusion of a case (which may or may not include going to court), the order containing all the details is "entered." An "entered" order is one that's been approved (signed) by a judge/master or registrar and filed (stamped) at the court registry office.
entered
At the conclusion of a case (which may or may not include going to court), the order containing all the details is "entered." An "entered" order is one that's been approved (signed) by a judge/master or registrar and filed (stamped) at the court registry office.
excluded property
The property that each spouse owned before the relationship started, as well as gifts and inheritances to one spouse (Section 85 of the Family Law Act gives a full list). Excluded property usually belongs to the spouse who acquired it, except for any increases in value that happened during the course of the relationship.
exhibit
A document presented in court or attached to an affidavit. An exhibit can be all sorts of things; for example, a photograph, an email, a bank statement, or a receipt.
exhibits
A document presented in court or attached to an affidavit. An exhibit can be all sorts of things; for example, a photograph, an email, a bank statement, or a receipt.
extraordinary expenses
Special expenses are over and above the regular cost of living for a child, such as the cost of child care or post-secondary education. Extraordinary expenses are for education, programs, or extracurricular activities that meet the child's needs, such as for tutoring or private school, or for other activities at which the child excels.
Family Case Conference
A one-hour informal meeting with a judge and the other party to try and settle parenting (and sometimes support) issues so you can avoid a full hearing in Provincial Court. Either party may request a Family Case Conference (FCC) at any time.
Family Case Conferences
A one-hour informal meeting with a judge and the other party to try and settle parenting (and sometimes support) issues so you can avoid a full hearing in Provincial Court. Either party may request a Family Case Conference (FCC) at any time.
family debt
Money owed to others accumulated during a relationship or to maintain family property after separation. The law assumes that both spouses are equally responsible for the debt unless an equal division would be significantly unfair.
family debts
Money owed to others accumulated during a relationship or to maintain family property after separation. The law assumes that both spouses are equally responsible for the debt unless an equal division would be significantly unfair.
family dispute resolution professional
Under BC law, includes family justice counsellors; parenting coordinators; and lawyers, mediators, and arbitrators in family law cases.
family dispute resolution professional's
Under BC law, includes family justice counsellors; parenting coordinators; and lawyers, mediators, and arbitrators in family law cases.
family dispute resolution professionals
Under BC law, includes family justice counsellors; parenting coordinators; and lawyers, mediators, and arbitrators in family law cases.
family law case
A legal proceeding in which people apply for orders under either the Divorce Act or the Family Law Act for any of the following: guardianship, parenting time, allocation of parenting responsibilities, contact with a child, custody, access, support, division of property, annulment of a marriage, divorce, declarations of parentage, or adoption.
family law cases
A legal proceeding in which people apply for orders under either the Divorce Act or the Family Law Act for any of the following: guardianship, parenting time, allocation of parenting responsibilities, contact with a child, custody, access, support, division of property, annulment of a marriage, divorce, declarations of parentage, or adoption.
family law protection order
A court order under the Family Law Act to protect someone from violence. Previously called a restraining order.
family law protection orders
A court order under the Family Law Act to protect someone from violence. Previously called a restraining order.
Family Maintenance Enforcement Program
The BC Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP) can track and monitor the child support and/or spousal support payments set out in a court order or agreement. Staff in the program can take action to get payments if the payor falls behind. Either payors or recipients can choose to enroll in the program.
family property
The assets acquired by either spouse during the course of the relationship, plus any increase in the value of excluded property. The law assumes that you're both entitled to an equal share of family property unless an equal division would be significantly unfair.
file
When a party to a court action, or the court clerk, submits a document to the court registry and the registry clerk accepts, stamps, and puts it in a court file.
filed
When a party to a court action, or the court clerk, submits a document to the court registry and the registry clerk accepts, stamps, and puts it in a court file.
files
When a party to a court action, or the court clerk, submits a document to the court registry and the registry clerk accepts, stamps, and puts it in a court file.
financially eligible
Meet our financial guidelines; you must not earn more than a certain amount.
First Nation
Includes status and non-status Indians. It can also refer to a band or community.
First Nations
Includes status and non-status Indians. It can also refer to a band or community.
FMEP
The BC Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP) can track and monitor the child support and/or spousal support payments set out in a court order or agreement. Staff in the program can take action to get payments if the payor falls behind. Either payors or recipients can choose to enroll in the program.
guardian
When a child's parents live together, both parents are the child's guardians (have guardianship). When the parents separate, both parents continue to be guardians unless they agree to change this or a court orders a change. A court can give guardianship of a child to a non-parent. Guardians are responsible for making all decisions about their child, including about daily care and supervision, education, health care, cultural or religious upbringing, and where the child will live.
guardians
When a child's parents live together, both parents are the child's guardians (have guardianship). When the parents separate, both parents continue to be guardians unless they agree to change this or a court orders a change. A court can give guardianship of a child to a non-parent. Guardians are responsible for making all decisions about their child, including about daily care and supervision, education, health care, cultural or religious upbringing, and where the child will live.
guardianship
When a child's parents live together, both parents are the child's guardians (have guardianship). When the parents separate, both parents continue to be guardians unless they agree to change this or a court orders a change. A court can give guardianship of a child to a non-parent. Guardians are responsible for making all decisions about their child, including about daily care and supervision, education, health care, cultural or religious upbringing, and where the child will live.
impute
When a person ordered to pay child or spousal support doesn't give the court all the required evidence of their income, the judge can use the available evidence to come up with an income amount to make decisions about support. This is called "imputed income."
imputed
When a person ordered to pay child or spousal support doesn't give the court all the required evidence of their income, the judge can use the available evidence to come up with an income amount to make decisions about support. This is called "imputed income."
income
Money that comes into your home, usually your wages or salary.
income assistance
Welfare.
incomes
Money that comes into your home, usually your wages or salary.
incur
To take on. For example, if you incur an expense for the children, you're taking on that expense and you'll have to pay it.
incurs
To take on. For example, if you incur an expense for the children, you're taking on that expense and you'll have to pay it.
information
General information about the law that helps you identify a legal issue and the options that might be available to help you.
interim
A temporary court order made before a trial.
interim order
A temporary court order made before a trial.
interim orders
A temporary court order made before a trial.
interjurisdictional
Situations where a court action involves people living in different provinces or jurisdictions.
investigate
If a child protection worker (social worker) from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) contacts you or visits your home to ask questions about your family. The child protection worker might take your child from your home.
investigated
If a child protection worker (social worker) from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) contacts you or visits your home to ask questions about your family. The child protection worker might take your child from your home.
investigated for a child protection matter
If a child protection worker (social worker) from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) contacts you or visits your home to ask questions about your family. The child protection worker might take your child from your home.
investigates
If a child protection worker (social worker) from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) contacts you or visits your home to ask questions about your family. The child protection worker might take your child from your home.
investigating
If a child protection worker (social worker) from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) contacts you or visits your home to ask questions about your family. The child protection worker might take your child from your home.
investigation
If a child protection worker (social worker) from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (or a delegated Aboriginal agency) contacts you or visits your home to ask questions about your family. The child protection worker might take your child from your home.
JCC
An informal and confidential meeting between the parties and a judge or master in a Supreme Court case. Required in most cases before any party can bring a contested court application. The purpose is to clearly identify the issues to be decided, explore settlement options, or prepare for the hearing. Either party may request a Judicial Case Conference (JCC) at any time.
joint custody
Under the Divorce Act, when both parents share equally the rights and responsibilities with respect to their child or children. The child(ren) can live with both parents or mostly with one parent (the child's primary residence).
joint divorce
When you and your spouse file for divorce together. You and your spouse must agree on everything to get a joint divorce.
joint divorces
When you and your spouse file for divorce together. You and your spouse must agree on everything to get a joint divorce.
Judicial Case Conference
An informal and confidential meeting between the parties and a judge or master in a Supreme Court case. Required in most cases before any party can bring a contested court application. The purpose is to clearly identify the issues to be decided, explore settlement options, or prepare for the hearing. Either party may request a Judicial Case Conference (JCC) at any time.
Judicial Case Conference (JCC)
An informal and confidential meeting between the parties and a judge or master in a Supreme Court case. Required in most cases before any party can bring a contested court application. The purpose is to clearly identify the issues to be decided, explore settlement options, or prepare for the hearing. Either party may request a Judicial Case Conference (JCC) at any time.
Judicial Case Conferences
An informal and confidential meeting between the parties and a judge or master in a Supreme Court case. Required in most cases before any party can bring a contested court application. The purpose is to clearly identify the issues to be decided, explore settlement options, or prepare for the hearing. Either party may request a Judicial Case Conference (JCC) at any time.
jurisdiction
A court's power or authority over people, territories, or subject matter.
legal advice
Involves applying the law to a particular situation. It also involves providing a legal opinion and specific advice about the best course of action.
legal aid
A range of free services available to people with low incomes. Services include legal information, legal advice, and legal representation (a lawyer to take your case).
legal information
General information about the law that helps you identify a legal issue and the options that might be available to help you.
legal representation
A lawyer to take your case.
longer-term emergency shelter
A longer-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children.
longer-term emergency shelters
A longer-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children.
Métis
People of mixed First Nations and European ancestry who identify themselves as Métis, as distinct from First Nations, Inuit, or non-Aboriginal people. The Métis have a unique culture that draws on their diverse ancestral origins.
marriage
When two people agree to live together in a partnership made legally binding by a religious or legal ceremony. Marriage can only be ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of one of the parties.
marriages
When two people agree to live together in a partnership made legally binding by a religious or legal ceremony. Marriage can only be ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of one of the parties.
married
When two people agree to live together in a partnership made legally binding by a religious or legal ceremony. Marriage can only be ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of one of the parties.
marry
When two people agree to live together in a partnership made legally binding by a religious or legal ceremony. Marriage can only be ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of one of the parties.
master
A judicial officer of the Supreme Court who can hear and decide certain applications, including interim applications for parenting or support orders. Masters can also hold Judicial Case Conferences (JCC).
master's
A judicial officer of the Supreme Court who can hear and decide certain applications, including interim applications for parenting or support orders. Masters can also hold Judicial Case Conferences (JCC).
masters
A judicial officer of the Supreme Court who can hear and decide certain applications, including interim applications for parenting or support orders. Masters can also hold Judicial Case Conferences (JCC).
material evidence
A fact that's important or essential to proving your case.
material fact
A fact that's important or essential to proving your case.
material facts
A fact that's important or essential to proving your case.
mediate
An approach to solving problems in which a third party (a mediator) helps people with family law problems reach a resolution without going to court. Mediators are specially qualified to help people reach agreements. Some mediators are lawyers.
mediation
An approach to solving problems in which a third party (a mediator) helps people with family law problems reach a resolution without going to court. Mediators are specially qualified to help people reach agreements. Some mediators are lawyers.
mediator
An approach to solving problems in which a third party (a mediator) helps people with family law problems reach a resolution without going to court. Mediators are specially qualified to help people reach agreements. Some mediators are lawyers.
mediator's
An approach to solving problems in which a third party (a mediator) helps people with family law problems reach a resolution without going to court. Mediators are specially qualified to help people reach agreements. Some mediators are lawyers.
mediators
An approach to solving problems in which a third party (a mediator) helps people with family law problems reach a resolution without going to court. Mediators are specially qualified to help people reach agreements. Some mediators are lawyers.
ministry's care
Your child is placed in foster care.
no contact order
A court order that prohibits a person from contacting someone else (usually their former partner/spouse).
no contact orders
A court order that prohibits a person from contacting someone else (usually their former partner/spouse).
non-status Indian
Someone of First Nations descent who isn't registered as an Indian under the Indian Act.
non-status Indians
Someone of First Nations descent who isn't registered as an Indian under the Indian Act.
Notaries
A professional who has the authority to certify and prepare legal documents, witness signatures, and administer oaths and affirmations, among other services. In BC, all lawyers are notaries, but not all notaries are lawyers.
notaries public
A professional who has the authority to certify and prepare legal documents, witness signatures, and administer oaths and affirmations, among other services. In BC, all lawyers are notaries, but not all notaries are lawyers.
notary public
A professional who has the authority to certify and prepare legal documents, witness signatures, and administer oaths and affirmations, among other services. In BC, all lawyers are notaries, but not all notaries are lawyers.
order
A type of court ruling a judge or master makes that sets out what you must do or not do.
orders
A type of court ruling a judge or master makes that sets out what you must do or not do.
parent
Who a person's parents are. Generally, if a child is conceived naturally, a child's parents are the birth mother and biological father. This can be different if a child is adopted or born as a result of assisted reproduction.
parentage
Who a person's parents are. Generally, if a child is conceived naturally, a child's parents are the birth mother and biological father. This can be different if a child is adopted or born as a result of assisted reproduction.
parental responsibilities
The responsibilities guardians have for the children in their care, including decisions about daily care, education, religious upbringing, extracurricular activities, etc. After separation or divorce, guardians can share parental responsibilities in whatever way that's in the child's best interests, as decided by agreement or court order.
parented
Who a person's parents are. Generally, if a child is conceived naturally, a child's parents are the birth mother and biological father. This can be different if a child is adopted or born as a result of assisted reproduction.
parenting
Refers to contact with a child, guardianship, parental responsibilities, and parenting time (terms used by the BC Family Law Act); and access and custody (terms used by the federal Divorce Act). Covers who has the right and responsibility to make decisions about the child and the time that guardians and non-guardians spend with the child.
parenting arrangements
The arrangements made for parenting responsibilities and parenting time in a court order or agreement between guardians. Parenting arrangements don't include contact with a child.
parenting coordinator
A neutral third party who helps guardians resolve day-to-day conflicts about their parenting arrangements or parenting orders.
parenting coordinators
A neutral third party who helps guardians resolve day-to-day conflicts about their parenting arrangements or parenting orders.
parenting order
Under the Family Law Act (in either Provincial Court or Supreme Court), a court order dealing with guardianship, parenting time, allocation of parenting responsibilities, or contact with a child. Under the Divorce Act in Supreme Court, a court order dealing with custody and access.
parenting orders
Under the Family Law Act (in either Provincial Court or Supreme Court), a court order dealing with guardianship, parenting time, allocation of parenting responsibilities, or contact with a child. Under the Divorce Act in Supreme Court, a court order dealing with custody and access.
parenting plan
An agreement about how to be parents when you live apart.
parenting plans
An agreement about how to be parents when you live apart.
parenting time
The time that a guardian spends with a child and is responsible for the care and supervision of the child.
parents
Who a person's parents are. Generally, if a child is conceived naturally, a child's parents are the birth mother and biological father. This can be different if a child is adopted or born as a result of assisted reproduction.
parties
A participant in a court case, contract, or other legal matter; can be an individual, a corporation, or other entity.
parties'
A participant in a court case, contract, or other legal matter; can be an individual, a corporation, or other entity.
partner
Your common-law girlfriend or boyfriend, or your spouse (the person you're married to).
partner's
Your common-law girlfriend or boyfriend, or your spouse (the person you're married to).
partners
Your common-law girlfriend or boyfriend, or your spouse (the person you're married to).
partners'
Your common-law girlfriend or boyfriend, or your spouse (the person you're married to).
party
A participant in a court case, contract, or other legal matter; can be an individual, a corporation, or other entity.
party's
A participant in a court case, contract, or other legal matter; can be an individual, a corporation, or other entity.
payor
The person who pays child or spousal support/maintenance.
payor's
The person who pays child or spousal support/maintenance.
payors
The person who pays child or spousal support/maintenance.
peace bond
A court order with conditions for one person to follow that are meant to protect someone else.
peace bonds
A court order with conditions for one person to follow that are meant to protect someone else.
plaintiff
Under the old Supreme Court Rules, the term used for the party who initiates the action or court proceedings. In the new Rules, this person is the claimant.
plaintiff's
Under the old Supreme Court Rules, the term used for the party who initiates the action or court proceedings. In the new Rules, this person is the claimant.
plaintiffs
Under the old Supreme Court Rules, the term used for the party who initiates the action or court proceedings. In the new Rules, this person is the claimant.
process server
A person who's in the business of serving or giving documents to the other party.
process server's
A person who's in the business of serving or giving documents to the other party.
process servers
A person who's in the business of serving or giving documents to the other party.
property
Anything you own, including real estate, bank accounts, cars and other vehicles, and RRSPs.
Reasons for Judgment
The document that contains the judge's decision and the reasons for their decision. Reasons for Judgment may be written or oral. If they're oral, the parties may order a transcript of them from the court.
recipient
The person who receives child or spousal support/maintenance.
recipient's
The person who receives child or spousal support/maintenance.
recipients
The person who receives child or spousal support/maintenance.
recipients'
The person who receives child or spousal support/maintenance.
reciprocal agreement
When an order or written agreement made in one place can be enforced in the other. BC has reciprocal agreements with all other Canadian provinces, the United States, and several other countries.
reciprocal agreements
When an order or written agreement made in one place can be enforced in the other. BC has reciprocal agreements with all other Canadian provinces, the United States, and several other countries.
relocate
To move to another place.
relocated
To move to another place.
relocates
To move to another place.
relocating
To move to another place.
represent
A lawyer to take your case.
representation
A lawyer to take your case.
requisition
The document filed in the court registry that tells the court what you want.
requisitions
The document filed in the court registry that tells the court what you want.
respondent
In many court proceedings, a term used for a party who responds to the application.
respondent's
In many court proceedings, a term used for a party who responds to the application.
respondents
In many court proceedings, a term used for a party who responds to the application.
respondents'
In many court proceedings, a term used for a party who responds to the application.
safe house
A short-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children. Usually you can stay in one for only up to seven days.
safe houses
A short-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children. Usually you can stay in one for only up to seven days.
safety plan
A list of the actions you take to protect yourself and your children either during or after leaving an abusive relationship.
separation
A document that sets how you and your spouse have agreed to deal with things like parenting, support, and property after you separate (Provincial family law just calls it an agreement). There's no official form to use for drawing up a separation agreement.
separation agreement
A document that sets how you and your spouse have agreed to deal with things like parenting, support, and property after you separate (Provincial family law just calls it an agreement). There's no official form to use for drawing up a separation agreement.
separation agreements
A document that sets how you and your spouse have agreed to deal with things like parenting, support, and property after you separate (Provincial family law just calls it an agreement). There's no official form to use for drawing up a separation agreement.
serve
The act of delivering or leaving documents with the other party.
served
The act of delivering or leaving documents with the other party.
serves
The act of delivering or leaving documents with the other party.
service
The act of delivering or leaving documents with the other party.
serving
The act of delivering or leaving documents with the other party.
short-term emergency shelter
A short-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children. Usually you can stay in one for only up to seven days.
short-term emergency shelters
A short-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children. Usually you can stay in one for only up to seven days.
shuttle mediation
A type of mediation where the parties stay in separate rooms and speak only through the mediator who shares information back and forth.
social assistance
Welfare.
sole custody
Term used only under the Divorce Act in Supreme Court. When the parents agree or the court orders that one parent has the legal responsibility for caring for and making all decisions about a child. Usually the child lives primarily with that parent.
special expenses
Special expenses are over and above the regular cost of living for a child, such as the cost of child care or post-secondary education. Extraordinary expenses are for education, programs, or extracurricular activities that meet the child's needs, such as for tutoring or private school, or for other activities at which the child excels.
special or extraordinary expenses
Special expenses are over and above the regular cost of living for a child, such as the cost of child care or post-secondary education. Extraordinary expenses are for education, programs, or extracurricular activities that meet the child's needs, such as for tutoring or private school, or for other activities at which the child excels.
spousal support
Money paid by one spouse or parent to the other spouse or parent after separation (spousal support), or by one parent or guardian to another parent or guardian (child support).
spouse
Member of a same-sex or opposite-sex couple who are married or in a marriage-like relationship. An unmarried couple must have lived together for at least two years to divide property and debts; two years for spousal support if you have no children; any amount of time for spousal support if you have children; one year for some federal (Canadian) benefits.
spouse's
Member of a same-sex or opposite-sex couple who are married or in a marriage-like relationship. An unmarried couple must have lived together for at least two years to divide property and debts; two years for spousal support if you have no children; any amount of time for spousal support if you have children; one year for some federal (Canadian) benefits.
spouses
Member of a same-sex or opposite-sex couple who are married or in a marriage-like relationship. An unmarried couple must have lived together for at least two years to divide property and debts; two years for spousal support if you have no children; any amount of time for spousal support if you have children; one year for some federal (Canadian) benefits.
spouses'
Member of a same-sex or opposite-sex couple who are married or in a marriage-like relationship. An unmarried couple must have lived together for at least two years to divide property and debts; two years for spousal support if you have no children; any amount of time for spousal support if you have children; one year for some federal (Canadian) benefits.
stand-by
Someone named by a child's guardian to take over parental responsibilities if the guardian becomes unable to look after the child.
stand-by guardian
Someone named by a child's guardian to take over parental responsibilities if the guardian becomes unable to look after the child.
stand-by guardian's
Someone named by a child's guardian to take over parental responsibilities if the guardian becomes unable to look after the child.
stand-by guardians
Someone named by a child's guardian to take over parental responsibilities if the guardian becomes unable to look after the child.
status Indian
Someone who's registered as an Indian under the Indian Act.
status Indians
Someone who's registered as an Indian under the Indian Act.
style of cause
All the information at the top of the front page of each court form. Includes the court file number, the name of the court registry, the title "Supreme Court of British Columbia" or "Provincial Court of British Columbia," the name of each party, and the name of the form.
style of proceeding
All the information at the top of the front page of each court form. Includes the court file number, the name of the court registry, the title "Supreme Court of British Columbia" or "Provincial Court of British Columbia," the name of each party, and the name of the form.
substituted service
When a court gives you permission to serve (deliver) documents on a party in some way other than giving them the documents personally; for example, by serving them on a family member. Also called substituted service.
summary trial
A trial based on written evidence, where no one has to give oral evidence in court. A summary trial is quicker and less complicated than a full trial.
summary trials
A trial based on written evidence, where no one has to give oral evidence in court. A summary trial is quicker and less complicated than a full trial.
support
Money paid by one spouse or parent to the other spouse or parent after separation (spousal support), or by one parent or guardian to another parent or guardian (child support).
survivor
The person whose spouse or common-law partner has died.
survivors
The person whose spouse or common-law partner has died.
swear
To take an oath in front of a lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits that statements made in court or the contents of an affidavit are true to the best of your knowledge and belief and that your oath is "under an immediate sense of responsibility to God." A non-religious alternative is to affirm.
swearing
To take an oath in front of a lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits that statements made in court or the contents of an affidavit are true to the best of your knowledge and belief and that your oath is "under an immediate sense of responsibility to God." A non-religious alternative is to affirm.
swears
To take an oath in front of a lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits that statements made in court or the contents of an affidavit are true to the best of your knowledge and belief and that your oath is "under an immediate sense of responsibility to God." A non-religious alternative is to affirm.
sworn
To take an oath in front of a lawyer, notary public, or commissioner for taking affidavits that statements made in court or the contents of an affidavit are true to the best of your knowledge and belief and that your oath is "under an immediate sense of responsibility to God." A non-religious alternative is to affirm.
take your child from your home
Your child is placed in foster care.
taken away by the Ministry of Children and Family Development
Your child is placed in foster care.
takes your child from your home
Your child is placed in foster care.
taking your child from your home
Your child is placed in foster care.
testamentary guardian
Someone named by a child's guardian to permanently take over parental responsibilities if the guardian dies.
testamentary guardian's
Someone named by a child's guardian to permanently take over parental responsibilities if the guardian dies.
testamentary guardians
Someone named by a child's guardian to permanently take over parental responsibilities if the guardian dies.
transition house
A longer-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children.
transition houses
A longer-term emergency shelter providing a safe place to live and other help for women who've been abused, with or without children.
trial
When both parties and their witnesses appear before a judge and give their evidence under oath and out loud. They are then cross-examined by the other party or by their lawyer. A trial results in a final decision by a judge.
trials
When both parties and their witnesses appear before a judge and give their evidence under oath and out loud. They are then cross-examined by the other party or by their lawyer. A trial results in a final decision by a judge.
trustee
a person who has legal control over money or property that is held in trust for another person
uncontested
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
uncontested (undefended) divorce
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
uncontested (undefended) divorces
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
uncontested divorce
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
uncontested divorces
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
undefended (uncontested) divorce
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
undefended (uncontested) divorces
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
undefended divorce
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
undefended divorces
When no response is filed or the spouses apply for the divorce together by filing a Notice of Joint Family Claim. It's how to get a divorce when the parties agree about the divorce and related issues (for example, parenting, support, and property division). May be called either undefended or uncontested divorce.
undue hardship
Circumstances that show the amount of child support under the child support guidelines is too high or low. Must create "undue" (exceptional, excessive, or disproportionate) difficulty for the person making the claim.
variation
"To vary" means "to change." Sometimes lawyers, judges, and court staff use this term to refer to changing an order.
variation order
"To vary" means "to change." Sometimes lawyers, judges, and court staff use this term to refer to changing an order.
varied
"To vary" means "to change." Sometimes lawyers, judges, and court staff use this term to refer to changing an order.
vary
"To vary" means "to change." Sometimes lawyers, judges, and court staff use this term to refer to changing an order.
varying
"To vary" means "to change." Sometimes lawyers, judges, and court staff use this term to refer to changing an order.