How do I know I have a legal issue?
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A legal issue is a question or problem that is answered or resolved by the law. Legal issues are simpler, cheaper and less stressful when dealt with early.
5 questions to figure out if I have a legal issue
- Do I know of any rights, responsibilities or obligations that are impacted?
- Am I dealing with someone who has way more (or less) power than I do?
- Was something broken, hurt or lost?
- Were other people impacted?
- Did I sign anything?
When in doubt, get HELP!
If you aren’t sure but you feel like something is wrong, you should get more information or seek legal help. There are lots of free or low cost legal help services beyond hiring a lawyer. See Getting Help for more resources.
What Rights and Responsibilities Do I have at the Age...
International Rights of the Child
UN Convention on the Right of the Child that apply to you up until you are 18. All children have the right
- Not to be discriminated against
- To live, be safe and develop to your fullest potential
- To have a voice heard and respected in decisions that impact you
- To have adults make decisions about you that are in your best interest
Dig deeper in Kids have rights!
Have a Voice
Adults making decisions about you should take your views seriously, even if they might not always be able to do exactly what you want.
This right becomes especially important if your parents are separating or you are in the government’s care. You have the right to express your views on things that impact your life. See Your Rights in Care: What You Need to Know and Dealing with Your Parents’ Separation or Divorce.
Register for List of Future Votes
The minimum age Canadian citizens can vote in municipal, provincial or federal elections is 18. If you are 16 or 17 you can register on the List of Future Voters which will automatically register you to vote when you turn 18. You can learn more about registering to the Future Voter list at Elections BC.