Right to a Lawyer

If you’re a youth in BC who’s been arrested, you have the right to speak to a lawyer. You also have rights under the Youth Criminal Justice Act to talk to your parents or another trusted adult, and to have them along with a lawyer in the room with you if you choose to talk to police. 

To contact a free lawyer, call Legal Aid at 604-408-2172 (Greater Vancouver) or 1-866-577-2525 (elsewhere in BC).

Becoming an Adult

The age of majority is 19 in BC. This means once you turn 19 you are considered an adult. You can now make your own decisions in most situations including medical care, legal matters and finances. 

Change Your Name

Once you turn 19 you can change your name without needing your parent or guardian's permission. However, if you are younger than 19 years old and a parent with custody of your child, you may apply for a legal change of name for yourself and/or your child without consent of your parent(s).

Get a Lawyer (non criminal)

The Child & Youth Legal Centre can provide legal advice, information, and representation for children and youth in a number of areas including child protection, family law, and human rights. Call: 778-657-5544 or toll free at 1-877-462-0037

Treated as an Adult by the Criminal Justice System

If you are accused of a crime after you turn 18, your case will be governed by adult criminal procedures. You no longer have many of the special protections afforded to youth. 

Join the Military without Parent/Guardian Consent

People 18 or older do not need permission from their parents or guardians to join the military. 

Apply for an Adult Passport

You must be at least 16 years old to apply for an adult passport. You can find the application here.

Donate Blood

You have to be at least 17 to donate blood in Canada. There are other requirements you must meet to be eligible. Figure out if you are eligible: Am I eligible to donate blood?

Voting

The minimum age Canadian citizens can vote in municipal, provincial or federal elections is 18.