Coronavirus: Your legal questions answered

“I get that the COVID rules need to adapt to what's happening on the ground, but man, they change often. It’s tough to find up-to-date, reliable information on what's allowed and what's not."

– Hugo, Vancouver, BC

The coronavirus outbreak has dramatically impacted so much about our lives. We’re here to help with answers to common legal questions on public health restrictions, travel, vaccines, masks, workhomemoneyconsumerwillsbusiness, and courts.

Updated October 3, 2022. We're updating this page regularly as developments unfold.

Public health restrictions

Travel

Vaccines

Masks

Work

After being laid off when the pandemic first hit, I’m happy to be getting a full pay cheque again. But it still doesn’t feel like my workplace is safe. Is there anything I can do if I feel uncomfortable?"

– Joseph, Victoria, BC

Home

"My landlord sold their condo, and I was supposed to move out at the end of next month. But now, I’m self-isolating with a bad cough. I don’t think it’s responsible for me to move right now. I’m not sure who I can even get to help me move. I’m in a real bind here."

– Priya, Richmond, BC

Money

“This pandemic made my work situation precarious. And money is tight now. With groceries, rent, loan payments, and so many other pressures, it’s hard for me to prioritize what to pay first."

– Morgan, Vancouver, BC

Consumer

“I got a call from the 'Canada Health Authority' telling me I tested positive for COVID-19. They followed up with a text message saying I was eligible for government benefits. They asked for my social insurance number and personal health number, to 'confirm my identity', as well as my credit card, to process my benefit payments. It sounded so official, but it must have been a scam. I wasn't tested recently for COVID-19."

– Jasper, Golden, BC

Wills

“With the pandemic scare still vivid, writing a will has moved from my should-do list to a top priority. I'm a childcare worker. When you’re caring for little ones — you hold them, you feed them — it’s impossible to practise physical distancing. I’m proud to do my part. But going to work has been a risk to my health and my family’s, so I’m not taking any more chances when it comes to my final wishes.”

– Priya, North Vancouver, BC

Business

I run a small print shop over in East Vancouver. I’ve had to lay off a few employees. I’m still open, but just barely keeping the lights on. One of my biggest clients owes me a bunch of money, but now says they won’t pay me this month."

– Sydney, Vancouver, BC

Courts

I’m confused as to whether in my court case I have extra time to file a claim or counterclaim."

– Rae, Coquitlam, BC

Other resources

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in October 2022
  • Time to read: 30 minutes

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

People's team, People's Law School

People's team

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