Coronavirus: Your legal questions answered

"Now that COVID is no longer dominating our lives, it feels close to pre-pandemic times. But not with everything. What do we need to be aware of?"

– Sydney, Vancouver, BC

Even though the coronavirus outbreak is mostly behind us, many continue to have questions. We’ve got the latest, as of September 2023, on how COVID impacts work, homemoneyconsumer issueswills, and courts.

Public health restrictions

Work

After being laid off when the pandemic first hit, I’m happy to be getting a full pay cheque again. But I’m worried what my life looks like if (when) I get COVID — or when others at my workplace get sick."

– 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 was eligible for COVID relief benefits. They asked for my social insurance 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 don't think any COVID relief programs are still operating."

– 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 health care worker. 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

Courts

I’m in court in a few weeks time. I gather the courts are open, but is there anything I need to know beforehand about how the court is operating these days?"

– Rae, Coquitlam, BC

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in September 2023
  • Time to read: 13 minutes

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

People's team, People's Law School

People's team

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