Our Projects & Workshops

Expanding access to legal knowledge through community-based education, outreach, and resources.

Addressing The PLEI Gap

For too long, the scarcity of federal law information specifically tailored for Indigenous people has created a barrier to justice. Federal laws often interact uniquely with Indigenous, First Nation, Metis and Inuit people, and local realities.

BCLAP tries to fill this critical gap. We develop specialized resources and outreach programs serving the communities of Bella Coola, Bella Bella, Klemtu, and Anahim Lake. Our work supports legal understanding of issues that effect their lives in a unique way.

Community Workshops

Delivering legal education directly
to the communities we serve.

Since 2010, BCLAP has organized and delivered public legal education workshops across Mid-Coast communities, including Bella Coola, Bella Bella, Klemtu, and Anahim Lake.

Photos include Lawyers Patricia Barkaskas & Dallas Tooshkenig, Marie-Noel Campbell, Ryan Irvin, and Kevin Love, plus Melvina Mack Wills Clinic Assistant, Marion Anderson Admin Assistant, Carla Brown Elder’s Advocate, Sheldon Tallio Nuxalk Radio and Anne Fletcher Legal Advocate. Thanks to all the community members who have joined us through the years!

Wills and Estates on Reserve

Legal Information for Indigenous People (Booklet)

Wills & Estates

Supporting individuals and families in navigating complex legal processes.

Wills Clinics have been offered regularly since 2012 across all constituent communities, helping individuals understand what makes a valid wills and how to navigate estate processes. Many families face challenges due to the complexities of the Indian Act and the lack of accessible legal guidance.

At the same time, many legal professionals are not fully trained in these specific requirements, leaving a significant gap in support. This work helps bridge that gap by providing guidance, education, and access to resources tailored to the realities of Indigenous communities on reserve.

Legal Information Resources

Creating accessible, plain-language legal information for Indigenous communities.

BCLAP has contributed to the development of legal information resources designed specifically for Indigenous people living on reserve. These materials help address a major gap in accessible legal knowledge by providing clear, relevant, and practical guidance on federal legal matters.

This work is part of a broader national effort to improve access to justice through education, collaboration, and resource development, ensuring information is presented in a way that respects and integrates cultural contexts.