Acts and Laws

Child, Family and Community Service Act of British Columbia

Through laws, both the Provincial and Federal governments have critical roles in protecting abused and neglected children.

The Child, Family and Community Service Act is the legislative authority for child welfare in British Columbia. Its fundamental guiding principle is that the safety and well-being of children are the paramount considerations.

The CFCSA is available online at:

http://www.bclaws.ca/EPLibraries/bclaws_new/document/ID/freeside/00_96046_01

Criminal Code of Canada

The other legislation that plays an essential role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children is the Criminal Code of Canada (Criminal Code). The Criminal Code provides the justice system with the legal authority to enforce criminal law as it applies to the abuse and neglect of children. It establishes criminal offences, procedures for investigation and prosecution and sanctions for offenders.

The Criminal Code is available online at:

http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/C-46/

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