HomeCourts + CrimeResolving disputes

Resolving disputes

Two people shaking hands across a table
Resolving disputes without going to court

Resolving disputes without going to court

Going to court is one way to resolve a dispute. But there are other ways that can be cheaper, faster, and more effective. Learn about options for alternative dispute resolution.

Read more
Facade of courthouse
Our court system in a nutshell

Our court system in a nutshell

Trial courts hear evidence and decide cases. British Columbia has two levels of trial court, Provincial Court and Supreme Court. Learn which type of cases each of these courts handle.

Read more
A women with her fist over her mouth looking into distance
Starting a lawsuit

Starting a lawsuit

A lawsuit is a way to get money or other relief if something’s gone wrong. Learn what to consider and what is involved in starting a lawsuit in British Columbia.

Read more
Woman with folded arms, looking fiercely at camera
Suing someone in Small Claims Court

Suing someone in Small Claims Court

To sue in Small Claims Court, you file a “notice of claim” in court, and then let the party you’re suing know about it. Learn the steps in the process.

Read more
A man looking stressed as he sits outside, folded hands to his face
Being sued in Small Claims Court

Being sued in Small Claims Court

If a notice of claim names you as a defendant in a Small Claims Court lawsuit, learn what options you have, how to act on them, and what happens next.

Read more
Empty courtroom, looking towards front of room
Going to trial in Small Claims Court

Going to trial in Small Claims Court

At a trial, the parties present evidence and a judge decides the case. If you’re going to trial in Small Claims Court, learn how to prepare and what to expect.

Read more
A person holding a cellphone
Appearing in court by phone

Appearing in court by phone

In some situations, parties may be able to attend court by telephone. But they will need to get court approval — in advance. Telephone hearings are more available before tribunals.

Read more
A person writing a cheque
Getting your judgment paid

Getting your judgment paid

If you take someone to court and the judge decides in your favour, it’s up to you to collect the money. Learn your options for getting your court judgment paid.

Read more
Closeup of a woman with arms folded, with group of professionals in background
Class actions in British Columbia

Class actions in British Columbia

It’s a familiar story: a business makes a defective product or does something that harms a group of people. Such a “mass wrong” can be met with a class action.

Read more

We are grateful to work on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, whose Peoples continue to live on and care for these lands.