Civil Resolution Tribunal
The Civil Resolution Tribunal is part of B.C.’s public justice system and operates primarily online. It handles many small claims up to $5,000, strata-property disputes and certain other categories assigned by legislation. The tribunal emphasizes an accessible process and can issue binding decisions that may be enforceable like court orders.
Start with the official Civil Resolution Tribunal because jurisdiction and process can change.
Provincial Court Small Claims
Provincial Court states that many civil disputes from $5,001 to $35,000 can be brought in Small Claims Court. Procedure is designed to be less formal than Supreme Court, and settlement is encouraged. Some disputes are excluded even if the dollar amount falls within the range.
See Provincial Court Small Claims for current forms and process guidance.
B.C. Supreme Court civil matters
The Supreme Court of British Columbia has broad civil jurisdiction. Its public guidance says civil claims valued at $35,000 and above are generally heard there, while lower-value claims usually belong in Small Claims or the CRT, subject to exceptions. Supreme Court procedure is more formal and legal costs can be significant.
Use the official Supreme Court civil-law portal when checking where and how to file.
Family matters
Provincial Court and Supreme Court can both deal with family-law issues, but their powers are not identical. Divorce itself is under federal legislation and is dealt with in Supreme Court. Parenting, support and other family matters may be addressed in either court depending on the relief sought and procedural context. See our family-law guide.
Criminal matters
Provincial Court handles most adult criminal cases. Some indictable matters can proceed to Supreme Court depending on the offence and mode of trial. Court documents should identify the location and next appearance. See our criminal-law process guide.
Court location is a separate question from court level
Do not assume that living in Burnaby means every matter is heard at a courthouse physically located in Burnaby. Filing location can depend on the type of proceeding, where events occurred and court rules. Provincial Court maintains a current court locations and schedules directory.
Before filing anything
- Confirm the correct forum and location.
- Check limitation periods and response deadlines.
- Identify the remedy you actually need, not only a dollar amount.
- Review service requirements and filing fees.
- Consider settlement and collectability before spending heavily on procedure.