Mediation & alternatives to court
It’s always a good idea to try to resolve disputes outside of the formal courtroom. Alternatives such as using a mediator or settling can often be quicker, less stressful, and less expensive than going to court.
Explore the links below to reliable online guides and tools and to organizations in BC. They have been chosen by librarians at Courthouse Libraries BC.
Selected resources
Alternatives to Court
When people involved in a family or civil law dispute have equal power, BC laws encourage them to try to reach an agreement rather than go to trial. This not only maintains people’s control over decision making but avoids the escalation of hostility that often accompanies court proceedings.
Overview: Alternatives to Going to Court
An overview of alternatives to going to court, including the advantages of avoiding court.
About Mediation
Explains mediation, a process for resolving disputes and an alternative to going to court. It covers when to mediate, what mediators do, choosing a mediator, lawyers and mediation, the process, after mediation, and mediation as legal counsel.
Dial-a-Law: Mediation, Collaborative Negotiation, and Arbitration
Explains that going to court over a family law problem can be stressful, time consuming, and expensive. Learn how to use mediation, collaborative negotiation, or arbitration to resolve issues without going to court. You can also find answers to some common questions.
Mediation (in small claims court)
This website provides information about resolving disputes through mediation in small claims court in BC. It explains the difference between mediation and a trial and the benefits of mediation. Details include what to expect, how to prepare, and what happens at the mediation.
Settlement Conference (small claims court)
This web page about settlement conferences discusses how parties in a legal dispute can sit with a Provincial Court judge to explore ways to settle their case without going to trial.
Settlement Smarts: Tips on Effectively Using Negotiation, Mediation and Judge-Led Settlement Processes
This primer helps you prepare and navigate the settlement processes you may encounter during your time as a self-represented litigant. Includes personal and strategic tips specific to the process.