Legal Resources

Find websites and materials written in plain language.

Logo features the initials "JES" in green on the left and a grey scale of justice with the text "Justice Education Society" in a circular arrangement around it on the right.

Settlement Conference (small claims court)

Small Claims BC (Justice Education Society)
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.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features the initials "JES" in green on the left and a grey scale of justice with the text "Justice Education Society" in a circular arrangement around it on the right.

Mediation (in small claims court)

Small Claims BC (Justice Education Society)
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.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features the initials "JES" in green on the left and a grey scale of justice with the text "Justice Education Society" in a circular arrangement around it on the right.

Is Small Claims Court for Me?

Small Claims BC (Justice Education Society)
This website provides information and resources to help you through the small claims court process, and this page is the starting point to learn if small claims court is right for you.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features the initials "JES" in green on the left and a grey scale of justice with the text "Justice Education Society" in a circular arrangement around it on the right.

Enforcing Orders (small claims court)

Small Claims BC (Justice Education Society)
Even if you win your case, there is more to do to get your money or what the judge decided you were entitled to. This website explains your options for how to collect on a judgment.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features the initials "JES" in green on the left and a grey scale of justice with the text "Justice Education Society" in a circular arrangement around it on the right.

Court Forms (small claims court)

Small Claims BC (Justice Education Society)
This section of the Small Claims BC website has forms used in a small claims case, including for mediation. The forms are in a PDF format that can be filled in and printed out. There is also an online “filing assistant” that walks you through completing some of the forms online.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo features the initials "JES" in green on the left and a grey scale of justice with the text "Justice Education Society" in a circular arrangement around it on the right.

Appeals (small claims court)

Small Claims BC (Justice Education Society)
A step-by-step guide to appealing a decision made in small claims court, which would take place in BC Supreme Court. Includes the relevant forms and the various deadlines and fees.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Your Rights to a Driver’s Licence in BC

People’s Law School
Explains what you need to do to get — and keep — your licence, including if you’re new to BC, and what it takes to lose your driver’s licence. Helps you work out problems, like if you lose your licence and want a review, or if you have to take a driver medical exam.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

If You Get a Traffic Ticket

People’s Law School
Explains your options if you get a traffic ticket. You can pay, fight the ticket, or do nothing. There are time limits to pay or to file your dispute, and if you do nothing you’ll be treated as if you pled guilty. The page explains what you need to know to dispute your ticket. It also answers common questions, and links to help.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

How to Avoid Going to Court

People’s Law School
Explains that going to court is just one way to resolve a legal problem. Other ways can be cheaper, faster, and more effective. They often require you to be more involved and willing to compromise. Topics include common alternative dispute resolution options and situations where they might fit best.
Last reviewed March 2024
Logo with six rectangles and a circle in six bright colours to represent people, and "People's Law School."

Waiving Filing Fees in Small Claims Court

People’s Law School
Explains that small claims court charges filing fees, which can be a barrier for many people. Find out how you can ask to have the fees waived, so you don’t have to pay them. It explains how the court decides whether or not to waive your fees, and the steps you need to take.
Last reviewed March 2024