What It Takes to Modernize B.C.’s Courts

When going to court is too costly or delayed proceedings cause undue stress, the public loses confidence in the justice system. But our courts have the power to rebuild that trust by making their services timely and accessible.

On behalf of the Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch, President Lee Nevens spoke at the provincial government's 2026 budget consultations, asking the Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services to invest in strengthening our courts.

This recommendation is threefold. B.C. must provide funding for 1) technology to improve court service delivery, 2) support Indigenous Courts, and 3) expand the Provincial Court Early Resolution process provincewide.

These requests align with Attorney General Niki Sharma’s positive response to CBABC’s Agenda for Justice 2025, in which she indicated support for court modernization initiatives.

Technology to Improve Court Services

British Columbians should be able to file their documents or appear before the court regardless of their income or how far they live from the court.

Nevens asked the government to help speed up the implementation of the Court Digital Transformation Strategy, a joint effort across all levels of court in B.C. and the Ministry of Attorney General to use technology and make court interactions more accessible and convenient for all British Columbians.

Put simply, the province must invest in technology. Our courts need an online booking system for hearing dates, improved hardware such as microphones, cameras and computers, upgrades to the online filing system, and WiFi availability in all courthouse areas. 

Doing so will make the justice system easier to navigate and reduce costly delays for British Columbians. We are pleased to see the recent Supreme Court announcement outlining the expansion of the Associate Judges Chambers Pilot to allow some electronic applications, as well as virtual options for those appearing in applications under 30 minutes.

Indigenous Courts

British Columbia’s nine Indigenous Courts are tailored to respond to the needs of Indigenous communities. These Courts support rehabilitation, with the aim of reducing reoffending and repairing harm done to victims.

In these hearings, offenders sit in a circle with the judge, prosecutor, defence counsel, Elders and support people.

To keep this approach going, Indigenous Courts need consistent support. Elders play a central role, yet time constraints make it difficult for them to attend. Funding for training on court processes and increased compensation that recognizes Elders’ time and contributions would help strengthen the system.

Many communities also need more Indigenous Court sittings, especially in areas with bigger populations. Otherwise, it is difficult for cases to move forward in a timely manner. With the right support, Indigenous Courts can continue to offer a path to justice that upholds respect for Indigenous peoples.

As part of our continued advocacy, CBABC is working on a submission to shape the Supreme Court's role in advancing Reconciliation.

Early Resolution Process

The Early Resolution Process offers legal guidance to families dealing with matters like separation and child support before they file applications with the Provincial Court.

Since its 2020 pilot, the process has helped families access early legal support, explore their options and reach agreements without resorting to litigation. Doing so reduces conflict for families and helps minimize delays in the broader court system.

Nevens called on the government to fully fund the approved expansion of the Early Resolution Process across more court registries in B.C., ensuring more families can benefit from early legal support.