Small Claims Court Matters Will Soon Be Resolved Online
Once again, residents of British Columbia will be the first to test drive judicial innovation through technology. Just as going to the bank, the mall, and the movies are rapidly becoming a thing of the past, trampling to the courthouse to endure the rigorous process of filing court papers is also heading in that direction. Small court cases under $5,000 in B.C. will soon be rectified online as of June 1, through the CRT (Civil Resolution Tribunal), Canada’s first online tribunal. It will be the first online court of justice that integrates into the public judicial system in the world.
Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton knows that all eyes are on Canada as they wade into new territory. “We’re a leader in justice innovation,” states Anton, and she is correct. In addition to hosting the first ever live town hall on Twitter last spring, B.C. residents are already resolving condominium disputes through the CRT.
It will be mandatory to file small claims disputes regarding personal injury, debts, personal property, and contracts online. Because filing will be done online, the process is more convenient; cases can be filed when it is convenient, 24-hours a day from home, at the office, or in transit. B.C. residents that do not have internet access can file small claims by telephone or mail.
It’s a win for the backlogged court system as well which will be able to attend to major cases sooner. If successful, more judicial systems will consider implementing the same technology to streamline and hasten the court process.
This article is brought to you by Julian van der Walle, criminal defence lawyer in Vernon. He primarily defends people against criminal charges of impaired driving as well as drug charges of all kinds ranging from trafficking, possession for the purposes of trafficking, and production of controlled substances. If you or someone you know has been criminally charged, it is critical to be legal represented. Contact Julian van der Walle today.
Related Stories
Is Cyberbullying a Crime You Can Be Committed of in BC, Canada?
Cyberbullying has made headlines recently, in large part due to its connection to various heart-breaking suicides and attempts. In particular, the increase in suicides among teens and millennials is often attributed to instances of cyberbullying. Suicides are...
Charged with Possession of a Narcotic in British Columbia, Canada? Understand What It Means
Under Canadian law, the Controlled Drug and Substances Act makes it illegal for anyone to possess certain narcotics. The law allows Crown Counsel to bring a criminal case against violators, which can result in criminal fines and even time in jail. Despite the...
What to Expect from Your First Experience in the Canadian Justice System and Criminal Trial
Unfortunately, the Canadian criminal justice system rarely offers a pleasant experience for the accused. If you have found yourself charged with a crime, be prepared to brace yourself for a stressful and unpleasant courtroom experience. Hiring a lawyer can...
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION
Call 1.877.212.9645
Or fill out the form below to receive a free and confidential initial consultation.