Law360 Canada (September 14, 2026, 5:00 PM EDT) -- New rules are coming to the B.C. Supreme Court for civil and family applications, creating more opportunities for disputes to be resolved earlier without going to court. The changes will take effect Oct. 1.

Starting next month, the person who brings an application will share their materials with the other side, who will then have time to respond before a hearing date is booked.

“When people are dealing with a family or civil dispute, they want a process that is fair, clear and helps resolve issues as early as possible,” said Attorney General Niki Sharma in a Sept. 14 statement.

“These changes encourage people to exchange information sooner, giving them a better opportunity to understand each other’s position, narrow the issues and, where possible, reach a resolution without a court hearing,” she said.

“That means less delay, less stress and more court time available for matters that require a judicial decision.”

One of the most common applications in civil and family cases are chambers applications, used when the court needs to decide an issue before trial, often on a temporary basis. This can include parenting arrangements, property disputes, child support or money owed.

Under the current process, parties first file documents with the court before sharing them with the other side. That order will change come October.

The new “serve, then file” process will require the person applying to share their materials with the other side and give the other side time to review and respond, which may allow the matter to be resolved through that exchange.

If it is not resolved, a hearing date will be scheduled. Materials will then be filed with the court as per established timelines.

“These changes were recommended by the Supreme Court Civil and Family Rules Committee based on feedback from people who use the courts,” the province stated, adding that the committee advises the attorney general on issues affecting access to justice.

“Supporting materials are available to help people representing themselves and lawyers understand the new process and prepare before the changes take effect.”

The process changes when information is exchanged, giving each side more opportunity to understand the other’s side before booking a hearing.

Those involved in civil or family matters will have more time to review materials, seek advice and prepare a response before a hearing date is set. Issues may be narrowed before a hearing, allowing court time to focus on matters that remain in dispute.

“The changes will not only encourage people to resolve issues earlier and at lower cost, but are also expected to reduce unnecessary hearings and adjournments, freeing court time to hear other important matters,” the province said.

Those in the province can access support with the new process through the government’s free Virtual Counter, which connects them with court registry staff by video or phone for help navigating the court system.

Free help and information about court forms and processes are also available at court registries, Justice Access Centres and public legal-education organizations, the province added.

The changes are part of the province’s work to improve access to justice in B.C. by “helping resolve appropriate disputes earlier and ensuring court time is focused on matters that require judicial determination.”

The province noted the changes do not apply to provincial court or criminal matters.

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