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Effective June 8, 2020, Chief Justice Hinkson directs that chambers applications, other than short leave applications, estimated for 2 hours or less may resume by telephone in accordance with the procedures set out in this Notice."

The Court is now preparing to resume trial management conferences and civil and family trials.

The Court is resuming some operations. This notice sets out what matters will be phased in over the coming weeks and what matters continue to be adjourned.

An order-in-council published Monday, June 1, 2020, will repeal and replace the provincial court family rules and improve how British Columbia families can resolve their legal issues in family court.

The Canadian Bar Association is deeply disturbed by the videotaped killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis and other recent incidents of anti-black violence in the United States and Canada. The CBA stands in solidarity with those who have peacefully protested police brutality and demanded justice and accountability.

2020 will be the auction's best year ever only because we carried on!

“COVID-19 has brought unprecedented challenges for court users and justice sector partners,” said David Eby, Attorney General. “Working with the judiciary, we are assessing courthouses to determine the best approach to protect the health of court users. Each courthouse is different, but this might mean measures such as marking floors to indicate distances in lines at registry, elevators, washrooms and inside courtrooms, and disinfecting courtrooms after use.”

A national task force, co-led by Chief Justice of Canada Richard Wagner and federal Justice Minister David Lametti, has devised some initial guidelines, and identified overarching principles, to help local courts safely and appropriately resume their operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Open accessible courts are fundamental to our democracy. The rule of law depends on it. However, the public, litigants, court staff, court participants, counsel, judges and the media need to know that when they come to court they will be safe."

Under the Queen's Counsel Act, the Lieutenant-Governor in Council, on the recommendation of the Attorney General, may bestow on lawyers in British Columbia the honorary title of Queen's Counsel (QC) to recognize exceptional merit and contribution to the legal profession. To make this appointment process more transparent and accessible, the Ministry of Attorney General has a formal system for nominating candidates.