Going to court: accessibility

Each courthouse in B.C. has an accessibility coordinator who can assist with navigating the courthouse. They can help by identifying accessible facilities and other accommodations, such as equipment or services, that are available when you visit the courthouse in-person. Types of features an accessibility coordinator can assist with include visual interpreters, assistive listening devices, real-time interpretation, accessible parking, and service animal requests. The accessibility coordinator can also provide information about court registry services that may be available by internet, phone or email.

When requesting accessibility accommodation, the following information is helpful:

• court address
• court file number
• your role (for example, party, legal counsel, witness, or member of the public)
• date and time of any court proceedings and type of proceeding (for example, hearing, case conference, trial, or appeal)
• any known deadlines for filing documents
• the type of accommodation you need to use court services or participate in the court proceeding

In some cases, the accessibility coordinator may need to ask for further information. If you are not sure about what kind of accommodation you require, you can discuss the barriers you face with the accessibility coordinator. Please contact the accessibility coordinator as far in advance of your court proceeding date as possible by email or phone 250-356-1550.

NOTE: The judiciary has the exclusive authority to make decisions about what happens in a courtroom. Requests for procedural accommodations during the court proceeding (i.e. additional breaks, permission to record proceedings, permission to use a support person, etc) must be directed to the judge, justice, master, or registrar for your court matter. Court Services Branch is unable to provide legal advice. Individuals requesting in-court accommodations are encouraged to speak with legal counsel regarding the process that must be followed to obtain approval from the judiciary.