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Home/Law, crime and justice/Criminal justice/B.C.'s criminal justice system/Understanding criminal justice/How the criminal justice system works/Court hearings

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  • How the criminal justice system works
    • A crime is committed
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      • Testifying in court
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Court hearings

Last updated on March 19, 2026

This section provides information about court hearings. Whether you are going to court as a victim, witness, adult accused, youth accused, adult offender, youth offender, family member or juror, knowing what to expect may make the experience easier. This section will explain what happens at court hearings, including the trial, and how to prepare.

  • Requests to appear in court
  • Court appearances before the trial
  • The trial
  • Testifying in court
  • Preparing for court
  • Courtroom layout
  • People in court
  • Courtroom conduct
  • Court support

Related links

  • Clicklaw 
  • Justice Education Society 
  • Legal Aid BC 
Jury duty

A jury is a group of people who decide if an accused person in a criminal trial is guilty or if a claim in a civil trial has been proven. Learn more about jury duty.

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The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.

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