Skip to main content

Can I represent myself in court in BC?

Reviewed by
Sep 23, 2025

Yes. Many people represent themselves in court, especially in small claims, family, or tribunal matters. However, court rules and procedures can be complicated, so preparation is important. 

These websites from Justice Education Society (JES) provide Online Help Guides to assist people to learn about court processes, forms, and preparing for court.

  • Family Law in BC: Dedicated to family law issues such as divorce, separation, parenting, and child support. Includes practical tools like a separation agreement builder and a series of guides to help British Columbians move through separation and divorce processes.
  • SmallClaimsBC.ca: Explains the Small Claims Court process in BC, including how to start a claim, respond to one, and resolve disputes involving money or property.
  • SupremeCourtBC.ca: Provides step-by-step guidance, forms, and resources for people representing themselves in civil or family cases in the BC Supreme Court. Also includes information related to criminal law cases heard by the court.
  • CourtofAppealBC.ca: Offers information on the appeal process in BC’s highest court, including timelines, rules, forms, and tips for self-represented litigants.
  • AdminLawBC.ca: Helps people understand their rights when dealing with government agencies and tribunals, including how to make complaints, prepare for hearings and appeal decisions.

You can also learn more at BCcourts.ca and the BC Provincial Court website.

See "Which BC court will hear my case?". Use Ask JES to get answers to your legal questions.