What is the deadline?

Generally one year from the last incident of discrimination. Late complaints are accepted only in limited circumstances.

Do I go through a commission first?

No. You file directly with the Tribunal in BC.

Is free help available?

Yes — BC's Human Rights Clinic provides free assistance to complainants.

Can I claim here and sue as well?

Pursuing the same discrimination in both forums is restricted. Get advice on sequencing before filing either.

BC Human Rights Tribunal — Discrimination Complaints

BC Human Rights Tribunal

The BC Human Rights Tribunal decides discrimination complaints under the BC Human Rights Code. You file directly with the Tribunal — there is no commission screening individual complaints — and the deadline is generally one year from the last incident, far shorter than ordinary civil limitation periods.

What it does

Decides complaints of discrimination under the Code
Orders compensation including for injury to dignity
Offers mediation before hearings
Can order systemic and policy remedies

Matters it hears

Discrimination in employment, tenancy and services
Failure to accommodate disability or family status
Harassment on a protected ground
Retaliation for filing a complaint

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Supreme Court of British Columbia.

Decisions are final, subject to judicial review in the Supreme Court of BC on limited grounds.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline?: Generally one year from the last incident of discrimination. Late complaints are accepted only in limited circumstances.
Do I go through a commission first?: No. You file directly with the Tribunal in BC.
Is free help available?: Yes — BC's Human Rights Clinic provides free assistance to complainants.
Can I claim here and sue as well?: Pursuing the same discrimination in both forums is restricted. Get advice on sequencing before filing either.

Need a lawyer for a matter before the BC Human Rights Tribunal?

We are not affiliated with this court. Tell us about your matter and we will help you find relevant representation.

General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with BC Human Rights Tribunal. Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.