Do I have to use the CRT?

For several dispute types, yes — its jurisdiction is mandatory and you cannot elect court instead. Check before filing anywhere.

Is it really all online?

Largely yes — negotiation, facilitation and adjudication happen through an online platform, which is why it is faster and cheaper than court.

Can I bring a lawyer?

Representation is generally restricted, consistent with the tribunal's self-representation design, though exceptions exist. Check the current rules.

Does it handle car accident injuries?

It determines defined issues under BC's no-fault scheme, including minor injury and benefit entitlement questions.

Civil Resolution Tribunal BC — Small Claims, Strata & Injury Disputes

Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT)

The CRT is Canada's first online civil tribunal, and for several dispute types it is mandatory rather than optional — you cannot simply choose court instead. It handles small claims within a monetary limit, strata property disputes, society and cooperative matters, and determinations in motor vehicle injury claims under BC's no-fault scheme. The process is designed to be used without a lawyer.

What it does

Resolves small claims disputes online within its monetary limit
Decides strata property disputes including bylaws, fees and repairs
Determines entitlement issues in motor vehicle injury claims
Hears society and cooperative association disputes

Matters it hears

Debt and damages claims within the limit
Strata bylaw enforcement, fines and common property
Motor vehicle accident benefit and minor injury determinations
Society and cooperative governance disputes

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Supreme Court of British Columbia.

CRT decisions are generally final, with judicial review in the Supreme Court of BC on limited grounds. Some decisions allow a notice of objection instead.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use the CRT?: For several dispute types, yes — its jurisdiction is mandatory and you cannot elect court instead. Check before filing anywhere.
Is it really all online?: Largely yes — negotiation, facilitation and adjudication happen through an online platform, which is why it is faster and cheaper than court.
Can I bring a lawyer?: Representation is generally restricted, consistent with the tribunal's self-representation design, though exceptions exist. Check the current rules.
Does it handle car accident injuries?: It determines defined issues under BC's no-fault scheme, including minor injury and benefit entitlement questions.

Need a lawyer for a matter before the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT)?

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT). Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.