Different Levels of Court

Before a lawsuit can be started it is crucial to know where to begin. Jurisdiction refers to geographic location (like British Columbia or Alberta) and to the different levels of Court. A claim or application must be brought in the appropriate jurisdiction or the client may be disappointed to find the decision-maker does not have the power to grant his or her request. For example, a divorce cannot be granted by a Provincial Court Judge as it is in the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. The primary levels in British Columbia are the Provincial Court and Supreme Court. Above these is the Court of Appeal. Higher still is the Supreme Court of Canada. There are also specialized Courts like Tax Court and Small Claims Court.