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Other dispute resolution options

Last updated on September 5, 2024

In addition to mediation services, we may refer you to other ways of resolving disputes.

On this page

Private mediators

Mediators in private practice in the community can help with many types of disputes. If you have a civil or family dispute and are not eligible for free mediation services, we can help you find one from organizations such as the  Alternate Dispute Resolution Institute of BC, Family Mediation Canada or the Lawyer Referral Service.

Notice to mediate

Even if you are already involved in the process of going to court, you may want to try mediation. In some B.C. Supreme Court matters, you can use a "notice to mediate" to require all other people involved in your dispute to attend one mediation session. We can help you consider whether mediation might be appropriate and help you start this process, which is available for a wide range of civil law matters as well as family law proceedings in the B.C. Supreme Court.

Collaborative Law

We may refer you to a private lawyer who does collaborative law. In a collaborative law process, you, your lawyer, the other person involved and their lawyer formally agree to solving your disagreements outside of the court process in an atmosphere of trust and co-operation. The goal of a collaborative lawyer is to settle your case fairly through constructive problem solving, without going to court. If the process does not work, the lawyers must withdraw from the case.

See Reaching Agreement for more information.

Links

  • Clicklaw provides user friendly, searchable access to key legal information, education and help for British Columbians. If you have a legal problem, are looking for legal help, want to learn about the law, or are interested in law reform, Clicklaw can help you find answers to your questions
  • The Family Law in B.C. website has a wide range of family law information in a variety of formats
  • The Family Justice website contains general information on family justice for people who are experiencing marital breakup or are divorced or separated
  • The Families Change website is designed to help children and teens understand separation and divorce. It also has resources to help parents support their children
  • Changeville is an animated, interactive website designed to help B.C. kids six to 12 whose parents are going through divorce or separation. The website can be used by kids alone or with a parent’s help
  • The Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of British Columbia (ADRBC) provides information about mediation and other dispute resolution processes. ADRBC keeps lists of mediators and other dispute resolution professionals who meet specific education, training and experience requirements
  • See the About Mediation webpage
  • You can find a private mediator through the Canadian Bar Association (CBA) alternative dispute resolution sub-section.  Contact the CBA for a referral