Legal system
A legal system is the set of laws, courts, tribunals and institutions through which a society makes, interprets and enforces law. Canada's system is based on common law in every province except Quebec, which uses civil law for private matters, with both federal and provincial levels of law.
How BC law treats it
BC's courts are the Provincial Court, the Supreme Court of British Columbia and the Court of Appeal, with final appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada. Many disputes go to administrative tribunals such as the Civil Resolution Tribunal and the Employment Standards Tribunal.
What it means for your business
Knowing which court or tribunal has jurisdiction helps a BC business choose the right forum for a dispute.
Risks and common mistakes
Starting a claim in the wrong forum can waste time and costs, and risk a limitation period expiring.
Browse the full Fulcrum Law Dictionary for related terms.
General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.
