Category: The broader context

Online Dispute Resolution in BC: Case Study #1

The broader context

Intro | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3a | Part 3b

Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) is joining the legal landscape in BC, but many people–even some lawyers–are unfamiliar with its processes. We are covering the emergence and expansion of ODR in BC in a series of blog posts. (See our introduction here.)

In recent ODR-related news, the Civil Resolution Tribunal or “CRT” (which we discussed in our first post) has appointed 18 tribunal members. They will hear strata property and small claims cases, and will be able to make decisions that are binding and enforceable like court orders. You can read the press release from the CRT and BC Ministry of Justice here.

CPBC_Logo

In today’s post we focus on Consumer Protection BC’s ODR platform, a neutral online space where people can settle disputes with businesses, without going to court.

Click to view full infographic
Click to view full infographic

We created an infographic (below, right) which provides a snapshot of the process, from start to finish.

We tested the ODR tool ourselves, giving you an inside peek into the process, with screen captures to provide visual context.

Important note: the steps we took here are not exhaustive of the ways that you can resolve a dispute using ODR.

step01Create an account.  When you start a new dispute you will be asked questions regarding the nature of your complaint.

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But wait, there’s more!

Make-a-Will Week – Resources

Get help using Clicklaw, The broader context

Wills are rarely a hot conversation topic, but they are essential tools for responsible planning and are now applicable to persons considered “mentally capable” and 16 or older in BC.

Completing a will is usually a relief.  If you have been thinking about a will for yourself or if you have family members who have yet to take that step, the next few weeks are an excellent time to start.

April 6 to 12 is Make-a-Will Week in BC
April 6 to 12 is Make-a-Will Week in BC

Note: If you have a very small estate (little to no assets), making a will may not be necessary. However, it is a good idea to seek legal advice about this.

April 6 to 12 is Make-a-Will Week, and a number of organizations and legal professionals are coming together to donate their time and effort to help people write their will or bring an existing will up to date.

At the Wills Resources page on the Courthouse Libraries BC website, there are lists of wills-related resources for everyone—from lawyers to people who aren’t familiar with the law:

  • print resources (texts) available at select Courthouse Libraries BC branches or through the Lawyers’ Reading Room,
  • online resources available through Clicklaw and other websites,
  • people and organizations that can help, and
  • informational events available to the public for the month of April.

This page will be updated with new resources and events at least for the month of Make-a-Will Week. The PDFs are printable and shareable.

If you would like to make a suggestion for a resource, please email us.

Want to share the Wills Resources page? Use this short redirect URL: http://bit.ly/CLBCwills

Photo credit: Freepik