The Supreme Court of British Columbia has taken another clear step toward modernizing the justice system by expanding virtual hearings across civil and family law matters.
This is not a minor procedural tweak. It is a signal.
Courts are deciding, in real time, what the future of litigation looks like.
What Changed in British Columbia
Effective spring 2026, British Columbia is moving further toward a default virtual model for key court appearances.
- Case planning conferences and judicial management conferences will now be attended by video by default
- Short applications (typically under 30 minutes) can be heard in virtual chambers before associate judges
- Electronic filing and submission of materials is being expanded to support this shift
- Courts will still retain discretion, with fairness and access to justice as guiding principles
The stated goals are straightforward:
- Improve efficiency
- Reduce costs
- Increase access to justice
- Better allocate judicial resources
In other words, this is not temporary. It is structural.
This Is Part of a Bigger Trend
This move does not stand alone.
British Columbia has been steadily modernizing its court system:
- Online booking for hearings across the province
- Virtual registry services and remote assistance
- Expanded use of video for conferences and pre-trial management
The direction is clear: less physical court, more digital court.
Why This Matters for Family Law
Family law is uniquely suited for virtual processes.
Virtual hearings:
- Reduce cost and travel for parties
- Minimize time away from work and family
- Lower stress, particularly in high-conflict cases
- Allow parties to avoid being in the same physical space
For many clients, especially those dealing with separation, parenting disputes, or domestic conflict, this is not just convenient. It is better.
Courts themselves recognize that virtual processes can improve participation and reduce barriers, particularly for vulnerable individuals
The Key Tension: Efficiency vs. Fairness
The court has been clear that virtual is not automatic in every situation.
Judges will still consider:
- The right to a fair hearing
- The nature of the issue
- The complexity of the matter
- Whether credibility is in issue
That balance matters.
Some hearings should remain in person. Trials involving credibility, for example, are not ideal over video.
But routine appearances? Case conferences? Short applications?
There is no reason those should require a physical courtroom.
The Ontario Question
This is where things get uncomfortable.
Ontario has taken a more inconsistent approach to virtual hearings, particularly in family law. Some regions and judges embrace it. Others are pushing matters back into courtrooms.
That creates:
- Uncertainty for lawyers and clients
- Increased costs
- Delays and inefficiencies
British Columbia is doing the opposite. It is setting a clear default, with flexibility layered on top.
That is a better model.
What Comes Next
The shift toward virtual hearings is not about technology. It is about expectations.
Clients now expect:
- Faster service
- Lower cost
- Less disruption to their lives
Courts that meet those expectations will remain relevant.
Those that do not will face increasing pressure from litigants, lawyers, and policymakers.
Final Thought
British Columbia is not experimenting anymore. It is committing.
The real question is whether other jurisdictions, including Ontario, will follow with the same clarity and confidence.
Because the direction is obvious.
The only debate left is how fast the rest of the system catches up.
If you are navigating a family law matter and want to understand how court processes, virtual hearings, and evolving procedures may affect your case, our team is here to help.
