
Coronavirus update
All First Nations/Indigenous Courts matters will remain on the date scheduled unless otherwise notified by the court. The court anticipates hearing these matters by audioconference or videoconference without the participants attending court in-person until further notice.
See the Provincial Court’s COVID-19 page for up-to-date information.
If you identify as Aboriginal and you plead guilty to a crime, you might be able to have your bail or sentencing hearing in one of BC's First Nations/Indigenous Courts. You might be brought into a First Nations/Indigenous Court by referral from a judge, defense lawyer, or Crown lawyer. Or you can request to go to First Nations/Indigenous Court. It’s your choice to have your matter heard in First Nations/Indigenous Court. Talk to your lawyer or First Nations/Indigenous Court duty counsel about what’s best for you.
First Nations/Indigenous Courts are criminal sentencing courts that use restorative justice and traditional ways to reach balance and healing. BC's First Nations/Indigenous Courts are often called Gladue courts.
First Nations/Indigenous Courts focus on balancing rehabilitation, accountability, and healing. With the advice of Elders and your community, the judge creates a healing plan to help restore your mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health.
You might still be sentenced to jail. If you're sentenced to jail, the judge must still consider your unique circumstances in their decision.
Aboriginal community legal workers — Give legal information and limited advice services
Legal information outreach workers — Give legal information and make referrals
First Nations Court duty counsel — Give free legal advice about having your case transferred to First Nations Court and the charges against you