Walk in organised and confident. Tick off each item as you prepare — the checklist saves your progress as you go.
Walk In Like You've Done This Before
Even one session with a lawyer before your hearing can make a significant difference. We offer limited-scope consultations so you pay only for the help you need.
Separation Checklist and Estate Planning Checklist are also available.
Government-issued photo ID (driver's licence or passport)
Your court file number (printed at the top of your filed documents)
All filed court documents — originals and copies (one for you, one for the other party, one for the judge)
Affidavits or sworn statements you or witnesses have filed
Proof of service — showing that you properly served the other side
Correspondence from the court registry confirming your court date and time
Financial Statement (Form F8 in BC Supreme Court, or equivalent) if required
Last 3 years of income tax returns and Notices of Assessment
Business financial statements if self-employed or a business owner
Parenting schedule log or calendar showing existing arrangements
School or medical records relevant to your children's needs
Reports from counsellors, teachers, or doctors (if filed or ordered)
Any record of communications with the other parent (texts, emails) if relevant
Daycare or activity receipts relevant to section 7 (special/extraordinary) expenses
ORGANISED binder or folder — tab your documents for quick access
Phone charger (but silence your phone before entering)
Transit card or parking cash — arrive at least 30 minutes early
Snacks if it may be a long day (eat before entering the courtroom)
Dress neatly and conservatively — business casual is a safe choice
Avoid strong perfume or cologne (courtrooms are enclosed spaces)
Stand when the judge enters and leaves the courtroom
Turn off or silence all devices before entering the courtroom
Let your lawyer know your cell number in case of last-minute changes
Arrange childcare — children should not attend court hearings
Tell your support person to wait outside the courtroom unless told otherwise
Check BC Court Services Online the day before to confirm your courtroom number
Know the courthouse address and allow extra travel time
Bring cash for parking meters or a transit card — many courthouses don't have paid parking nearby
Security lines and finding the right courtroom take longer than expected. Judges notice — and remember — who is late.
Bring at least 3 sets of every document: one for you, one for the other side, one for the judge. Registrars may need one too.
A well-organized binder lets you find documents instantly. Label each tab with the document name and date. You don't want to be shuffling papers in front of a judge.
Every communication with the court, every document you hand up, every request you make — starts with your file number. Have it memorized or written at the top of your notepad.
Most BC courthouses have a daily cause list on a board near the entrance. It lists courtroom assignments for the day — confirm yours before going upstairs.
What to Bring to Court BC — Court Day Checklist | Sea to Sky Law
Preparing for court in BC? Our free court day checklist covers documents, financial records, what to wear to family court, and practical tips for BC Supreme Court and Provincial Court.
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