We recommend that you watch the introductory video first. It will provide you with an overview of the British Columbia court system, and this website.
To learn more about British Columbia's trial and appeal courts, select an option from the menu above.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Bail: Terms upon which the Court allows an accused to remain out of jail pending a trial. Court order may contain conditions restricting accused's liberty, and may require money or property be deposited with the Court as a guarantee the accused will return for a hearing or a trial and will abide by the conditions of release.
Bail Hearing: The process by which an accused person is released on bail pending his / her trial. See Judicial Interim Release.
Balance of Probabilities: In civil cases, the judge or jury weigh the evidence from both parties and make a decision that one side of the case is more probable then the other. See Burden of Proof or Proof Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.
Ban on Publication: An order made by the Court that prohibits the publication or broadcasting of the name of the victim or information which could disclose the identity of the victim or a witness in certain offences (mostly sexual offences), and information taken at a preliminary inquiry, bail hearing or trial.
Bankruptcy: The legal inability to pay debts.
Beyond a Reasonable Doubt: In criminal cases, the Crown has to meet a standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. The Crown must show that the evidence is so complete and convincing that the judge/jury has no reasonable doubts regarding the guilt of the accused.
Builder’s Lien: Builder’s legal claim on somebody’s property as security for a debt.
Burden of Proof: In criminal law it usually refers to the onus on the Crown to prove the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt. On the balance of probabilities is the burden of proof in civil trials. Also see Proof Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.
