Area residents will soon be able take their disputes related to minor bylaw infractions, like parking tickets and noise control, to an independent adjudicator working outside the traditional courtroom.
The District of Barriere has joined more than 50 local governments using an adjudication system piloted eight years ago and offered through the Ministry of Justice.
The adjudication system saves time and money and decreases the use of court resources as it eliminates the roles of court and court registries in the administration and hearing of these disputes.
Another unique aspect of the adjudication system is that each local government determines which bylaws they want covered. For instance, some smaller communities might not have to deal with parking violations, so they can focus the system to deal with minor bylaws specific to their area.
As part of ongoing reform to the justice system, the B.C. government is increasing the number of alternative ways to resolve disputes without requiring individuals to use the courts. This can reduce stress, shorten the time required to resolve disputes, and ultimately cut costs for both the individual and taxpayer.