Commercial claims in British Columbia are handled through the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) and the BC Provincial Court's Small Claims Division, depending on the claim amount and type.

The CRT handles claims up to $5,000, offering an online dispute resolution system accessible 24/7. This includes most consumer and business disputes, personal property disputes, and debt collection matters. The process involves negotiation, facilitation, and if necessary, adjudication by a tribunal member.

For claims between $5,001 and $35,000, the BC Provincial Court's Small Claims Division has jurisdiction. These cases typically involve monetary disputes, contract disagreements, personal property claims, and debt collection. Claims exceeding $35,000 must be filed with the BC Supreme Court, unless the claimant is willing to abandon the excess amount.

The filing process for Provincial Court claims requires completing a Notice of Claim form detailing the dispute and relief sought. After filing, the court serves the defendant, who has 14 days to respond. Mediation is mandatory for claims between $10,000 and $35,000 in most registries.

Settlement conferences are a key component, where a judge helps parties understand their cases' strengths and weaknesses, encouraging resolution before trial. If settlement isn't reached, the case proceeds to trial, where each party presents evidence and arguments before a judge.

Common types of commercial claims include:

• Contract disputes over goods or services
• Debt collection
• Construction and renovation disputes
• Commercial lease disagreements
• Professional service fee disputes

Time limitations are crucial. The basic limitation period is two years from when the claim is discovered. For debts, the limitation period typically starts from the last payment or written acknowledgment of the debt.

Businesses can represent themselves in both the CRT and Provincial Court. However, for incorporated companies in Provincial Court, legal representation is required unless the court grants permission otherwise. This differs from the CRT, where incorporated companies can self-represent.

Evidence requirements vary by forum but generally include:

• Written contracts and agreements
• Business records and correspondence
• Invoices and receipts
• Photographs and videos
• Expert reports when necessary

Cost considerations include filing fees, service fees, and potential legal representation costs. The CRT's fees start at $125 for claims up to $3,000, while Provincial Court fees begin at $100 and increase based on claim value. Successful parties may recover some costs, including filing fees and reasonable expenses.

Enforcement options for successful claims include:

• Payment hearing to examine the debtor's ability to pay
• Garnishment of wages or bank accounts
• Seizure and sale of assets
• Registration against land
• Payment schedule orders

The commercial claims system emphasizes accessible justice while maintaining procedural fairness. Alternative dispute resolution methods are encouraged throughout the process to promote efficient resolution and maintain business relationships where possible.

Recent developments include expanded online services, streamlined procedures for certain claim types, and increased monetary jurisdiction for the CRT. These changes aim to improve access to justice while reducing costs and delays in commercial dispute resolution.