Understanding the Judicial Case Conference (JCC) process in British Columbia is essential for navigating family law matters. Lawyers Darren Schmidt and Ean Ross of Kidston Helm Ross Lawyers break down key insights about JCCs in a two-part Legal Brief on Instagram.
What is a Judicial Case Conference?
A JCC is a mediation step in family law proceedings, providing an opportunity for parties to discuss issues, explore settlement options, and receive guidance before moving forward with a trial.
Watch the Legal Brief to learn more:
Judicial Case Conferences (JCC) Explained
A Judicial Case Conference (JCC) is a mediation meeting where both sides in a divorce or separation come together to discuss important issues like parenting arrangements, child support, spousal support, and division of assets and debts. The goal is to find common ground and, ideally, settle the case.
Both parties must agree to a JCC, but even if a full agreement isn’t reached, it’s a great way to identify key issues and make progress. This step helps move the legal process forward and can save time and stress down the road.
Preparing for a Judicial Case Conference (JCC)
Before attending a Judicial Case Conference (JCC), both parties need to file key documents to outline their positions on important issues like parenting arrangements, support payments, and property division.
Filing the Claim: The process starts when one person submits a Notice of Family Claim, stating what they want in the separation or divorce. The other party then files a response, and sometimes a counterclaim, to outline their position.
Timing: The JCC typically takes place a few months after the initial claim is filed, depending on court availability.
Required Documents: To attend, both parties must file their financial documents at least seven days before the JCC, along with their pleadings (the claim, response, and any counterclaims).
Once these steps are completed, the JCC can proceed, giving both sides a chance to discuss and work toward resolving their issues. If no full agreement is reached, the legal process continues.
For personalized legal advice, contact Kidston Helm Ross Lawyers.
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