What Is a Judicial Case Conference (JCC)?

We are often asked, “what is a Judicial Case Conference and what happens at it?” Simply put, a Judicial Case Conference (“JCC”) is a private, informal meeting with a judge designed to help parties in Supreme Court of British Columbia family law proceedings explore options for resolving issues early on. 

Who Must Attend a JCC?

Unless an exemption is granted, the parties must attend the JCC. Their lawyers may attend with them. 

What Can Happen at a JCC? 

At a JCC, the judge may make the following orders:

1. Consent orders, which requires agreement from both parties, and
2. Procedural orders, which moves the court process along. 

Additionally, the judge may:

1. Refer the parties to a family justice counsellor, and
2. Direct a party to participate in the Parenting After Separation Program operated by the Family Justice Services Division. 

What Cannot Happen at a JCC? 

At a JCC, the judge cannot make any substantive orders unless both parties provide their consent. Some examples of substantive orders are: 

• Child support orders;
• Spousal support orders;
• Parenting time or parenting responsibility orders;
• Property division or property sale orders; or 
• Interim distributions of family property.

If there is no agreement at the JCC, these types of orders must be dealt with through further court processes, such as a chambers application or trial.If you have questions about the JCC process or need assistance with your family law case, our experienced family law team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help.

Shanna Kean is a family lawyer at Entrust Law Corporation, practicing in Kelowna, B.C. She helps clients navigate separation, divorce, parenting arrangements, and other family law matters with clarity and compassion.

To learn more, visit https://www.entrustlaw.ca/our-team/shanna-kean/