British Columbia has introduced a virtual counter service for court registries, allowing members of the public to obtain procedural guidance, access forms, and receive basic support via video or telephone. The service is designed to centralise access to court registries, enabling staff (trained in this) to support users across different regions through a single digital queue.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernise court administration and improve access to justice by reducing reliance on in-person visits to courthouses. It is expected to be particularly beneficial for individuals in rural or remote areas, as well as those facing mobility, time, or cost barriers in accessing physical court facilities.
While the service does not provide legal advice, it may improve the usability of court processes and reduce administrative friction for self-represented litigants. The effectiveness of such initiatives will depend on sustained investment in digital infrastructure and staff training.