How B.C. Citizens are Affected by Court Closures and Other Stories
Each month, Spraggs Law publishes Vancouver Legal News, a curated selection of articles about legal issues being discussed in the news. This month we start off with stories about COVID-related court closures, tenant and landlord tensions, and the awareness of systemic and workplace racism in British Columbia.
Court Closures Protect Judges, But at What Cost to Victims and The Accused?
While some public-facing services remain open, British Columbia’s courts largely remain closed, resulting in longer-than-usual wait times for cases to be heard and trials to commence. While the pandemic-inspired court closures are intended to protect judges and other court staff, the outcome denies many citizens the opportunity for a fair trial and access to justice.
Home is Becoming a Safe Haven Afforded by Few
How Vancouver’s housing crisis, compounded by lost wages, poor landlord relations and other COVID-related issues, has left many B.C. renters in a crisis, with some seeking help in small claims court.
Bonus Link:
Legal Imbroglio Over Windows, Doors, Divides James Bay Leaseholders; They Face $1M in Fees
Rent Relief Tensions Rise Between Small Business Tenants and Commercial Landlords
Tensions are building between small business tenants and their landlords. Some commercial tenants are on the hook for 100% of their rent despite COVID-related closures and reduced hours because some landlords refuse to apply for government help. Small business owners want the federal government to step in and do more to help.
How One Vancouver-Based Retail Chain is Working to Improve Workplace Equality and Address Systemic Racism in B.C.
As results of a recent B.C. poll revealed that racism remains an issue for local law enforcers and employers, a former retail manager in Vancouver says that she was subjected to unfair treatment based on her race, even though she didn’t experience what she referred to as “overt racism.” Popular Vancouver-based clothing chain Aritzia responded to her complaint with a plan of how the retailer intends to establish a more fair and inclusive workplace culture.
What Do You Think?
What do you think about these stories? If you have any questions or suggestions for us, we’d love to hear from you. Contact one of our lawyers in Vancouver today.
Please note: This article does not contain legal advice. If you would like advice on your specific situation, please contact Spraggs Law.
