BC court registries: where you file family-court papers
A court registry is the court office that receives and files court documents. Registry staff can explain court procedure and tell you which forms are required, but they cannot tell you what position to take, what evidence to use, or what a judge is likely to decide.
What does “file it at the registry” mean?
Filing means giving your completed court document to the court office so it can become part of the court file. Depending on the form and location, filing may be in person, by mail, by fax or electronically. The registry can tell you what that location accepts.
The registry is not your lawyer. Staff can explain procedure, filing requirements, fees and scheduling. They cannot give legal advice, choose your arguments or tell you what to write to win your case.
Do I need a notary?
Not for every court form. Forms such as Form 1 are not affidavits and do not need to be notarized. But if a document says it must be sworn or affirmed—for example, an affidavit—do not sign it ahead of time.
BC’s official affidavit guide says Provincial Court registry staff who are commissioners can swear or affirm a court affidavit for free. Bring photo ID and any exhibits. A private lawyer or notary can also do it; posted private prices vary, with current examples around $45–$50 for a basic affidavit/notarization, so confirm the price before booking.
Official BC affidavit guide · Official BC courthouse directory
Staffed BC registries for Provincial Court family filings
The Province says staffed registries are normally open 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday to Friday, except listed holidays. Circuit court locations do not accept filing on ordinary days; their documents are filed through the staffed registry that serves them. Always confirm the correct registry for your case before travelling.
Golden
Temporary court location: 1104 9th St. South, Golden, BC; mailing: Box 1500, 837 Park Drive, Golden, BC V0A 1H0
Registry: 250-344-7581
Not sure which registry is yours?
If children are involved, the filing location is usually tied to where the children live most of the time. Existing files and special orders can change the answer. Use the official directory or call the registry before filing.
Open the official BC courthouse directory · BC Provincial Court: getting ready for family court