Manitoba Justice
Courts
Courts in Manitoba
Manitoba's courts are divided into three main areas of responsibility although in certain instances there are shared functions. The three courts of Manitoba are the Court of Appeal, the Court of Queen’s
Bench and Provincial Court.
Jury Duty
You may become involved with our courts if you are summoned for Jury Duty in a criminal trial. To serve
on a jury is your democratic right, your civic responsibility, and a great honour. If you are
selected to serve on a jury, this site will provide you with information on your responsibilities.
Trial by
Jury
Trial by Jury is a very special type of criminal trial in which members of the community actively share
in the delivery of justice. This site provides a guide to jury procedures. It explains the jury selection
process, how the trials are conducted, the identity and roles of the courtroom officials, and the steps
taken in court to safeguard the rights of all parties.
Judicial Conduct
Provincial Court Judges hear thousands of cases every year. Judges play a crucial role in our justice
system, using their experience and the evidence presented to them to weigh complex cases and make
decisions. On occasion, you may have a problem with the conduct of a Provincial Court Judge. If you are
unhappy with a judge’s conduct, then you can launch a formal complaint.
Aboriginal Court Workers
Court Workers help people who are in contact with the law. They also work in courts to explain what
happens there, and to help the judge and Crown attorney understand the situation of the person on trial.
The Court Worker Program was started to aid persons of Aboriginal origin who come before a court, but
other people are welcome to ask for help too.
Fine Option Program
The law allows a person who has been fined to pay cash or, if unable to pay, register in the Fine Option
program. Under this program, participants perform unpaid community work equal to the value of the fine
instead of going to jail for non-payment of fines.
Applying for a Pardon
A pardon allows people who were convicted of a criminal offence, but have completed their sentence and
demonstrated they are law-abiding citizens, to have their criminal record sealed. Visit the
National Parole
Board Web site and learn more about making an application.
Small Claims
The Small Claims Court is under the jurisdiction of the Manitoba Court of Queen's Bench and
is a way to settle monetary disputes that do not exceed $10,000. You may ask to have costs
and/or interest added to your judgment at the hearing. The Small Claims Court can only award
a monetary judgment; or, in the case of a motor vehicle accident, determine liability.
Canadian Motor Vehicle
Arbitration Plan
The CANADIAN MOTOR VEHICLE ARBITRATION PLAN (CAMVAP) is a program that can assist you to
resolve disputes with an automobile manufacturer when that dispute involves vehicle defects
or warranty issues. The program gives you an opportunity to present your case before a
neutral third party (arbitrator) for resolution. CAMVAP was created in 1994, to help
consumers resolve disputes with vehicle manufacturers, in a way that is fair, fast, free,
friendly and final.
