Problems and disputes in New Brunswick: consumer complaints, small claims, workplace injury and legal aid

Who to contact in New Brunswick for a problem with a business, an unpaid debt, a workplace injury or when you cannot afford a lawyer.

What to do and who to contact when something goes wrong in New Brunswick. Each section gives the usual order of steps, then the official body and page. Rent disputes are on the renting page.

A problem with a business (consumer complaint)

Write to the business first, say what happened and what you want, and keep copies. If you paid by credit card you can ask the issuer about a chargeback. Then complain to the regulator.

Financial and Consumer Services Commission (FCNB). File online or by phone. The Commission handles licensing issues across several sectors but does not mediate disputes or negotiate refunds; telecom complaints go to the CCTS.

Official page: consumer complaints ↗

Money owed to you or damage caused (small claims)

Small claims court is a last resort. Send a written demand with a deadline, keep proof of delivery, and check the time limit to sue and the maximum amount in your province: both differ and have changed recently.

Small Claims Court of New Brunswick. A claim is started by filing Form 1 with the clerk, with a copy for each defendant; the claimant is responsible for serving the defendant.

Official page: small claims ↗

Hurt at work (workers' compensation)

Get medical attention, tell your employer straight away and report to the compensation board: deadlines differ by province and being late can cost you benefits. In several provinces it is illegal for an employer to ask you not to report.

WorkSafeNB. Report the accident to your employer before leaving the workplace and complete the Application for Workers' Compensation Benefits. The employer also files its own report.

Official page: report an injury ↗

You cannot afford a lawyer (legal aid)

Legal aid covers some problems only, often criminal, family and some civil matters, and uses a financial test. Duty counsel at the courthouse is often available without applying. Ask early: waiting lists exist.

New Brunswick Legal Aid Services Commission. Contact the local legal aid office for the area where you live or where the matter arose to apply or book an appointment.

Official page: apply for legal aid ↗

Scams and fraud

If you were scammed or your identity was stolen, see the step-by-step help under where to start.

Procedures only: fees, limits, forms and time limits change and differ, so each official page is the authority. General information, not legal advice; a community legal clinic can help. Quebec has its own rules: see AtlasQuébec.