Covid and the courts - December update

Superior Court of Justice arrangements

The Ontario Superior Court of Justice has extended the suspension of jury trials until at least January 29, 2021 in all areas of the province except Green Zones as defined by the Ontario Government. Jury trials will recommence on  Monday, February 1, 2021 at the earliest.

Jury trials currently in progress can proceed, subject to the discretion of the trial judge.

Toronto and Peel

In the lockdown regions of Toronto and Peel, new (non-jury) new matters that do proceed in-person are required to maintain a 10-person limit in each courtroom.

Matters that are in progress involving greater than 10 persons in a courtroom, may continue at the discretion of the trial judge.

Virtual Proceeding strongly encouraged In all regions

In all regions, the use of virtual proceedings is strongly encouraged wherever possible. Judges have been directed to respond to the situation with great flexibility. Counsel and parties are requested by the Chief Justrice to be accommodating when requests for virtual hearings or other arrangements are made by opposing counsel or parties.

Everyone is urged to continue to do what can be done to move matters forward, while supporting public health efforts to stabilize the situation.