(Information current as of April 8, 2020)
The novel coronavirus has created unprecedented circumstances, worldwide. This has unsurprisingly meant that we have had to adjust our services, out of safety to ourselves, our staff, and the public. This is also in cooperation with the courts.
For the time being, we will not be offering any in-person services. However, we can continue to be reached via telephone and email, as usual. Appointments can be set up by phone or video conference, as needed.
With respect to in-court services, the priority for the courts is ensuring that people do not remain in custody unnecessarily. The following directives have been issued by the courts in Ontario:
- Court of Appeal: in-person appearances and most appeal hearings have been cancelled through the end of May 2020.
- Superior Court of Justice: all courts are closed through the end of May 2020. Matters scheduled in March, April, and May are adjourned to June 2, 3, and 4, respectively to be rescheduled. Bail reviews and some non-trial matters will still be heard, but by remote hearing.
- Ontario Court of Justice: all non-urgent out-of-custody matters through the end of May 2020 are currently being remanded administratively for 10 weeks. All trials and preliminary hearings (with very limited exceptions) during this time period are cancelled, to be rescheduled at a later date. Remote bail courts are running and remote plea courts are dealing with in-custody and time sensitive matters, only.
We are continuing to keep the lines of communication open with our clients, both in and out of custody. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time with questions or concerns about anything. This is a stressful time for everyone, and we are continuing to do everything in our power to help.
While out of court, we will be taking advantage of much needed preparation time for upcoming trials and appeals.
