The reduction of out-of-custody trials and preliminary inquiries has been extended to May 21. However, starting May 10, virtual out of custody trials and preliminary inquiries may proceed.
The reduction of out-of-custody trials and preliminary inquiries has been extended to May 21. However, starting May 10, virtual out of custody trials and preliminary inquiries may proceed.
In light of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases and its impact on hospital resources, and in order to reduce the number of people (including parties, counsel and court staff) who must leave their home to attend court proceedings, the Ontario Court of Justice is reducing the number of criminal trials and preliminary inquiries involving out-of-custody accused persons scheduled between Monday April 26, 2021 and Friday May 21, 2021:
- Between April 26 and May 7, 2021: All criminal trials and preliminary inquiries involving out-of-custody accused persons will be adjourned, subject to a judge seized with a continuing matter ordering otherwise. This applies to both in-person and virtual trials and preliminary inquiries.
- Between May 10 and May 21, 2021: All in person criminal trials and preliminary inquiries involving out-of-custody accused persons will be adjourned, subject to a judge seized with a continuing matter ordering otherwise. Virtual criminal trials and preliminary inquiries involving out-of-custody accused persons may proceed. Virtual hearings are hearings in which all participants appear using remote technology other than court staff (if required to attend in person) or the presiding judge (who may attend in person).
Other criminal matters involving out of custody accused persons, such as case management appearances, pleas/resolutions and judicial pre-trials, may proceed as scheduled. All criminal matters involving accused persons who are in custody, including trials and preliminary inquiries, may proceed as scheduled.
For further details please see the Notice