| IMPORTANT NOTICE
This notice has been superseded by Notice to the Profession and Public Regarding Court Proceedings (November 21, 2020) |
On November 5, 2020 this Court announced that jury selection and new jury trials would resume in Brampton and Toronto as of November 16, 2020. Unfortunately, the public health situation has deteriorated since that time in Brampton and Toronto.
As a result, new jury selection and new jury trials will not resume on November 16, 2020 in Brampton and Toronto. New jury proceedings are suspended until at least November 30, 2020. A further update will be provided no later than November 25, 2020.
This notice also suspends new jury selection and new jury trials in Milton and Orangeville as those court locations had been using the Pearson Centre in Brampton for jury selection.
Jury trials currently in progress can proceed, subject to the decision of the trial judge.
I recognize that some counsel, parties and justice participants may be uncomfortable attending a courthouse during this time. Some may have underlying health conditions, or live with someone who does, or have other issues arising from the pandemic.
In view of the public health situation in Peel and Toronto, the Court must respond with great flexibility. I have encouraged all judicial officers, when exercising their authority, to be flexible and to respect the various reasons why an individual may not be comfortable attending a courthouse in person. The feasibility of a virtual hearing or alternate arrangements is to be explored, when requested. Similarly, I encourage counsel and parties to be accommodating when requests for virtual hearings or other arrangements are made by opposing counsel or parties.
This notice does not affect in-person non-jury matters which will continue to be heard.
We must continue to do what we can to move matters forward while supporting public health efforts to stabilize the situation.
Geoffrey B. Morawetz
Chief Justice
Ontario Superior Court of Justice