Update on Court Re-openings across Ontario

Which Courts are Reopening and When?

In July, 2020, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice started hearing some in-court hearings in some court locations. More courtrooms are reopening across the province on an ongoing basis.

It is important to contact the court in your location to clarify which hearings are proceeding in person (in court) and which are not.

The courts across Ontario are following health and safety recommendations from public health officials. Details about the health and safety precautions at the courts are available at this link: Health and Safety Precautions at  Courthouses During The Coronavirus Pandemic

What If I’m Not Comfortable Attending the Courthouse During Covid-19?

Despite health and safety precautions being implemented at the courthouses across Ontario, some people may still be uncomfortable attending in person if they have underlying health conditions, or or live with someone who does, or have childcare issues arising from the pandemic.

Two Options If You Are Uncomfortable With or Unable to Attend In-Court Hearings

If you are not comfortable attending court in-person for reasons listed above, one option is to request a virtual hearing. Another option is to request that the Judge decide the matter on the basis of written materials only (a hearing “in writing”).

To request having your matter heard virtually or in writing, you will need to ask either the judge or local trial coordinator when you are requesting the hearing and before it is scheduled. If the opposing party requests or schedules the hearing in-person, immediately inform them and the trial coordinator that you are requesting the hearing virtually or in writing.