We are all changing and updating the way we do things as we
adjust to the "new normal" of the pandemic. Courts,
lawyers and litigants are no exception. Like all Canadians, jurists
have had to modify their processes almost overnight while still
ensuring that Canadians have adequate access to justice.
As with many public institutions, there was an immediate
response to the lockdown – hearings were postponed (with the
exception of some urgent matters that were moved to virtual
hearings), limitations periods were suspended and document filing
was only done online. Although these were intended as temporary
measures, most are likely here to stay. They have proven to be
convenient and expedient processes and procedures.
