What happened: The Supreme Court of British Columbia has extended its suspension of regular operations until May 29.
Why it matters: Since March 19, the court has been hearing only urgent or essential matters. Starting today, parties to civil and family matters that aren't urgent or essential, and have been adjourned due to the suspension, can schedule a phone hearing.
The Supreme Court of British Columbia has extended its suspension of regular operations for another month.
Through to May 29, the court will continue to hear matters that are urgent or essential.
The suspension period – first established March 19 – initially ran to May 1.
While courts remain open, all trials, conferences, chambers applications and other hearings have been adjourned. Starting today, parties that have had their civil or family matter adjourned due to the suspension period can schedule a COVID-19 telephone conference hearing.
The phone hearing will be limited to one hour and one dispute, which must be suitable for determination by phone.
The option is currently only available for matters that were previously scheduled for a hearing during the suspension period.
According to the court, it may expand availability to matters not scheduled during that period.
