Case Management

Case Management

Case management conferences are integral to streamlining the court process and resolving procedural issues before trial. These conferences provide an opportunity for the judge, Crown prosecutor, and defence counsel to discuss and address several critical matters before the trial commences, to make sure there is enough time and resources available, depending on the complexity of the case. Examples of procedural issues commonly addressed include setting firm trial dates, clarifying evidentiary disputes, making admissions on non-contentious issues, and identifying any pre-trial motions that need to be resolved, such as motions to exclude evidence or requests for additional disclosure. The Case Management Conference can often be used as a useful platform for all parties to have a fruitful discussion, which may involve the possible resolution of the charge(s) and new ideas about how to be most efficient. It is also useful to engage both counsel in the months leading up to the trial to negotiate, and either resolve, or streamline the issues.

The discussions during case management conferences often impact the trial timeline significantly. By addressing these issues early, the parties can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure the trial proceeds as scheduled. For instance, resolving questions about the admissibility of evidence during case management can prevent lengthy interruptions once the trial has started.

Additionally, case management allows the parties to focus on narrowing the issues to be argued at trial, which can lead to more efficient proceedings. It provides a forum to confirm the readiness of both sides, discuss witness availability, and ensure compliance with procedural rules. The ultimate goal of case management is to ensure the trial is fair, efficient, and conducted without unnecessary complications or surprises. During these conferences, the judge, Crown, and Defence discuss timelines, evidence, and many novel factors perhaps not considered beforehand.

Applications, such as motions to exclude certain evidence, may also be addressed during this stage. Evidence might be excluded on various legal grounds, such as if it was obtained in violation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, if it is deemed irrelevant or prejudicial, or if proper procedures were not followed during its collection. For example, statements made without informing the accused of their right to counsel could be inadmissible. Similarly, evidence acquired through an unlawful search might be excluded to uphold the fairness of the trial process. These motions play a crucial role in ensuring that only legally and ethically obtained evidence is considered in court. The goal of case management is to ensure that the trial proceeds efficiently and fairly. For instance, case management conferences have successfully streamlined trials by resolving evidentiary disputes in advance, allowing the trial to focus on substantive issues without interruptions. Challenges can arise, such as disagreements over disclosure timelines or motions to exclude evidence, which may prolong the process if not addressed promptly. However, proactive and thorough case management often prevents these issues from escalating, ensuring a more organized and effective trial process.