District Assembly : The Judge in a Changing Society 2017

Overview

This one-and-a-half day program, offered as part of the Montreal District Assembly, dealt with the theme “The Judge in a Changing Society”.

Objectives

The objectives of the District Assembly were to develop a greater awareness of the social context which could influence the application and interpretation of the law; to better understand cultural intelligence and judicial practice; to develop, in civil matters, writing skills and effective communication skills; and, in criminal matters, to review the case law from the Supreme Court of Canada regarding computer searches, and to review how judges can cut down delays particularly given the Jordan decision.

Summary 

Led by judges, and professors and supported by lectures and role-plays, topics covered included: cultural intelligence; measuring the impact of social realities on judicial practice; the civil code; new judgment template and note-taking model; court costs and legal fees; effective communication; relational skills in settlement conferences and intense trials; listening strategies; and in criminal matters, the Supreme Court of Canada case law on computer searches and how judges can help reduce delays after Jordan; and Canada’s contribution to the United Nations.