Superior Court of Justice (Ontario) Spring Education Seminar

Overview

This seminar focused on a number of issues in civil, family and criminal law of practical relevance to the work of the Court.

Objectives

The objectives of this seminar were to enhance participants’ awareness of key developments in civil, criminal and family law matters before the Court and to deliver practical tools for optimal productivity.

Summary

Faculty included judges, senior practitioners, and legal academics. Participants applied concepts discussed during the seminar using fact scenarios, instant response questions and discussion with their peers. Civil law sessions focussed on civil interlocutory motions that bring actions to closure without a trial or a determination of the merits. Family law sessions delivered essential case law updates and practical presentations on motions that end or shorten family law litigation, including striking pleadings, enforceable settlements, summary judgments, uncontested trials, and costs.  Criminal law sessions explored the law and social context of appropriate sentencing in sexual assault cases, recognizing the need for procedural, evidentiary and substantive guideposts.