Supreme Court of British Columbia Education Seminar Fall 2021

Overview

This online program dealt with a range of topics, including current issues in sexual assault law, bail and conditional sentence orders, complicated situations in chambers and in trial, and family justice.

Objective

The objectives of this seminar included enhancing participants’ practical skills in addressing the complicated, or unusual, matters they face in chambers or trial, as well as creating space to discuss the challenges of interviewing children. Further objectives included providing the most recent updates in sexual assault law and assisting participants in recognizing issues of perfectionism and procrastination in their work lives.

Summary

This online program began with an in-depth look at current issues in sexual assault law, with a specific emphasis on implications for the application of R. v. Gladue. This was followed by a focused presentation on perfectionism and procrastination as it is uniquely experienced by the judiciary. The day ended with a session on bail and conditional sentence orders. The second day considered complicated situations in chambers and in trial, drawing on first-hand accounts from members of the Court. This was followed by an exploration of how family justice could be reimagined, which included an examination of the challenging task of interviewing children. Led by experienced judges and academics, this program used a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and interactive elements. Participants were given the opportunity to explore how they would handle difficult situations of law and challenging dynamics in the courtroom. Judges had the opportunity to discuss and pose questions to the faculty throughout.