Etiquette for Criminal Matters (1:III) - Revision history

LSLAP at 18:53, 13 October 2025

2025-10-13T18:53:21Z

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Nate Russell: review confirmed 2025

2025-08-28T21:30:56Z

review confirmed 2025

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LSLAP at 20:24, 11 August 2025

2025-08-11T20:24:51Z

LSLAP at 00:41, 31 July 2024

2024-07-31T00:41:05Z

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	When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm in which courtroom the matter is to be heard. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.		When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm in which courtroom the matter is to be heard. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.

			To get their matter called, the self-represented accused person should indicate to Crown Counsel or the Crown assistant that they are present, self-represented, and ready to proceed. If Crown Counsel is not physically present, but appearing over Microsoft Teams, the accused should notify the Sheriff or Duty Counsel that they are present. Crown Counsel will proceed with the shortest matters first; priority will also be given to matters for which the accused '''and their counsel''' are present. Do not interrupt Crown Counsel when they are addressing a matter.

	~~In order to get their matter called~~, the ~~self-represented~~ accused ~~person~~ should ~~indicate to Crown Counsel or~~ the ~~Crown assistant that they are present~~, ~~self-represented~~, and ~~ready to proceed. Crown Counsel will proceed with~~ the ~~shortest matters first; priority will also be given to matters for which~~ the ~~accused and their counsel are present. Do not interrupt Crown Counsel when they are addressing a matter~~.		When the Judge enters or exits the court, the accused should stand. If the court is sitting, the accused should enter the courtroom, and be seated at the chairs located behind the bar that separates the public gallery from the “well” of the courtroom in front of the judge’s bench.

			When the matter is called, the accused should rise and approach the counsel’s table. They should stand on the other side of the podium from the Crown. The rule of thumb is that Crown is seated next to the witness box while the defence and the accused are seated furthest away.

	~~When the Judge enters or exits the court, the accused should stand. If the court is sitting, the accused should enter the courtroom, and be seated at the chairs located behind the bar.~~		:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.” The top of a court list will also indicate whether the matter is being heard in front of a Judge or JP.


	When the matter is called, the accused should rise and approach the counsel’s table. They should stand on the other side of the podium from the Crown. The rule of thumb is that Crown is seated next to the witness box while the defence and the accused are seated furthest away. In order to get the matter called, the accused should indicate to the sheriff or the Crown that they are ready to proceed.


	:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.”


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	When interacting with the Crown (or anyone else), the accused should always be pleasant and polite. There are times when the accused needs to be more assertive, but this should be done in a tactful way. The accused should always respect the Crown, even when pointing out errors.		When interacting with the Crown (or anyone else), the accused should always be pleasant and polite. There are times when the accused needs to be more assertive, but this should be done in a tactful way. The accused should always respect the Crown, even when pointing out errors.


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	Since the COVID-19 Pandemic an increasing number of court appearances are conducted remotely, both by legal representatives and accused persons. In BC, the Provincial Courts have chosen to use Microsoft Teams (“MS Teams”) for remote court appearances. The defence/self-represented accused can either dial in to the MS Teams meeting using a phone or join via a computer with a working internet connection and appear via video call.		Since the COVID-19 Pandemic an increasing number of court appearances are conducted remotely, both by legal representatives and accused persons. In BC, the Provincial Courts have chosen to use Microsoft Teams (“MS Teams”) for remote court appearances. The defence/self-represented accused can either dial in to the MS Teams meeting using a phone or join via a computer with a working internet connection and appear via video call.


	If the defence/accused wishes to attend the appearance remotely, determine at which courthouse and in which courtroom the appearance is taking place, using [https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do Court Services Online]. Call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date and time of the appearance, and ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. The defence/accused may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure they attend the correct courtroom.


	If the defence/accused intends to appear remotely, and knows which Crown Counsel is assigned to the court file, it is a good idea to email or call that Crown Counsel and let them know that they will be appearing remotely, specifying whether they expect to attend by telephone or MS Teams. All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown Counsel knows that the defence/accused intends to appear by MS Teams, they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if the defence/accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.

			If the defence/accused wishes to attend the appearance remotely, determine at which courthouse and in which courtroom the appearance is taking place, using Court Services Online (https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do). Call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date, and time of the appearance. Ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. The defence/accused may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure they attend the correct courtroom.

	If ~~appearing on MS Teams,~~ the ~~camera and microphone should be kept off until the accused’s matter is called. The~~ defence/accused ~~should use~~ the ~~chat function of MS Teams~~ to ~~let~~ Crown Counsel and ~~the court~~ know ~~for which matter~~ they ~~are present in court~~ to ~~address (last name~~ and ~~number of matter)~~. ~~Once~~ the ~~matter~~ is ~~called, turn~~ on the ~~camera. Only unmute the microphone when it is~~ the ~~defence’s turn to speak~~.		If the defence/accused intends to appear remotely, and knows which Crown Counsel is assigned to the court file, it is a good idea to email or call that Crown Counsel and let them know that they will be appearing remotely, specifying whether they expect to attend by telephone or MS Teams. All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown Counsel knows that the defence/accused intends to appear by MS Teams, they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if the defence/accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.

			If appearing on MS Teams, the camera and microphone should be kept off until the accused’s matter is called. The defence/accused should use the chat function of MS Teams to let Crown Counsel and the court know for which matter they are present in court to address (last name and number of matter). Once the matter is called, turn on the camera. Only unmute the microphone when it is the defence’s turn to speak.

	Please note, ~~that~~ if appearing remotely, it is likely that the matter will be called later than if the defence/accused had attended in person. ~~Please also note, that law~~ students are encouraged to attend appearances in person (unless ill) to observe the workflow of the active court.		Please note that, if appearing remotely, it is likely that the matter will be called later than if the defence/accused had attended in person. Law students representing clients are encouraged to attend appearances in person (unless ill) to observe the workflow of the active court.

			For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court:
			https://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca/downloads/Practice%20Directions/NP%2021%20Guide%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.

	For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca/downloads/Practice%20Directions/NP%2021%20Guide%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.


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LSLAP at 20:38, 22 August 2023

2023-08-22T20:38:30Z

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LSLAP at 18:37, 22 August 2023

2023-08-22T18:37:57Z

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	For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court: https://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca/downloads/Practice%20Directions/NP%2021%~~20Guid e~~%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.		For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca/downloads/Practice%20Directions/NP%2021%20Guide%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.


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LSLAP at 18:36, 22 August 2023

2023-08-22T18:36:28Z

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	When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm in which courtroom the matter is to be heard. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.		When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm in which courtroom the matter is to be heard. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.


	In order to get their matter called, the self-represented accused person should indicate to Crown Counsel or the Crown assistant that they are present, self-represented, and ready to proceed. Crown Counsel will proceed with the shortest matters first; priority will also be given to matters for which the accused and their counsel are present. Do not interrupt Crown Counsel when they are addressing a matter.		In order to get their matter called, the self-represented accused person should indicate to Crown Counsel or the Crown assistant that they are present, self-represented, and ready to proceed. Crown Counsel will proceed with the shortest matters first; priority will also be given to matters for which the accused and their counsel are present. Do not interrupt Crown Counsel when they are addressing a matter.


	When the Judge enters or exits the court, the accused should stand. If the court is sitting, the accused should enter the courtroom, and be seated at the chairs located behind the bar.		When the Judge enters or exits the court, the accused should stand. If the court is sitting, the accused should enter the courtroom, and be seated at the chairs located behind the bar.


	When the matter is called, the accused should rise and approach the counsel’s table. They should stand on the other side of the podium from the Crown. The rule of thumb is that Crown is seated next to the witness box while the defence and the accused are seated furthest away. In order to get the matter called, the accused should indicate to the sheriff or the Crown that they are ready to proceed.		When the matter is called, the accused should rise and approach the counsel’s table. They should stand on the other side of the podium from the Crown. The rule of thumb is that Crown is seated next to the witness box while the defence and the accused are seated furthest away. In order to get the matter called, the accused should indicate to the sheriff or the Crown that they are ready to proceed.


	:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.”		:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.”

LSLAP at 18:35, 22 August 2023

2023-08-22T18:35:56Z

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	== A. Courtroom Procedure for Self-Represented Litigants ==		== A. Courtroom Procedure for Self-Represented Litigants ==


	When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm in which courtroom the matter is to be heard. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.		When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm in which courtroom the matter is to be heard. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.

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	:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.”		:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.”


	=== 1. Interacting with Crown ===		=== 1. Interacting with Crown ===
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	Since the COVID-19 Pandemic an increasing number of court appearances are conducted remotely, both by legal representatives and accused persons. In BC, the Provincial Courts have chosen to use Microsoft Teams (“MS Teams”) for remote court appearances. The defence/self-represented accused can either dial in to the MS Teams meeting using a phone or join via a computer with a working internet connection and appear via video call.		Since the COVID-19 Pandemic an increasing number of court appearances are conducted remotely, both by legal representatives and accused persons. In BC, the Provincial Courts have chosen to use Microsoft Teams (“MS Teams”) for remote court appearances. The defence/self-represented accused can either dial in to the MS Teams meeting using a phone or join via a computer with a working internet connection and appear via video call.


	If the defence/accused wishes to attend the appearance remotely, determine at which courthouse and in which courtroom the appearance is taking place, using [https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do Court Services Online]. Call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date and time of the appearance, and ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. The defence/accused may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure they attend the correct courtroom.		If the defence/accused wishes to attend the appearance remotely, determine at which courthouse and in which courtroom the appearance is taking place, using [https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do Court Services Online]. Call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date and time of the appearance, and ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. The defence/accused may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure they attend the correct courtroom.


	If the defence/accused intends to appear remotely, and knows which Crown Counsel is assigned to the court file, it is a good idea to email or call that Crown Counsel and let them know that they will be appearing remotely, specifying whether they expect to attend by telephone or MS Teams. All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown Counsel knows that the defence/accused intends to appear by MS Teams, they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if the defence/accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.		If the defence/accused intends to appear remotely, and knows which Crown Counsel is assigned to the court file, it is a good idea to email or call that Crown Counsel and let them know that they will be appearing remotely, specifying whether they expect to attend by telephone or MS Teams. All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown Counsel knows that the defence/accused intends to appear by MS Teams, they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if the defence/accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.


	If appearing on MS Teams, the camera and microphone should be kept off until the accused’s matter is called. The defence/accused should use the chat function of MS Teams to let Crown Counsel and the court know for which matter they are present in court to address (last name and number of matter). Once the matter is called, turn on the camera. Only unmute the microphone when it is the defence’s turn to speak.		If appearing on MS Teams, the camera and microphone should be kept off until the accused’s matter is called. The defence/accused should use the chat function of MS Teams to let Crown Counsel and the court know for which matter they are present in court to address (last name and number of matter). Once the matter is called, turn on the camera. Only unmute the microphone when it is the defence’s turn to speak.


	Please note, that if appearing remotely, it is likely that the matter will be called later than if the defence/accused had attended in person. Please also note, that law students are encouraged to attend appearances in person (unless ill) to observe the workflow of the active court.		Please note, that if appearing remotely, it is likely that the matter will be called later than if the defence/accused had attended in person. Please also note, that law students are encouraged to attend appearances in person (unless ill) to observe the workflow of the active court.


	For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court: https://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca/downloads/Practice%20Directions/NP%2021%20Guid e%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.		For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court: https://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca/downloads/Practice%20Directions/NP%2021%20Guid e%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.

LSLAP at 18:34, 22 August 2023

2023-08-22T18:34:55Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:34, 22 August 2023
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	== A. Courtroom Procedure for Self-Represented Litigants ==		== A. Courtroom Procedure for Self-Represented Litigants ==
	When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm which courtroom the matter is to be heard in. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.		When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm in which courtroom the matter is to be heard. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.

	In order to get their matter called, the self-represented accused person should indicate to Crown Counsel or the Crown assistant that they are present, self-represented, and ready to proceed. Crown Counsel will proceed with the shortest matters first; priority will also be given to matters for which the accused ~~'''~~and their counsel~~'''~~ are present. Do not interrupt Crown Counsel when they are addressing a matter.		In order to get their matter called, the self-represented accused person should indicate to Crown Counsel or the Crown assistant that they are present, self-represented, and ready to proceed. Crown Counsel will proceed with the shortest matters first; priority will also be given to matters for which the accused and their counsel are present. Do not interrupt Crown Counsel when they are addressing a matter.

	When the Judge enters or exits the court, the accused should stand. If the court is sitting, the accused should enter the courtroom, and be seated at the chairs located behind the bar.		When the Judge enters or exits the court, the accused should stand. If the court is sitting, the accused should enter the courtroom, and be seated at the chairs located behind the bar.

	When the matter is called, the accused should rise and approach the counsel’s table. They should stand on the other side of the podium from the Crown. The rule of thumb is that Crown is seated next to the witness box while the defence and the accused are seated furthest away. In order to get the matter called, the accused should indicate to the sheriff or the Crown that they are ready to proceed.		When the matter is called, the accused should rise and approach the counsel’s table. They should stand on the other side of the podium from the Crown. The rule of thumb is that Crown is seated next to the witness box while the defence and the accused are seated furthest away. In order to get the matter called, the accused should indicate to the sheriff or the Crown that they are ready to proceed.

	:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.”		:'''NOTE:''' Provincial Court Judges wear robes and are addressed as “Your Honour” in court while Justices of the Peace wear suits or other clothing, and are addressed as “Your Worship.”

	=== 1. Interacting with Crown ===		=== 1. Interacting with Crown ===
	When interacting with the Crown (or anyone else ~~for that matter~~), the accused should always be pleasant and polite. There are times when the accused needs to be more assertive but this should be done in a tactful way. The accused should always respect the Crown, even when pointing out errors.

			When interacting with the Crown (or anyone else), the accused should always be pleasant and polite. There are times when the accused needs to be more assertive, but this should be done in a tactful way. The accused should always respect the Crown, even when pointing out errors.


	=== 2. Courtroom Demeanour & Etiquette ===		=== 2. Courtroom Demeanour & Etiquette ===

	* Be well-groomed and well-dressed;
	* Always be polite to everyone in the courtroom;		* Be well-groomed and well-dressed;
	* Never mislead the court;		* Always be polite to everyone in the courtroom;
	* Be punctual. Do not waste the court’s time;		* Never mislead the court;
			* Be punctual. Do not waste the court’s time;
	* Address the court in a loud clear voice. Most microphones in the courtrooms are only for recording and not for amplification purposes;		* Address the court in a loud clear voice. Most microphones in the courtrooms are only for recording and not for amplification purposes;
	* Stand when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom;		* Stand when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom;
	* Stand when addressing the Court, being addressed by the Court, objecting and responding to objections. Stand when (or if) you are being sentenced or convicted;		* Stand when addressing the Court, being addressed by the Court, objecting and responding to objections. Stand when (or if) you are being sentenced or convicted;
	* Sit when Crown Counsel is speaking to the court, or interjects to make an objection;		* Sit when Crown Counsel is speaking to the court or interjects to make an objection;
	* Stand on the other side of the podium from Crown Counsel and furthest away from the witness box;		* Stand on the other side of the podium from Crown Counsel and furthest away from the witness box;
	* Be well prepared. Know the factual basis of your file, the applicable law and the relevant procedural rules. Part of being well prepared means being able to answer questions from the court;		* Be well prepared. Know the factual basis of your file, the applicable law and the relevant procedural rules. Part of being well prepared means being able to answer questions from the court;
	* Be respectful in your comments. In your dealings with the Court adopt a formal approach which reflects courtesy and respect for the authority of the court. Let the court know what you are doing with phrases such as “with your Honour’s leave I would like to approach the witness to show him his ~~statement"~~;		* Be respectful in your comments. In your dealings with the Court adopt a formal approach which reflects courtesy and respect for the authority of the court. Let the court know what you are doing with phrases such as “with your Honour’s leave I would like to approach the witness to show him his statement”;
	* Do not interrupt the judge. Listen to what the judge says;		* Do not interrupt the judge. Listen to what the judge says;
	* Pause briefly to consider your words and then respond;		* Pause briefly to consider your words and then respond;
	* Address all remarks to Crown Counsel through the judge;		* Address all remarks to Crown Counsel through the judge;
	* Do not quarrel with Crown Counsel, witnesses or the Court; ~~and~~		* Do not quarrel with Crown Counsel, witnesses, or the Court;
	* '''Slow down.''' The judge will likely be taking notes, if you see that the judge is not looking at you and writing things down pause and wait.		* '''Slow down.''' The judge will likely be taking notes, if you see that the judge is not looking at you and writing things down, pause and wait.


	=== 3. Appearing Remotely ===		=== 3. Appearing Remotely ===
	Since the COVID-19 Pandemic an increasing number of court appearances are done remotely, both by legal representatives and accused persons. In British Columbia, the Provincial Courts have chosen to use Microsoft Teams (“MS Teams”) for remote court appearances. You can either dial in to the MS Teams meeting using a phone or join via a computer with a working internet connection and appear via video call.

	If you wish to attend your appearance remotely, you should find out which courthouse and courtroom your appearance is taking place at, using Court Services Online. Then call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date and time of your appearance and ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. You may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure you attend the correct courtroom.

	If ~~you intend~~ to appear remotely, and ~~you know~~ which Crown is assigned to ~~your~~ court file, it is a good idea to email or call that Crown and let them know ~~you~~ will be appearing remotely ~~and~~ whether ~~you~~ expect to attend by telephone or MS Teams. All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown knows that ~~you intend~~ to appear by MS Teams they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if ~~you~~/~~the~~ accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.		Since the COVID-19 Pandemic an increasing number of court appearances are conducted remotely, both by legal representatives and accused persons. In BC, the Provincial Courts have chosen to use Microsoft Teams (“MS Teams”) for remote court appearances. The defence/self-represented accused can either dial in to the MS Teams meeting using a phone or join via a computer with a working internet connection and appear via video call.

			If the defence/accused wishes to attend the appearance remotely, determine at which courthouse and in which courtroom the appearance is taking place, using [https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do Court Services Online]. Call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date and time of the appearance, and ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. The defence/accused may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure they attend the correct courtroom.

			If the defence/accused intends to appear remotely, and knows which Crown Counsel is assigned to the court file, it is a good idea to email or call that Crown Counsel and let them know that they will be appearing remotely, specifying whether they expect to attend by telephone or MS Teams. All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown Counsel knows that the defence/accused intends to appear by MS Teams, they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if the defence/accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.

			If appearing on MS Teams, the camera and microphone should be kept off until the accused’s matter is called. The defence/accused should use the chat function of MS Teams to let Crown Counsel and the court know for which matter they are present in court to address (last name and number of matter). Once the matter is called, turn on the camera. Only unmute the microphone when it is the defence’s turn to speak.

	~~If you appear on MS Teams~~, ~~you should keep your camera and microphone off until your~~ matter is called. ~~To let Crown Counsel and the court know you~~ are ~~there, use the chat function of MS Teams~~ to ~~announce what matter you are present~~ in ~~court to deal with~~ (~~last name and number of matter~~)~~. Once your matter is called you should turn on your camera but only unmute when it is your turn~~ to ~~speak~~.		Please note, that if appearing remotely, it is likely that the matter will be called later than if the defence/accused had attended in person. Please also note, that law students are encouraged to attend appearances in person (unless ill) to observe the workflow of the active court.

	~~Please note, that if you appear~~ remotely, ~~it is likely that your matter will be called later than if you attended~~ in ~~person~~. ~~Please also note, that if you are a law student, it is encouraged that you attend your appearances in person (unless you are ill) so you can observe the workflow of the active court~~.		For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court: https://www.provincialcourt.bc.ca/downloads/Practice%20Directions/NP%2021%20Guid e%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.

	For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the memorandum produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia: NP 21 Virtual Proceedings & Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court.

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LSLAP: /* A. Courtroom procedure for self-represented litigants */

2022-08-30T15:06:32Z

A. Courtroom procedure for self-represented litigants

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:06, 30 August 2022
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	== A. Courtroom ~~procedure~~ for ~~self~~-~~represented litigants~~ ==		== A. Courtroom Procedure for Self-Represented Litigants ==
	When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm which courtroom the matter is to be heard in. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.		When an accused attends court for a matter, they should check the court lists to confirm which courtroom the matter is to be heard in. If the court is not sitting at the time, the accused should attempt to seek out the Crown Counsel who has conduct of the matter and identify themselves.

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:24, 11 August 2025
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	* Be well-groomed and well-dressed;		* Be well-groomed and well-dressed.
	* Always be polite to everyone in the courtroom;		* Always be polite to everyone in the courtroom.
	* Never mislead the court;		* Never mislead the court.
	* Be punctual. Do not waste the court’s time;		* Be punctual. Do not waste the court’s time.
	* Address the court in a loud clear voice. Most microphones in the courtrooms are only for recording and not for amplification purposes;		* Address the court in a loud clear voice. Most microphones in the courtrooms are only for recording and not for amplification purposes.
	* Stand when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom;		* Stand when the judge enters or leaves the courtroom.
	* Stand when addressing the Court, being addressed by the Court, objecting and responding to objections. Stand when (or if) you are being sentenced or convicted;		* Stand when addressing the Court, being addressed by the Court, objecting and responding to objections. Stand when (or if) you are being sentenced or convicted.
	* Sit when Crown Counsel is speaking to the court or interjects to make an objection;		* Sit when Crown Counsel is speaking to the court or interjects to make an objection.
	* Stand on the other side of the podium from Crown Counsel and furthest away from the witness box;		* Stand on the other side of the podium from Crown Counsel and furthest away from the witness box.
	* Be well prepared. Know the factual basis of your file, the applicable law and the relevant procedural rules. Part of being well prepared means being able to answer questions from the court;		* Be well prepared. Know the factual basis of your file, the applicable law and the relevant procedural rules. Part of being well prepared means being able to answer questions from the court.
	* Be respectful in your comments. In your dealings with the Court adopt a formal approach which reflects courtesy and respect for the authority of the court. Let the court know what you are doing with phrases such as “with your Honour’s leave I would like to approach the witness to show him his ~~statement”;~~		* Be respectful in your comments. In your dealings with the Court adopt a formal approach which reflects courtesy and respect for the authority of the court. Let the court know what you are doing with phrases such as “with your Honour’s leave I would like to approach the witness to show him his statement".
	* Do not interrupt the judge. Listen to what the judge says;		* Do not interrupt the judge. Listen to what the judge says.
	* Pause briefly to consider your words and then respond;		* Pause briefly to consider your words and then respond.
	* Address all remarks to Crown Counsel through the judge;		* Address all remarks to Crown Counsel through the judge.
	* Do not quarrel with Crown Counsel, witnesses, or the Court;		* Do not quarrel with Crown Counsel, witnesses, or the Court.
	* '''Slow down.''' The judge will likely be taking notes, if you see that the judge is not looking at you and writing things down, pause and wait.		* '''Slow down.''' The judge will likely be taking notes, if you see that the judge is not looking at you and writing things down, pause and wait.

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	If the defence/accused wishes to attend the appearance remotely, determine at which courthouse and in which courtroom the appearance is taking place, using Court Services Online (https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do). Call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date, and time of the appearance. Ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. The defence/accused may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure they attend the correct courtroom.		If the defence/accused wishes to attend the appearance remotely, determine at which courthouse and in which courtroom the appearance is taking place, using Court Services Online (https://justice.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do). Call the court registry for that courthouse, tell them the courtroom, date, and time of the appearance. Ask for either the dial in number or the e-mail link for MS Teams for that courtroom on that day. The defence/accused may also wish to ask for the conference number to ensure they attend the correct courtroom.

	If the defence/accused intends to appear remotely~~, and knows which Crown Counsel is assigned~~ to the court ~~file~~, it ~~is a good idea~~ to ~~email or call that~~ Crown ~~Counsel~~ and ~~let~~ them ~~know that they will be appearing remotely, specifying whether they expect~~ to ~~attend by telephone or MS Teams~~. All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown Counsel knows that the defence/accused intends to appear by MS Teams, they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if the defence/accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.		If the defence/accused intends to appear remotely you need to file a Court Videoconference Request form (ADM509) form at the court registry 5 business days prior to the hearing. If you submit the request form outside of the registry’s regular hours, it must be done 21 business days in advance of the hearing. You will need to contact the Crown and inform them in order to receive consent.

			All technology is prone to breakdowns and interruptions. If Crown Counsel knows that the defence/accused intends to appear by MS Teams, they will be slow to seek a bench warrant if the defence/accused is not present on the phone or on MS Teams at the correct time.

	If appearing on MS Teams, the camera and microphone should be kept off until the accused’s matter is called. The defence/accused should use the chat function of MS Teams to let Crown Counsel and the court know for which matter they are present in court to address (last name and number of matter). Once the matter is called, turn on the camera. Only unmute the microphone when it is the defence’s turn to speak.		If appearing on MS Teams, the camera and microphone should be kept off until the accused’s matter is called. The defence/accused should use the chat function of MS Teams to let Crown Counsel and the court know for which matter they are present in court to address (last name and number of matter). Once the matter is called, turn on the camera. Only unmute the microphone when it is the defence’s turn to speak.
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	Please note that, if appearing remotely, it is likely that the matter will be called later than if the defence/accused had attended in person. Law students representing clients are encouraged to attend appearances in person (unless ill) to observe the workflow of the active court.		Please note that, if appearing remotely, it is likely that the matter will be called later than if the defence/accused had attended in person. Law students representing clients are encouraged to attend appearances in person (unless ill) to observe the workflow of the active court.

	For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the ~~memorandum~~ produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, ~~NP 21 Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court~~:		For further information about appearing remotely and official court rules please refer to the webpage produced by the Provincial Court of British Columbia, “Participating Remotely”:
	https://~~www.~~provincialcourt.bc.ca/~~downloads~~/~~Practice%20Directions~~/~~NP%2021%20Guide%20to%20Virtual%20Proceedings.pdf.~~		https://provincialcourt.bc.ca/navigating-court-case/information-all-types-cases/attending-court-case/participating-remotely




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