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Difference between revisions of "Etiquette for Criminal Matters (1:III)"
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Etiquette for Criminal Matters (1:III) (view source)
Revision as of 11:54, 24 August 2022
, 11:54, 24 August 2022→A. Courtroom procedure for self-represented litigants
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* '''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 === | |||
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. | |||
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 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 Virtual Proceedings & Remote Attendance in the Provincial Court. | |||
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