There are two Local Administrative Judges assisting this week one remotely and one in person.

Over the weekend a blanket order was made limiting all in custody appearances from Central East Corrections to remote appearances only. For Newmarket matters all persons in custody from Central East Corrections will appear remotely. Other secure custody sites may follow same rule. Judges may order that an accused be physically brought to court in particular cases if appropriate.

There is a draft in custody appearance procedure being reviewed and vetted which sets out times, contact phone numbers, etc for conducting remote appearances..The goal is to release the protocol to the CLA shortly to ensure the private bar can be fully involved and integrated into this new process.

Duty counsel and crown ran wash court on the weekend entirely remotely with no issues. Duty counsel have 2 lawyers present remotely and 2 per diem on standby for remote assistance if needed.

Challenges exist concerning contested bail hearings remotely. While the past weekend Wash court involved entirely consent releases, there is a need to appropriately conduct contested show cause hearings remotely, including special bails. Efforts are underway to address the mechanics of same and hopefully will be addressed shortly.

This is the first day of entirely remote appearances. This is a constant work in progress.

Norman Panzica , York Director, Criminal Lawyers Association