The fully remote court process is being implemented today with adjustments to be made as issues arise. The new directive restricting public access to the courts is in place, limiting physical courtroom presence to jurists, clerks and court reporters, applying appropriate social distancing.  All other participants are to appear remotely and for most by audio.

Sureties who attend the courthouse in person will be directed to a location in the courthouse where they can phone in to the courtroom.  They will be asked to send a image of their identification to private counsel or duty counsel as applicable, for vetting purposes.   If sureties are required to testify then same is done by audio

Courtroom call in numbers may change for tomorrow.  In that event new call in numbers will be provided later today.

There have been and will be issues with special or longer contested bail hearings.  Attempts are being made to make the hearing more efficient, relying more on paper than witnesses and to maximize efficiency through scheduling with Central East Corrections.  These are ongoing efforts and a continuous work in progress. Currently longer contested matters are normally being set for the afternoon. 

Direction is needed concerning the screening process exercised by front door security to those who wish to enter the building. There is a need to clarify questions being asked by security of individuals prior to their entry concerning illness and reason for entry.  For those individuals claiming "urgency ", that particular issue can only be addressed by a judicial officer.   

Media are entitled to access to court hearings.  However such access is limited to audio and they can call in.

I am discussing the implementation of a process for electronic bail variations later this morning with stakeholders and hope to provide an update later this week.

Sincerely Norman Panzica York Director,  Criminal Lawyers Association