Proposed Reform of the justice system in Canada.
Courts of Canada
Proposed Reform of the justice system in Canada
JUSTITIA ET VERITAS; These Latin words mean “Justice and truth.”
Reform of the jury system in Ontario and canada.
In the current economy, this system is unaffordable for many. Parking alone can cost $25/day, leading to significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially for trials lasting more than ten days. Parents and those without additional household income face even greater financial strain. This system discourages participation in jury duty, which is essential for the justice system.
To address these issues, we will lobby the government should consider and implement the following recommendations:
1. Increase Daily Compensation: Provide a standard daily rate that covers basic living expenses. For instance, $100/day from the start of the trial would be more reasonable.
2. Expense Allowances: Offer allowances for transportation, parking, childcare, and meals. This could be a fixed daily rate or reimbursement based on receipts.
3. Employer Compensation: Mandate employers to compensate employees for lost wages during jury duty or provide a government stipend to cover the loss.
4. Travel and Lodging Support: For those living far from the courthouse, a generous travel and lodging allowance should be provided to ensure no one is financially burdened.
5. Flexible Schedule: Allow jurors to serve on a part-time basis or on weekends to minimize the disruption to their personal and professional lives.
Implementing these changes would make jury duty more accessible and ensure that financial constraints do not impede the justice system.
reform Civil and Family Court matter
To alleviate the burden on the court system, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. Assigning cases to masters, retired lawyers, or justices of the peace for initial triage and document review could significantly streamline the process. These officials can handle preliminary matters, including settlement discussions, evidence gathering, and procedural issues, ensuring that only cases ready for trial are handed off to judges. A triage administrator can oversee this process, maintaining strict timelines for each stage. This approach not only speeds up case progression but also ensures efficient use of judicial resources.
Additionally, implementing night or weekend video conference sessions can help keep cases on track. Regular check-ins via video conference can address any delays or issues promptly, ensuring adherence to schedules. To discourage manipulation of the system, heavy fines should be imposed on participants, especially lawyers, who engage in delaying tactics or take advantage of unrepresented litigants. This combination of measures would expedite civil court proceedings, ensuring timely and fair administration of justice.
Proposed Amendments for Enhanced Protection Against Harassment Under Emergency Motions
It has come to our attention that ongoing harassment of an LGBTQ+ couple since 2019 has largely gone unaddressed, highlighting the need for stronger protections under the law. To combat this, a new criterion should be added to the emergency motion provisions, encompassing Sections 15 and 7 of the Constitution of Canada. This addition would enable swift legal action and enforcement to stop harassment against vulnerable persons. It would allow individuals, including minorities, to seek immediate court orders for protection, with provisions for enforceable and emergency orders. These orders would empower local constabularies to respond rapidly to protect vulnerable individuals, based on the seriousness of the situation as assessed by a judge of the Superior Court or Supreme Court.
Furthermore, to ensure accountability, significant fines should be imposed on lawyers who knowingly lie or conceal the truth about their clients' actions, particularly when their clients are harassing or inflicting hate upon individuals without provocation. This measure would deter legal representatives from aiding in the perpetuation of harassment and ensure that justice is served swiftly and fairly, providing much-needed protection to those who have been unjustly targeted.