By Canadian Press

Top court keeps wheels of justice turning with virtual hearings

Jun 9, 2020 | 11:35 AM

OTTAWA — Canada’s top court plunges into the world of virtual video hearings this afternoon to keep the wheels of justice grinding during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Supreme Court of Canada plans to hold four hearings this week via videoconference to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Chief Justice Richard Wagner says while the pandemic has forced the high court to close its building to visitors for health and safety reasons, it hasn’t stopped the nine justices from doing their work.

The first hearing, taking place today, involves a contractual dispute over a British Columbia real-estate development.

The high court has long embraced technology by livestreaming proceedings on the court’s website.

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However, the virtual hearings will unfold much like an online business meeting, with participants — including judges, lawyers and observers — connecting through the internet.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 9, 2020.

The Canadian Press