Last week, we became aware that ACPS has advised all Crown prosecutors to appear virtually for all docket courts, as well as for trials whenever feasible. While LAA’s operations at the courthouse continue to be business as usual, given the Crown’s approach we wanted to remind you that you are encouraged to contact us in advance with any concerns you may have about appearing in person. Your health and safety are important to LAA, and we want to support you, especially as COVID numbers continue to rise in Alberta.
If you choose to appear in court via WebEx as duty counsel, please ensure that you advise the Court Clerk that this is how you will be proceeding. This should be done prior to the commencement of court proceedings, and you should provide your cellphone number and email address to the Clerk. It is best practice in any event to contact the Clerk prior to the commencement of court proceedings to advise them that you will be duty counsel that day, whether appearing in person or remotely. Alternatively, if you do not wish to appear remotely but are not comfortable appearing in person, please contact us as far in advance as possible so that we can withdraw the certificate and adjust the schedule accordingly.
We continue to monitor AHS guidelines and will respond flexibly as the situation changes. Thank you for the work you do to support Alberta’s most vulnerable citizens.
