Provincial Offences

Your camera must be turned on for all court proceedings. 

Virtual trials are held over Zoom. Even when attending court virtually, the expectations and requirements for conduct and behaviour are the same as if you were attending the courtroom in person. Review the guidelines below to prepare for and attend court virtually.

To prepare

• Sign into the Zoom courtroom 15 minutes before your court matter to ensure you're ready when your matter is called to avoid interruptions. There may be other matters scheduled for the same timeframe, which could result in a waiting period before your matter is addressed.
• Join the meeting from a well-lit space, avoid using filters or backgrounds, and choose a quiet and private area to avoid distractions and ensure privacy.
• Have your camera turned on.
• No food, beverages, gum or smoking is permitted during your court appearance. Water is allowed.
• Address the judiciary as "Your Worship."
• Dress appropriately for a form court environment.
• Do not carry on side conversations while the court is in session.
• To reduce background noise and improve clarity, use a headset if available. 
• Ensure your device is fully charged or plugged into an external power source to avoid disruption.

Submitting evidence

If you have evidence you want to bring to court, you must submit it in advance, no later than 5 business days before your court date. Submit your evidence to us by email or in person at the Provincial Offences Office. Each item must be attached as a separate file.

Label each document, video or photograph as follows:

• Last Name, First Name - Description of Item (example: Smith, John - Insurance Slip)

For the email subject line, use the following format:

• Last Name, First Name - Case Number, Defence or Prosecution, Trial Date (example: Smith, John - 0123456X, Defence, Trial March 2024)

Joining the courtroom (Zoom)

• Click on the "Join Courtroom" button and enter your screen name - this name must be your legal first and last name.
• Turn on your camera before speaking
• When you first address the court, state your name for the record and speak clearly.
  • Mute your microphone until your case is called by the court and you are required to speak. Failure to remain muted may result in court staff placing you on mute or removing you from the court session.

Technical issues

• If you have technical issues, use the "raise hand" feature in Zoom and court staff will assist you.
• If you get disconnected and can't reconnect, contact court staff at 905-772-3327.

• Arrive 15 minutes before your court matter to ensure you're ready when your matter is called and to avoid interruptions.
• Other matters may be scheduled for the same timeframe, which could result in a waiting period before your matter is addressed.
• No food, beverages, gum or smoking while in the courtroom. You may have water.
• Review the electronic signage posted near the courtroom doors providing information on protocols and prohibited items.
• Address the judiciary as "Your Worship."
• Dress appropriately for a formal court environment. 
• Do not engage in conversation while court is in session.