Respectful Behaviour Guidelines - Court of Appeal for Ontario

Purpose

The Court of Appeal for Ontario is committed to treating all persons with dignity and respect.

These guidelines are intended to ensure a safe, inclusive and professional environment for everyone participating in or supporting the administration of justice. Anyone attending at the offices of the Court of Appeal for Ontario[1] is expected to behave and communicate in a respectful manner.

Expectations

All court offices are an extension of our courts; all court staff should be treated with the same respect that is given to judicial officers.

Specifically, all individuals engaging with court staff and judicial officers are expected to:

Treat everyone with courtesy, dignity and respect.
Communicate in a calm, civil and constructive manner.
Avoid communicating repeatedly.
Follow instructions from court staff and follow all posted signs and court protocols.
Wait their turn and respect the order of service.
Recognize that Court staff are required to comply with and apply the applicable decisions/rules.

Court staff cannot comment on or amend decisions or rules. In addition, court staff cannot provide legal advice.

The Court of Appeal for Ontario does not tolerate abusive, discriminatory, or threatening behaviour of any kind.

Individuals who do not comply with these expectations or engage in inappropriate communications or behaviour may be:

Given a verbal or written warning.
Asked to leave the courthouse building or premises.
Denied access to in person court services.
Reported to courthouse security or law enforcement, if needed.
Referred to a judge.
Subject to service modifications for repeated misconduct.
Other appropriate measures as required.

Thank you for helping to keep the Court of Appeal for Ontario safe, respectful, and accessible for everyone and supporting equal, accessible and fair justice for all.

[1] Staff at the Court of Appeal for Ontario can only assist with matters before the Court of Appeal for Ontario. If you have inquiries about matters before the Ontario Court of Justice or the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, you will need to contact the applicable court office.