The judges and the justices of the peace of the Court preside over adult criminal, youth criminal, family law, child welfare, and provincial offences matters.
Criminal cases where charges are laid under the Criminal Code, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, Youth Criminal Justice Act and other federal statutes
Family cases, including child protection, adoption, cases involving decision-making responsibility, parenting time, contact, and support cases.
All cases laid under provincial legislation, including traffic offences, by-law offences and offences against environmental, health and safety, and employment standards legislation.
Expanded Surety Declaration Provincial Protocol, effective July 1, 2026
The Ontario Court of Justice is rolling out the “Expanded Surety Declaration” across the province starting from July 1, 2026. The Expanded Surety Declaration sets out more detailed information for the Court about a proposed surety and is aimed at reducing parties’ reliance on viva voce evidence from proposed sureties in bail hearings. For more information, see the Expanded Surety Declaration Provincial Protocol.
Appointment of new justices of the peace to the Ontario Court of Justice, effective July 8, 2026
New Justices of the Peace Appointed to the Ontario Court of Justice
New Judges Appointed to the Ontario Court of Justice, effective June 18, 2026
Amended Jordan-Compliant Trial Scheduling Practice Direction, effective June 1, 2026
The Ontario Court of Justice Practice Direction: Jordan-Compliant Trial Scheduling is being amended to include a new “Part III”. This Part states that criminal matters shall have no more than 3 appearances in case management court. This Part applies to Informations sworn June 1, 2026 or later. This Part does not apply to individuals in custody, youth, or matters participating in a specialized court.