Alberta courts urge public to avoid courthouses

Law360 Canada (March 24, 2020, 9:50 AM EDT) -- To protect the health and safety of staff, court users and the community in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alberta courts are asking that, until further notice, members of the public not visit the courthouses in the province. Instead, only those persons necessary to court proceedings should attend at the courthouses. Those necessary are counsel, litigants and members of the media.

While the pandemic has affected the manner in which the courts operate, they are assuring the public that the courts will do what is necessary to maintain essential services and the rule of law. Alberta declared a public health emergency March 17.

Traffic courts are not operating. All fines should be paid online. The courts are working with the government of Alberta to ensure business continuity for employees and operations in government that impact on the courts. That includes arranging appearances via video or audioconference from local detention facilities.

This document contains information about matters which will continued to be heard by the provincial court, the Court of Queen’s Bench and the Court of Appeal. The procedures described are subject to change. Further information and announcements will be posted on the courts’ website.