Pre-Court Conference - Docket & Trial Court Teams

A Court Team consisting of specialized Crown prosecutors, police officers from the Domestic Conflict Unit, probation officers, Legal Aid duty counsel and domestic court caseworkers meet with defence representatives prior to an accused's appearance in court. This is called a pre-court conference. During the pre-court conference the team shares and updates information with defence representatives; a possible resolution for each file is discussed. The pre-court conference ensures that Crown and defence have a clear understanding of the history, background and complainant's wishes in each case. Cases are then handled with accuracy, sensitivity and efficiency.

Due to the success of the HomeFront model, the specialized domestic violence trial court opened in Calgary in March 2005. Contested cases that cannot be resolved in the docket court come to trial here. The court sits every weekday afternoon with the objective of reducing wait times for trials.

HomeFront provides domestic court caseworkers to encourage, comfort and support complainants so they feel safe, informed and involved throughout the justice process. The focus ensures they participate in the trial when their testimony is needed. No advice or suggestions are given in connection with their testimony.

Contact:

For more information on the court program process please contact 403.206.2100 ext.224.