What Is A Pre-Trial?
In Ontario, a civil lawsuit goes through many stages, all of equal importance in determining facts, liability and evidence.
A Pre-Trial is typically the final stage before a lawsuit proceeds to trial and is probably the most important stage. If matters don`t resolve at private settlement conferences or mediations they proceed to Pre-Trial.
Typically, parties will schedule a Pre-Trial once all matters have been finalized. Following that, parties will prepare legal briefs that will be exchanged with the other side. What makes the Pre-Trial different from all other steps is the fact that a Judge attends.
Pre-Trials are generally informal, but the typical rules of court apply.
Generally, parties have an opportunity to discuss their case and determine the strengths and weakness. However, the Judges input is very valuable. He or she will likely inform parties if their case is good or bad. The Judge usually attempts to provide his or her opinion based on his or her experience at trial. For example, what a Jury might think, or how evidence and facts might come across.
A successful Pre-Trial can be very encouraging. Whereas, a negative Pre-Trial should result in the development of a new strategy.
The Ontario justice system has been structured to encourage settlement and the Pre-Trial is the final stage before trial.
If you require legal services, call the law office of Rehan Khalil, a Mississauga lawyer.
anytime for a free consultation