November 24, 2016
Manitoba Government Introduces Changes that would Support Timely Access to Justice
The Manitoba government has introduced a proposed legislative amendment that would help improve access to justice with a plan to create a new senior judicial justice of the peace (JJP) program, providing flexible expertise to deal with matters and ensure the court system moves forward as efficiently as possible, Justice Minister Heather Stefanson announced today.
“This legislative amendment creates a practical tool for the justice system to better meet the demands and expectations of Manitobans,” said Stefanson. “Like all Manitobans, we believe that timely access to justice is the cornerstone of our justice system. This measure will help make the system more responsive, efficient and accessible to all.”
JJP vacancies can create delays in the court system until qualified replacements can be appointed. The minister noted this bill is a step toward fulfilling the government’s commitment to improve access to justice and reduce court delays. The proposed provincial court amendment act would enable retired JJPs to put their names forward to serve as a senior JJP and Manitoba’s chief judge of the provincial court would have the authority to appoint an individual to minimize delays in having matters heard.
The proposed bill would also create a new administrative JJP position, which would help the chief judge manage and oversee the JJPs in the province.
JJPs have a wide range of legal duties where independence from the executive and legislative branches of government is required. Among other duties, they conduct contested bail hearings; issue search warrants; make decisions on applications for protection orders, mental-health orders and youth drug-stabilization orders; conduct vehicle impoundment hearings; and conduct trials and sentencing hearings for offences under the Summary Convictions Act.
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