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Pre-trials in Criminal Proceedings Before the Ontario Court of Justice
Last Updated: August 23 2026
Question: How does a Crown pre-trial or a judicial pre-trial work in Ontario Court of Justice criminal cases?
Answer: In Ontario Court of Justice criminal matters, both Crown pre-trials and judicial pre-trials aim to help the accused understand the Crown’s case early and consider resolution options without a full trial. A Crown pre-trial is run by Crown prosecutors, who review the evidence with defence counsel and may propose a resolution offer the accused can accept to end the case sooner. A judicial pre-trial is run by a judge, who can discuss the evidence and likely outcomes with both sides and may suggest how the matter could be resolved. If you’re facing a pre-trial date, DefendCharges.Lawyer can help you prepare for what will be discussed, assess realistic paths forward, and protect your interests through the process in Ontario; call (647) 977-5997 to book.
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Pre-trials are an important part of criminal proceedings before the Ontario Court of Justice. Pre-trials are used to assess the strength of the Crown’s case and to provide an opportunity for the accused to make an informed decision about how to proceed. Crown pre-trials and judicial pre-trials are two types of pre-trials that are used in criminal proceedings in Ontario.
What is a Crown Pre-Trial
Crown pre-trials are conducted by Crown prosecutors and are used to assess the strength of the Crown’s case. During a Crown pre-trial, the Crown and defence counsel may discuss the evidence and the possible outcomes of the case. The Crown may also make an offer to resolve the matter without a trial. If the accused accepts the offer, the case may be resolved without a trial.
What is a Judicial Pre-Trial
Judicial pre-trials are conducted by a judge and are used to assess the strength of the Crown’s case and to provide an opportunity for the accused to make an informed decision about how to proceed. During a judicial pre-trial, the judge may discuss the evidence and the possible outcomes of the case with both the Crown and defence counsel. The judge may also make suggestions about how the case might be resolved without a trial.
Summary Comment
Both Crown pre-trials and judicial pre-trials are important steps in criminal proceedings before the Ontario Court of Justice. Pre-trials provide an opportunity for the Crown and defence counsel to assess the strength of the Crown’s case and to explore possible resolutions without a trial. Pre-trials also provide an opportunity for the accused to make an informed decision about how to proceed. Pre-trials are an important part of criminal proceedings in Ontario and should be taken seriously by all parties involved.