The courts of Nova Scotia have issued several memoranda explaining how its practices and procedures have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic:

• the Supreme Court is now only accepting filings electronically.
• the Supreme Court (Family Division) and Nova Scotia Family Court have switched to an “essential services” docket, hearing only adult- and child-protection matters, cases where a child has been abducted, and matters deemed emergencies. Even these matters are being held by conference call whenever possible.
• in the Provincial Court, the deadline for payment of many fines has been extended, and for the time being, no one will be automatically convicted for a parking or riving offence if they don’t show up at for their court appearance.

If you are dealing with any legal matters at the moment, make sure to contact your lawyer and check the courts website to see how your case is being affected.

As for me, my office is closed to the public and I’m working from home. But I’m still meeting with clients when needed – albeit by teleconference or video calling apps. My contact information remains the same, but regular mail may be delayed – email or fax is the best way to get a hold of me.

In the meantime, stay home and keep washing those hands!