In Ontario, Canada, the judicial system consists of several types of courts that handle various types of cases. Each court has its own jurisdiction and deals with specific matters. Here are the different types of courts in Ontario:
Ontario Court of Justice (Provincial Court)
The Ontario Court of Justice is the province’s primary trial court and handles a wide range of criminal, family, and provincial offenses. It deals with criminal cases involving less serious offenses (summary conviction offenses), bail hearings, preliminary inquiries, and family law matters such as child custody (Decision-making responsibilities), spousal support, and access. The Ontario Court of Justice also hears cases related to provincial offenses, including traffic violations, bylaws, and certain regulatory offenses.
Superior Court of Justice
The Superior Court of Justice is a higher-level court in Ontario with broader jurisdiction. It deals with both civil and criminal matters of a more serious nature. The civil division of the court handles cases involving significant monetary claims, complex legal issues, and appeals from administrative tribunals. The criminal division of the Superior Court of Justice handles more serious criminal offenses (indictable offenses) and jury trials.
Family Court
Family Court is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice that deals exclusively with family law matters. It provides a dedicated forum for resolving disputes related to marriage, divorce, child custody, access, child support, and property division. Family Court judges have expertise in family law and handle cases with sensitivity to the unique needs and dynamics of families.
Divisional Court
The Divisional Court is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice and serves as an appellate court. It hears appeals from various administrative boards and tribunals, including decisions related to professional disciplinary matters, immigration and refugee matters, and certain civil and family law cases. The Divisional Court also hears applications for judicial review, which involve challenging decisions made by government agencies or officials.
Court of Appeal for Ontario
The Court of Appeal for Ontario is the highest court in the province and deals with appeals from lower courts and administrative tribunals. It reviews decisions made by the Superior Court of Justice and the Divisional Court. The Court of Appeal consists of panels of judges who determine whether errors of law or procedure occurred in the lower court’s decision.
Small Claims Court
The Small Claims Court is a specialized court that handles civil disputes involving claims up to a certain monetary limit (currently $35,000 in Ontario). It provides a simplified and cost-effective process for individuals and businesses to resolve smaller-scale disputes, including matters such as unpaid debts, property damage, or breach of contract.
Ontario Court of Justice (Youth Court)
The Ontario Court of Justice also has a specialized division known as the Youth Court, which deals with matters involving young persons aged 12 to 17 who are charged with criminal offenses. The Youth Court focuses on the rehabilitation and reintegration of young offenders and operates under the principles of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Criminal court
Criminal courts play a vital role in the justice system of Ontario. They are responsible for adjudicating criminal cases and ensuring that individuals accused of crimes are given a fair trial. By upholding the principles of due process, evidence evaluation, and legal arguments, criminal courts help maintain law and order and protect the rights of both the accused and the victims.
The specialized courts within the criminal justice system, such as the Youth Criminal Justice Court, Drug Treatment Court, and Mental Health Court, recognize the unique circumstances of certain individuals and aim to address their specific needs through alternative approaches
