As a province and nation we are facing an unprecedented challenge with the coronavirus (COVID-19) that is impacting all business sectors.
The partners and management team at Cunningham, Swan, Carty, Little & Bonham LLP have taken steps to ensure the continuity of operations during this difficult time. The firm’s response to the situation continues to evolve as the advice of medical authorities changes and further provincial and federal government efforts unfold. The well-being of our clients, staff, lawyers and their families, and the broader community, remains a key priority as we collectively respond to the situation.
The offices of Cunningham Swan remain open, with enhanced measures for safety during meetings and for our staff generally. In the event that you are unwell, or you may have been exposed to someone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please reschedule any appointments to visit our offices to reduce the risk to others. The office will remain open so long as it is permitted by government authorities and safe to do so. Please know that we are actively limiting in-person client meetings and employing our existing and enhanced technology for video and teleconferencing to facilitate meetings. Our staff and lawyers are equipped to work remotely and Cunningham Swan remains able to serve your business and legal needs with continued service should a physical office closure become necessary.
The Ontario Court of Justice and Superior Court of Justice have suspended operations effective Tuesday, March 17, 2020 and until further notice. All criminal, family and civil matters scheduled to be heard are adjourned, with limited exceptions for urgent matters. Various administrative tribunals have followed suit and are limiting adjudication. Where procedural rules or court orders require the regular filing of documents during this emergency period, and it becomes impossible to file at the courthouse or the courthouse is believed to be unsafe, parties can expect the Court to grant extensions of time once the Court’s normal operations resume. Parties must still comply with orders and rules requiring the service or delivery of documents as between parties. In the event that courthouses become closed or are inaccessible due to safety concerns, and to preserve limitation periods under the Limitations Act, there continues to be ability to file claims. Cunningham Swan will ensure that all matters effected by the suspension are addressed appropriately. Our litigation lawyers are closely monitoring the evolving situation and will ensure continuing deadlines are met.
