Pre-trials in Criminal Proceedings Before the Ontario Court of Justice | DefendCharges.Lawyer
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Pre-trials in Criminal Proceedings Before the Ontario Court of Justice



Last Updated: July 04 2026

Question: What is the difference between a Crown pre-trial and a judicial pre-trial in Ontario criminal court?

Answer: Pre-trials in Ontario Court of Justice help the Crown and defence review key evidence and possible outcomes before trial, and DefendCharges.Lawyer can help you understand what to expect and how to prepare your next steps in your case.  A Crown pre-trial is run by the Crown prosecutor, typically focused on assessing the strength of the Crown’s case and discussing whether the matter can be resolved through an offer or agreement.  A judicial pre-trial is run by a judge, who can also discuss the evidence and outcomes and may offer suggestions on resolving the case without a trial.  If you want practical guidance for your situation, contact DefendCharges.Lawyer at (647) 977-5997 to book a free 1/2 hour consultation.

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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.

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