Staffing shortages at the Saint John Court of Kings Bench have forced the client services counter to close to the public. If you need to file paperwork or speak with court staff, you will face new hurdles. The counter remains closed until November 6. After that, in person visits will require an appointment through the end of 2026.

According to a memo obtained by CTV News Atlantic, Court Services executive director Nancy Gatto informed staff of the changes on October 23.

Emergency Services Remain Available

The court still processes emergency applications and motions requiring immediate intervention. If you have a matter scheduled within 48 hours, you can still access the services desk. Starting November 9, all other inquiries require a booked appointment. The memo does not outline plans for 2027.

Legal Professionals React

The sudden change caught local legal professionals by surprise. Carly Parish, a managing partner with Lutz Parish Gerrish in Hampton, called the closure a surprise.

“The lawyers at our firm are trying to work through it and trying to get organized,” Parish said. “I can’t imagine for court staff, I mean, they must be very overworked and overwhelmed. The court system is already overworked and overwhelmed, as you can appreciate, especially in a family law.”

Parish noted that Saint John is one of the busiest jurisdictions in New Brunswick. She expects an adjustment period but believes the appointment model will function similarly to protocols used during the pandemic.

Challenges for Self Representing Residents

The closure presents significant barriers for residents navigating the legal system without a lawyer. St. Thomas University Criminology and Criminal Justice professor Dr. Michael Boudreau expressed concern over access to justice.

“This means that lawyers and people who are self representing, whether it be in criminal matters or family court matters, that this will take longer now for them to file the necessary paperwork,” Boudreau said. He emphasized that family court matters are particularly daunting without legal training.

“Without the kind of professional service that can be provided with an in person service, my concern is that people may say, okay, I cannot do this and not follow the paperwork. That could be a very serious matter,” Boudreau added.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Saint John court client services counter reopen?

The counter remains closed to the public until November 6. Starting November 9, you must book an appointment for in person services.

How long will the appointment only model last?

The appointment only requirement is in place until the end of 2026.

Can I still get help for an emergency court matter?

Yes. The services desk remains accessible for emergency applications, motions requiring immediate intervention, and matters scheduled to be heard within 48 hours.

What types of cases does the Court of Kings Bench handle?

The court has two divisions. The trial division handles major civil and criminal cases. The family division deals with divorce, adoptions, child support, and child protection matters.