Courthouse Shuts Down Client Services

If you need to file documents or get help at the Saint John courthouse, you need to change your plans. The Court of King’s Bench closed its client services counter to walk in visitors until November 6. A government document cites staff shortages as the reason for the sudden shutdown.

Court services executive director Nancy Gatto issued the notice on October 23. The Court of King’s Bench handles civil, criminal, family, and appellate matters. During the closure, staff only handle emergency applications and motions requiring immediate court intervention. You can also get help if you have a scheduled hearing within the next 48 hours.

Starting November 9, the office shifts to an appointment only model until the end of the year. The government document leaves out what happens after December 31.

Government Remains Quiet on Funding

The Department of Justice and Public Safety declined an interview request from CBC News. Instead, the department released a statement saying court services management and the judiciary decided to close the office to walk in visitors. The department noted two new employees started work recently, and reassigned workers are helping fill the gaps. The province ignored questions about whether issues related to funding caused the shortage.

Impact on Local Justice

Michael Boudreau, a criminology professor at St. Thomas University, says this closure directly impacts lawyers and people representing themselves in court. He calls the situation a limit on access to justice.

“It is concerning that other than the appointment process starting in November, there does not appear to be any future plans to reverse this,” Boudreau told CBC News. “Are they actively seeking to hire someone to go back to staffing this on a more regular basis? And if there isn’t a plan in place to do that, that’s very worrisome because this is not really how a court should function.”

This counter closure adds to existing problems. New Brunswick currently faces a shortage of crown prosecutors. Boudreau notes these combined shortages slow down court proceedings. People who cannot afford a lawyer, including newcomers and those relying on legal aid, face the biggest hurdles when court services slow down.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Saint John courthouse client services counter reopen?

The counter remains closed to walk in visitors until November 6. Starting November 9, it operates by appointment only until the end of the year.

Can I get help if I have an emergency court matter?

Yes. The courthouse still processes emergency applications and motions requiring immediate intervention. Staff will also help you if you have a hearing scheduled within 48 hours.

Why did the courthouse close the client services counter?

A government memo cites staff shortages as the primary reason for the closure.

What happens to court services after December 31?

The provincial government has not announced a plan for client services operations in 2025.