What is the test for a judicial stay of proceedings when a judge finds that the delay is prima facie unreasonable?

British Columbia, Canada


The following excerpt is from R. v. Alliston, 2000 BCPC 60 (CanLII):

A finding that the delay is prima facie unreasonable is not the end of the inquiry. Even lengthy delays can be tolerated if the accused suffers no substantial prejudice. In each case a balance must be achieved between the accused's right to be brought to trial within a reasonable time and society's interest in having criminal charges prosecuted. Thus the presence or absence of prejudice becomes an extremely significant factor in determining whether an unreasonable delay warrants a judicial stay of proceedings. As described by Sopinka J. in Regina v. Morin, supra: The application of the guideline will also be influenced by the presence or absence of prejudice. If an accused is in custody or, while not in custody, subject to restrictive bail terms or conditions or otherwise experiences substantial prejudice, the period of acceptable institutional delay may be shortened to reflect the court's concern. On the other hand, in a case in which there is no prejudice or prejudice is slight, the guideline may be applied to reflect this fact. ... ... In a case in which prejudice is not inferred and is not otherwise proved, the basis for the enforcement of the individual right is seriously undermined.

Other Questions


What is the test for a finding that a judge must not make a finding which would directly contradict a finding previously made by another judge? (British Columbia, Canada)
What is the test for dismissing a judicial review proceeding for unreasonable delay? (British Columbia, Canada)
Does a judicial review decision by a chambers judge who failed to take the necessary steps to review a decision by the chambers judge? (British Columbia, Canada)
What is the test for unreasonable delay in advancing the application for a judicial review? (British Columbia, Canada)
What is the test for judicial review of the findings of the Disability Review Officer's findings of fact, law or mixed fact and law? (British Columbia, Canada)
In what circumstances will a judge relitigate a finding in a motion where the original finding was invalid? (British Columbia, Canada)
What is the test for finding that a plaintiff has made out a prima facie case of unjust enrichment? (British Columbia, Canada)
What is the scope of appellate review of a finding that a judge err in proceeding to determine the substantive issue by way of summary trial? (British Columbia, Canada)
Can a judge interfere with a trial judge's findings of fact? (British Columbia, Canada)
Can a judicial review application be dismissed for unreasonable delay? (British Columbia, Canada)
X



Alexi white


"The most advanced legal research software ever built."

Trusted by top litigators from across North America.