Ontario Court of Justice – Toronto, ON

Ontario Court of Justice: Modern Justice in Toronto

The Ontario Court of Justice at 10 Armoury Street is a landmark judicial facility in Toronto, Ontario, representing a significant modernization of the province’s criminal justice infrastructure. Opened in 2023, this state-of-the-art courthouse consolidates six former criminal court locations into a single, accessible, and high-tech centre 🏢. Located just north of Toronto City Hall, the 17-storey building is designed to improve access to justice and operational efficiency for the Provincial Court system.

Core Judicial Services

As a key hub for the Ontario Court of Justice, this facility primarily handles criminal law matters. It serves as the central point for:

• Criminal Case Management: Processing intake and initial appearances for criminal charges.
• Bail Hearings: Dedicated courtrooms for youth and adult bail proceedings.
• Specialized Courts: The facility houses specialized therapeutic courts, including Drug Treatment Court, Mental Health Court, and Indigenous Peoples’ Court (Gladue Court), which aim to address the underlying causes of criminal behaviour ⚖️.
• Youth Justice: Handling matters under the Youth Criminal Justice Act with privacy and specialized care.

Accessibility and Facilities

The courthouse is built with inclusivity at its core, meeting high standards for barrier-free access. Features include:

• Fully Accessible Design: Barrier-free courtrooms, elevators, and washrooms to accommodate persons with disabilities ♿.
• Technology Integration: Advanced video conferencing and digital evidence presentation systems to support remote hearings and efficient trials.
• Public Spaces: A safe and navigable environment for victims, witnesses, and the public, with dedicated waiting areas and interview rooms.

Security and Protocol

Security is paramount at 10 Armoury Street. All visitors must undergo rigorous security screening upon entry, similar to airport protocols. Prohibited items include weapons, sharp objects, and cameras 📷. Cellphones must be silenced in courtrooms. It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appearance to clear security. Duty Counsel offices are available on-site to assist unrepresented individuals with legal advice and aid applications.

Location and Transit

Situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, the courthouse is easily accessible via public transit. It is a short walk from St. Patrick Station and Osgoode Station on the TTC Subway Line 1. The location is also served by major streetcar lines along Dundas and Queen Streets, making it convenient for residents across the GTA 🚇.