Form 18C.2 (CSR-18c2) – Trial Readiness Report (Where Trial Readiness Court Not Held)

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province or State: Ontario

What is a Form 18C.2 (CSR-18c2) – Trial Readiness Report (Where Trial Readiness Court Not Held)?

Form 18C.2 is a standardized trial management form. It belongs to the Criminal Proceedings Rules of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario. You use it to confirm that a criminal trial can proceed as scheduled. It replaces an in‑person trial readiness court where one is not held in your region. The form gives the court a clear, joint snapshot of readiness, logistics, and outstanding issues.

You use the form in a criminal case set for trial in the Superior Court of Justice. You complete it after pretrial steps are done and before the trial starts. It does not replace a judicial pretrial or earlier scheduling events. It is the last formal confirmation that the trial is organized and ready to start on time.

Who typically uses this form?

Crown counsel completes and signs it. Defence counsel also completes and signs it. If you are a self‑represented accused, you will complete and sign it yourself. In cases with co‑accused, each defence counsel may sign, or a coordinated joint report may be filed. The trial coordinator relies on it. The presiding trial judge may review it to plan rulings and daily flow.

You need this form to show that the case can proceed on the booked date. You confirm that disclosure is complete. You confirm that witnesses are subpoenaed. You confirm that expert notices have been served. You confirm that voir dires and applications are identified and scheduled. You identify interpreters, technology needs, and special orders. You give the final trial length estimate. You flag any issue that could delay the first day of trial.

Typical usage scenarios

The Crown and defence need to confirm expert notices and exhibit management. It also applies to a judge‑alone trial with multiple voir dires. You set out the sequence of motions and time required. It is used in multi‑accused prosecutions where the witness order is complex. It is used in single‑accused trials where logistics still matter, like interpreter booking, secure transport, or remote testimony. It is used when your region does not run a live readiness court before the trial date.

The form aligns both sides on what will happen in court. It identifies what remains to be argued before the jury is sworn. It tells the court what rulings are required to start the evidence. It reduces adjournment risk. It ensures that courtroom staff schedule interpreters, technology, and space. It helps the court assign a judge for the right number of days.

When Would You Use a Form 18C.2 (CSR-18c2) – Trial Readiness Report (Where Trial Readiness Court Not Held)?

You use Form 18C.2 after a judicial pretrial and once a fixed trial date exists. You submit it in the lead‑up to that date, on the timeline set by your region. The report is used instead of attending a trial readiness court. You would not use it if your region runs a readiness court. In that case, a different process applies.

If you are Crown counsel, you use the form to confirm trial logistics. You list the number of witnesses and their availability. You confirm expert compliance and exhibit needs. You tell the court if you will tender admissions or use video evidence. You indicate whether the matter remains on track for the booked length.

If you are the defence counsel, you use the form to confirm your readiness. You identify defence applications and voir dires. You confirm whether you will call evidence and whether you will call experts. You set out the interpreter’s needs for your client or defence witnesses. You confirm that you have made a disclosure and that you have reviewed the case with your client.

If you are a self‑represented accused, you use the form to confirm basic readiness. You state what you will ask the court to decide before trial. You list witnesses you plan to call, if known. You identify any accommodations you need. You confirm your understanding of the schedule and trial length. You identify if you need legal assistance on a narrow issue.

Use the form when you foresee logistics affecting day one. For example, the accused is in custody in another region. You need to arrange transport in advance. Or your trial involves large digital files that require courtroom playback. You need the right hardware ready. Or your jury trial has several preliminary issues that must be argued before selection.

Use the form when special orders are anticipated. This may include publication bans that should be addressed early. It may include witness support for vulnerable witnesses. It may include protective measures for sensitive exhibits. The form lets you flag these needs so the court can plan materials, staff, and timing.

Use the form when you have identified potential resolutions. You may be in late‑stage discussions. You still confirm readiness, in case the trial proceeds. You explain that resolution talks are ongoing. You avoid surprise adjournments. You give the judge and coordinator realistic expectations.

Legal Characteristics of the Form 18C.2 (CSR-18c2) – Trial Readiness Report (Where Trial Readiness Court Not Held)

This form is part of the Criminal Proceedings Rules that govern Superior Court criminal cases. Those Rules are binding on parties and counsel. The court uses the form to manage the trial process. While it is not a contract, it is an official filing. The court relies on it. Your statements in the report carry weight.

The form is enforceable through the court’s case management powers. The court can make orders based on the information you provide. The court can set deadlines, require additional filings, or direct a further pretrial. If your report shows that key steps are not complete, the court can address that before trial. The court may control the evidence sequence to keep the case on track.

Accuracy matters. If you declare readiness and you are not ready, the court may respond. The court can require explanations on the record. It can adjust scheduling to limit wasted time. In serious cases, the court may consider remedies for late disclosure or late applications. The court can also draw scheduling inferences when conflicts arise.

The form helps enforce compliance with notice obligations. The report confirms expert notices and report exchanges. It confirms whether any pretrial applications will be argued. It confirms service status and filing timelines. This gives the court assurance that trial fairness will not be compromised by surprises.

The report also supports the open court principle while protecting fairness. It records publication bans and protective orders requested. It identifies any measures needed for vulnerable participants. It ensures that those measures are in place before evidence begins. It reduces mid‑trial delays.

Confidentiality and privacy remain important. Avoid placing sensitive personal data in the public form if not necessary. You can provide detailed contact information to the other side separately. The form should contain only what the court needs to manage the trial. Keep victim and witness personal identifiers to a minimum. Use initials where appropriate if a publication ban is in place.

Filing and service are regulated. You must serve the other side and file with the court or trial coordinator. You must meet the deadline set by the region or the pretrial judge. Late or missing reports can trigger a direction to attend before a judge. The court may require an explanation. The court may convert the matter into a special scheduling appearance.

The form does not decide the case. It does not lock in your trial strategy. It does not waive your client’s rights. It does commit you to honest and reasonable scheduling positions. It commits you to identified time estimates and step completion. If circumstances change, you should promptly notify the other side and the coordinator.

How to Fill Out a Form 18C.2 (CSR-18c2) – Trial Readiness Report (Where Trial Readiness Court Not Held)

Step 1: Identify the court and file.

Enter “Superior Court of Justice, Ontario” and the court location. Include the full style of the cause, for example, “R. v. [Accused].” List each accused if there are co‑accused. Add the court file number for each accused. Verify that the numbers match your endorsements and endorsements sheet.

Step 2: Enter the scheduled trial details.

Record the trial start date and time. Indicate the mode of trial, judge‑alone or jury. State the current estimate of total days. Break out any time needed for pre‑trial motions. Note whether the trial is fixed or backup. Confirm blackout dates, if any, already set by the court.

Step 3: Identify the parties and counsel.

List Crown counsel’s name, phone, and email. List the defence counsel’s name, phone, and email. If you are self‑represented, enter your contact details. Name the instructing counsel or agent if different. Provide backup contacts for urgent scheduling issues. Confirm who will appear on day one.

Step 4: State custody and transport status.

Indicate whether the accused is in custody. If in custody, state the institution. Confirm transport arrangements for the first day. Indicate whether video or audio appearances are requested. If on release, confirm that the accused will attend in person unless directed.

Step 5: Confirm disclosure status.

State whether disclosure is complete. Identify any outstanding items and expected delivery dates. Confirm that digital files are accessible and playable. Indicate whether any new disclosure is anticipated. If new items exist, state whether they affect the trial date.

Step 6: List interpreters and accessibility needs.

Identify whether the accused needs an interpreter and the language. Identify known interpreter needs for witnesses. Confirm that interpreter services have been booked. Flag any accessibility accommodations required. Include details like assistive devices or remote appearance needs.

Step 7: Identify applications and voir dires.

List all applications already decided. Summarize pending applications, such as admissibility issues or procedural motions. Indicate whether you seek any protective orders. Give time estimates for each voir dire. State who will argue first on each issue. Indicate whether a ruling is needed before jury selection.

Step 8: Address jury selection if applicable.

Estimate time for jury selection. Identify any anticipated challenges, such as a large panel need. Indicate any pretrial publicity concerns you will raise. Confirm that counsel will prepare proposed instructions as directed. State whether any motion must be heard before selection.

Step 9: Provide witness information and order.

For the Crown, give the total number of witnesses. Identify if any are expert witnesses. Indicate whether subpoenas have been issued. Confirm witness availability for the first days. For the defence, list anticipated witnesses if known. If uncertain, state that the defence position will be confirmed after the Crown’s case.

Step 10: Confirm expert evidence compliance.

State whether notices have been served. Confirm that reports have been exchanged. Indicate whether any expert challenges will be brought. Attach or reference the expert list with contact and discipline. Provide time estimates for direct and cross‑examination of experts.

Step 11: Describe exhibits and digital evidence.

Identify expected exhibits, including large or sensitive items. Note any audio or video recordings for playback. Confirm that you have tested the format with court technology. Indicate any need for screens, speakers, or special software. State who will manage the technology at trial.

Step 12: Set out admissions and agreed facts.

Identify any proposed admissions to streamline evidence. Indicate whether you will file an agreed statement of facts. Confirm whether you agree on the admissibility of certain records. Note any stipulations about the chain of custody or authenticity. This reduces witness days.

Step 13: Flag publication bans and protective orders.

State any bans already in place. Identify any new bans you intend to seek. Indicate whether witnesses need support measures. Include proposed timing to address these orders. Ensure this happens before the jury is sworn to avoid delay.

Step 14: Outline daily schedule and time estimates.

Propose a trial day schedule, such as start and end times. Indicate breaks needed for interpreters or vulnerable witnesses. Provide a day‑by‑day estimate for the first week. Show how voir dires fit into the schedule. Keep estimates realistic and conservative.

Step 15: Confirm readiness of materials.

State that briefs, will‑say statements, and key rulings are organized. Confirm that physical exhibits are available and labeled. Confirm that witness lists with contact details are current. Indicate that counsel have exchanged any demonstratives. Note any translation or transcription needs.

Step 16: Report on resolution discussions.

Indicate whether discussions are ongoing. State if a resolution is unlikely or still possible. Confirm that trial preparation continues regardless. Do not include privileged details. Keep the statement factual and neutral.

Step 17: Address coordination with co‑accused.

Identify whether the co‑accused counsel has signed this report. If separate reports will be filed, note that. Confirm whether you have aligned the witness order across all defence counsel. Indicate any severance issues already ruled on or pending.

Step 18: Provide scheduling constraints.

Identify any fixed constraints already approved by the court. Include religious holidays or immovable medical appointments. Avoid listing avoidable conflicts. Confirm that counsel are otherwise available for the full trial window. This helps prevent late conflicts.

Step 19: Attach schedules if required.

Some regions require attachments for witness lists or exhibit summaries. Attach a short schedule with names, roles, and time estimates. Keep attachments concise. Do not include unnecessary personal data. Use initials where a publication ban applies.

Step 20: Review for completeness and accuracy.

Cross‑check names, file numbers, and dates. Confirm that the other side agrees with the report content. Resolve minor differences before filing if possible. If you disagree, note the disagreement clearly and briefly. Keep the tone factual.

Step 21: Signatures and certification.

The Crown signs and dates the report. Defence counsel or the accused signs and dates the report. Include printed names beneath signatures. By signing, you confirm the accuracy of the information. You also confirm your readiness to proceed as stated.

Step 22: Service and filing.

Serve the signed report on the other side. File the report with the trial coordinator or as directed. Meet the filing deadline set by your region. Use the approved method of delivery. Keep proof of service and filing.

Step 23: Update if circumstances change.

If a key fact changes, notify the other side promptly. Contact the trial coordinator with an updated status if needed. Consider filing an amended report if directed. Do not wait for the first trial day to raise new issues. Early notice reduces adjournment risk.

Practical tips help you complete the form efficiently. Use clear, short sentences for each item. Avoid jargon. Include only facts needed for scheduling and fairness. Quantify time estimates and witness counts. Confirm additional resources with the coordinator before you file.

Common pitfalls are avoidable. Do not understate trial length to secure a date. That risks mid‑trial overrun and disruption. Do not gloss over unfinished disclosure issues. Identify them and give a realistic plan. Do not assume technology will work. Test it and name the person responsible. Do not omit interpreter confirmation. Book and confirm early.

If you are self‑represented, keep it simple and precise. List what you know and what you do not know. State if you plan to call witnesses. If you are unsure, say so. Ask the coordinator what support is available on logistics. The court expects clarity, not perfection.

If your case has sensitive features, plan ahead. For vulnerable witnesses, coordinate support and scheduling. For large expert records, exchange materials well in advance. For out‑of‑province witnesses, arrange remote testimony if permitted. Reflect these steps in the form. That shows real readiness.

Your goal is to give the court a dependable plan. The form should let the judge see the first week clearly. It should show who speaks when, for how long, and on which issues. It should show that the evidence can start without delay. When done well, the report saves time for everyone.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Trial readiness means both sides can start the trial as scheduled. On this form, you confirm you are ready or explain what still needs to be done. You also estimate how long the trial will take.
• An indictment is the formal document setting out the charges to be tried in this court. On the form, you should ensure the charge information matches the current indictment.
• Disclosure is the material that the prosecution must give the defence. That includes reports, statements, and exhibits. On the form, you confirm whether disclosure is complete and list anything still outstanding that could affect the trial.
• Pre-trial applications are requests you ask the trial judge to decide before or during the trial. Examples include admissibility of evidence, expert issues, or severance. On the form, you list each application and estimate the time needed to argue it.
• A voir dire is a hearing within the trial to decide if evidence is admissible. On the form, you indicate whether you expect any voir dires and how much time they will add.
• Agreed facts are items both sides accept as true. These reduce the issues for the trial. On the form, you note any admissions or agreed statements of fact reached, or identify where agreement is expected.
• Witness availability refers to whether your witnesses can attend on the scheduled dates. On the form, you confirm the number and type of witnesses, any scheduling limits, and whether subpoenas are required.
• Expert evidence involves an opinion from a qualified expert. It comes with notice and a report. On the form, you state whether expert reports are served, if the expert will testify, and if any expert issues remain.
• Interpreter or accommodation needs cover language interpretation and accessibility supports. On the form, you identify any needs so the court can arrange them before the trial date.
• Time estimate is the total court time needed, including openings, witnesses, breaks, and any voir dires. On the form, you provide a realistic estimate and flag any factors that could change the length.
• Jury selection refers to choosing a jury if the trial will be by jury. On the form, you indicate whether the trial is judge-alone or jury, and include time for jury selection in your estimate if needed.

FAQs

Do you need to file this form if the court already set a trial readiness hearing?

No. This form is for cases where a trial readiness court will not be held. If the court schedules a readiness hearing, you follow those directions instead. If you are unsure, check the endorsement or direction you received. When in doubt, file the form and ask for confirmation.

Do you file the report jointly with the other side, or on your own?

You should confer and aim to submit a single report that captures both positions. If a joint report is not possible, file your own report. Clearly state your position and note any disagreements. Either way, confirm the other side received a copy.

Do you have to list witness names on the form?

Most trial readiness reports ask for numbers and types of witnesses, not names. If the form asks for details, provide what is requested. Avoid personal contact information unless the court requires it. You should still line up attendance and subpoenas outside the form.

Do you include pre-trial applications and voir dires even if you are still deciding?

Yes. List the applications and voir dires you expect, with time estimates. If you are unsure, note that the item is “anticipated” and give the best estimate. Update the court if your plan changes.

Do you need to confirm whether the trial is judge-alone or jury?

Yes. The form usually asks this. Indicate the mode of trial and factor it into your time estimate. Include time for jury selection if the trial will be by jury.

Do you have to file the form even if both sides agree they are ready?

Yes. The report tells the court the case is ready and sets expectations for trial time. It also flags any remaining issues. An agreement helps, but the court still needs a record.

Do you need to serve the other side when you file the report?

Yes. Provide a copy to the other side on the same day you file, unless a joint report is filed. Keep proof of service. This avoids surprises and supports efficient scheduling.

Can you amend the report if something changes after filing?

Yes. File an updated report as soon as possible and notify the other side. Flag the changes clearly, such as new time estimates or new applications. Prompt updates help avoid adjournments.

Do you need to attend court after filing the report?

Often, no. The court reviews the report and may issue directions by endorsement. If the court needs clarification, it may set a brief appearance. Monitor your file and respond quickly to any direction.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the Form 18C.2 (CSR-18c2) – Trial Readiness Report (Where Trial Readiness Court Not Held)

Before signing: Information and documents you need

• The current indictment and the endorsed information from earlier stages.
• The scheduled trial dates and whether it is judge-alone or jury.
• Up-to-date contact details for all counsel and self-represented parties.
• Confirmation of disclosure status, with a list of any outstanding items.
• A current witness plan: number of civilian, police, and expert witnesses.
• Expert reports, notices, and any challenges you anticipate.
• A list of pre-trial applications and voir dires you expect, with time estimates.
• Any agreed facts or admissions reached or proposed.
• Technology needs: audio/video playback, remote testimony, or exhibit display.
• Interpreter or accessibility needs for any participant.
• Dates when any witness or counsel cannot attend during the scheduled trial.
• A workable total time estimate that includes openings, breaks, and rulings.
• A draft of proposed daily scheduling (for example, half-day start if jurors).
• Confirmation from the other side on points of agreement and disagreement.

During signing: Sections to verify carefully

• Case identifiers: court file number, style of cause, and all accused names.
• Trial dates and mode of trial, including jury selection if applicable.
• Disclosure status boxes and descriptions match the actual file state.
• Witness counts and expert details are accurate and current.
• Pre-trial applications and voir dires are listed with realistic time estimates.
• Any agreed facts are described clearly, without privileged details.
• Scheduling limits and availability are complete and specific.
• Technology, interpreter, and accessibility needs are checked and noted.
• Positions of both sides are captured, or disagreements are identified.
• Signatures, names, and dates are correct and legible.
• Attachments or schedules are labeled and referenced in the form.
• Page numbers are sequential; no blank fields that can cause confusion.

After signing: Filing, notifying, and storing

• File the report with the criminal office handling your trial file.
• Serve a copy on the other side the same day you file, unless joint.
• Keep proof of filing and service in your file.
• Calendar any next deadlines noted in the report or court directions.
• Share the field report with your team and update your trial plan.
• Monitor for any court endorsement or request for clarification.
• If anything changes, prepare and file an amended report promptly.
• Store a clean, searchable copy for quick reference at trial.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Leaving disclosure issues vague

• Don’t forget to identify exactly what disclosure is outstanding and why it matters. Vague notes like “some disclosure pending” do not help. Consequence: the court may extend time or push the trial, or refuse to accept your estimate.

Underestimating time

• Don’t underestimate the time for openings, voir dires, and rulings. Add realistic buffers. Consequence: you may run out of court time, risk a mistrial, or face an adjournment mid-trial.

Ignoring interpreter or technology needs

• Don’t wait to flag interpreters, remote witnesses, or playback needs. Consequence: lost trial time, rescheduling, or exclusion of evidence that cannot be presented properly.

Failing to confer with the other side

• Don’t file without trying to agree on facts, exhibits, or scheduling. Consequence: longer trials, duplicative witnesses, and avoidable disputes in front of the jury or judge.

Not updating the report when plans change

• Don’t assume small changes do not matter. Consequence: the court may be surprised on day one, leading to delays or adverse scheduling decisions.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

File the report correctly

• File with the criminal office that manages your Superior Court trial file. Use the method directed for your location. Check any filing cut-off in your scheduling directions.

Serve the other side

• Send the field report to the other side the same day. Use a reliable method and keep proof. If you filed jointly, confirm both sides received the final version.

Confirm logistics

• Check whether the court issued any directions after reviewing your report. Look for endorsements on time estimates, applications, or technology. Calendar any deadlines.

Plan your amendments

• If disclosure arrives late or a witness changes, update your plan. File an amended report if the change affects readiness, witnesses, or estimates. Send it to the other side.

Lock in witnesses

• Confirm attendance for each witness and arrange subpoenas where needed. Address conflicts early. Provide travel and scheduling details to keep the trial on track.

Finalize pre-trial applications

• Draft, serve, and file application materials within the directed timelines. Share time estimates. Identify any applications that could be decided on written materials.

Manage exhibits and technology

• Mark proposed exhibits and prepared exhibit lists. Test all media in the courtroom format you will use. Arrange any remote testimony logistics in advance.

Prepare for day one

• Bring the filed report and any amendments. Have contact details for all witnesses, experts, and interpreters. Arrive ready to address any last-minute scheduling issues.

Stay reachable

• Make sure the court and the other side can reach you quickly. Update your contact details if they change. Quick responses help avoid preventable delays.