The outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is causing significant disruptions across all industries in Canada and many are finding themselves planning for an uncertain future. We appreciate the complexity of issues stemming from the outbreak and the speed with which the situation is developing.

We at McLennan Ross have two main objectives as the situation evolves: ensuring the safety and well-being of our lawyers, staff, clients, and visitors to our office, and continuing to provide guidance to our clients through this uncertain terrain. We are closely monitoring new developments and adhering to the recommendations of public health authorities. At this time, all three of our offices remain open.

We have put in place the following measures to promote a safe and healthy workplace, and continue to serve our clients without disruption:

  • We have encouraged all lawyers, staff and visitors to practice proper hand hygiene, particularly frequent hand washing. Hand sanitizer is readily available throughout our offices.
  • We have asked all lawyers and staff to self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms, and to stay home when ill.
  • We are limiting in person meetings and replacing with telephone or video-conference, whenever possible.
  • We are ensuring the firm is as digitally-enabled as possible in the event lawyers and staff are required to work from home.
  • We have imposed travel restrictions and are now limiting non-essential work travel outside of Alberta.
  • We are monitoring personal travel and are encouraging lawyers and staff to follow local and government guidelines as they evolve.
  • All firm members are asked to self-quarantine for 14 days if returning from outside of Canada.

We would like to bring to your attention that, as of March 15th, 2020, a State of Emergency has been declared in Calgary and the Alberta Court system is now closed.

All non-essential matters (Justice and Masters Chambers, half day Special Chambers, Case Conferences and trials) are adjourned sine die at least until March 30, 2020. If you have a matter that has an application scheduled to be heard over the next two weeks, it is automatically adjourned and Counsel will have to work out the next date for the Application by consent or rebook that Application after March 30, 2020.

All JDRs, Pre-trial Conferences and Case Management bookings are cancelled and Counsel will have to reschedule once the Court is taking those bookings.

Our firm intends to keep our clients updated on both specific client matters and generally as the situation continues to evolve.

You can find our most recent updates by clicking the links below. We will continue to update our website with important information, developments and their implications.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.