News Release Archive
JUSTICE--STREAMLINING OF SHERIFFS OFFICES ANNOUNCED ------------------------------------------------------------ Justice Minister Bill Gillis today announced the streamlining of services provided by sheriffs' offices across the province. The move is designed to increase efficiency, while allowing sheriffs to concentrate on critical areas of operation such as court security and prisoner transportation. Effective April 1, 1996, civil document service will be reduced, and will become the responsibility of the parties in the action. Documents can be served by any adult, so the service can be provided by the private sector. The restructuring will mean the deletion of 21 positions. However, due to reassignment and attrition, the actual number of layoffs will total only seven. The restructuring means that documents which relate to actions between private parties will no longer be served by sheriffs. This includes divorce documents, originating documents notices, and execution orders. As well, sheriffs will no longer serve documents for the Residential Tenancies Boards, Workers Compensation Board, and execution orders relating to the Department of Finance. In future, those initiating the action, or the relevant government department, will be responsible for service and costs. Sheriffs will continue to serve family court documents, provincial fine warrants, and legal aid documents. They will also continue with responsibilities relating to the federal marshall, will continue to receive and disburse monies collected as a result of private service of execution orders and will conduct foreclosures sales. Sheriffs will also continue to provide court security and prisoner transportation. In order to ensure a smooth transition of services, staff of the Department of Justice will be conducting meetings with lawyers and staff around the province to discuss the actual implementation of the changes, and will seek input from those affected. "We believe this approach makes good economic sense, and it provides an opportunity for the private sector to further expand in this area," said Dr. Gillis. "We have consulted widely regarding the role of sheriffs with the legal community, the collections community and other government departments before deciding on this course of action. We are able to realize substantial cost savings, while continuing with the critical service areas for sheriffs." An annual net gain of approximately $460,000 is expected as a result of this initiative. -30- EDITORS NOTE: A backgrounder can be obtained by calling 902-424-4492. Contact: Michele McKinnon 902-424-6811 trp Jan. 29, 1996 - 4:25 p.m.