Mid-level Criminal Case Management

LAO developed mid-level case management for criminal matters (and family case management) in response to feedback from the private bar during LAO’s province-wide consultations on discretion.

It provides lawyers managing costly, complex criminal cases likely to fall above $8,000 and below the Big Case Management threshold ($20,000 for non‑homicide, $30,000 for homicide) with cost certainty, predictability and adequate resources to deliver high‑quality, cost‑effective services.

LAO case managers collaborate with lawyers to develop this budget, comprised of tariff authorizations and blocks of hours.

What happens

The direction, “this case may be case managed” is included in certificates which cover a mid‑level case management eligible charge.

Step 1

Once it is clear costs are likely to exceed $8,000 and a preliminary hearing or trial date has been set, counsel completes a case management assessment form and forwards it to the LAO.

Step 2

LAO’s case manager reviews the assessment form, contacts counsel to discuss the case, and sets the budget, if indicated.

Step 3:

LAO adds case management authorizations to the certificate.

Step 4:

Counsel completes the work and submits the account. It will be paid within 14‑19 days, so long as the account matches or does not exceed the budget, breach any billing rules, is not late billed, etc.

List of charges eligible for Mid-level Case Management (MLCM)

Resources

• Summary sheet: Mid-level Case Management (criminal)
• Form: Criminal Mid-Level Case Management Assessment – Preliminary Hearings
• Form: Criminal Mid-Level Case Management Assessment – Trial