The Hon. Vibert Lampkin

This oral history interview with Justice Vibert Lampkin of the Ontario Court of Justice provides valuable insights into the transformation of criminal court administration and procedure from 1990 to 2000. Lampkin discusses the dramatic impact of the Askov decision on trial delays, which led to the dismissal of 50,000-60,000 cases in Ontario and forced courts to implement better case management systems. He describes the evolution from informal scheduling to computerized trial coordination at the Newmarket courthouse.

Lampkin offers detailed observations on judicial administration, comparing the leadership styles of Chief Justices Fred Hayes and Sid Linden, and discusses the important role of the Ontario Court Judges’ Association in improving working conditions and salaries. He provides commentary on significant legal developments including Charter rights applications, conditional sentencing reforms, preliminary hearing procedures, and the potential for unified criminal courts. The interview also touches on courthouse facilities, judicial collegiality, and the changing nature of criminal practice in Ontario.

Throughout the discussion, Lampkin reflects on his experience serving at various courthouses, his involvement with New Leaf (an organization for emotionally disturbed adults), and his views on sentencing philosophy. His perspective as a judge who witnessed the transition from political appointments to merit-based selection provides valuable historical context for understanding the modernization of Ontario’s provincial court system during this critical decade.

This description was written by AI and may contain some inaccuracies.