547Notice of pre-trial conference

547 Notice of pre-trial conference

(1)  After a certificate of readiness or a joint letter of readiness has been filed, the registrar is to give notice of a pre-trial conference to the parties.

(2)  A notice of pre-trial conference –

(a) is to be given at least 7 days before the day fixed for the conference; and

(b) is to specify the date, time and place of the conference; and

(c) may state generally the matters that the judge requires to be dealt with at the conference.

(3)  If the registrar considers that, after a certificate or joint letter of readiness has been filed, a pre-trial conference may be unnecessary, the registrar is to refer the certificate or letter, together with the file to which it relates, to a judge.

(4)  On receiving the certificate or letter and file, a judge may order that –

(a) a pre-trial conference is not to be held; and

(b) that the action or proceeding be listed for trial.

(5)  The registrar is not to give a notice of pre-trial conference if an order is made under subrule (4) .

(6)  A judge, without an application, may at any time direct that no pre-trial conference be held and that the action or proceeding be listed for trial.

(7)  A judge may –

(a) direct that a pre-trial conference be held by telephone, video link or other means; and

(b) give directions as to the manner in which the conference is to be held.