When will the judge give their decision?
The judge has the option of giving their judgment, also called reasons for judgment or just reasons, either orally or in writing. If the judge decides to give their reasons orally, they may do so right after the trial or after a period of time has passed. If the judge waits some time to give their decision, either orally or in writing, this is known as "reserving judgment".
Judges try to give their decision as soon as they can. How long it takes depends on things like how urgent and complex the case is, and how busy the judge and court are.
Most judgments come out well within 6 months. Judges are expected to give their decision within 6 months unless there are special circumstances.
If the decision is taking longer
If the judge expects to need more than 6 months, they’ll usually let you know and give you a date when they expect to release their decision.
When you can ask about a delayed decision
You can write to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court to ask about your decision if:
- it’s been more than 6 months and the judge hasn’t given you an update, or
- the judge gave you an expected date, that date has passed, and you haven’t heard anything.
If something has changed and you now urgently need the decision, you can write to the judge who heard your case.
When you write to the court, follow the court’s guidelines for communicating with the court.
Once you receive the judgment you will know whether the court awarded you costs or whether you have to pay the other side's costs. See Costs and Expenses for more information.