The judge conducted a second case conference in a wrongful dismissal action, aiming to schedule a summary judgment motion.
The court noted the prevalence of "tactical pleadings" that hinder efficient resolution and emphasized counsel's dual duty of advocacy and objective advice.
Due to the persistence of complex, potentially tactical claims (e.g., suing directors personally, asserting cause for dismissal based on old issues), the case was deemed unsuitable for summary judgment.
Instead, the judge issued detailed directions for trial preparation, including managing a motion for costs appeal, developing a hybrid trial plan, identifying witnesses, preparing a joint book of documents with hyperlinks, and considering witness testimony by affidavit.
The court encouraged settlement before incurring significant trial costs.
