The applicant solicitor sought directions regarding the continuation of a solicitor-client assessment of accounts, which had been postponed by an Assessment Officer due to an automatic stay under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act against some respondents.
The court clarified the effect of an appeal on the bankruptcy stay and, exercising its discretion, lifted the stay to permit the assessment to proceed.
The court also provided directions to the Assessment Officer regarding the exclusion of observers and the disregard of unsworn ex parte communications.