What Is an Early Resolution Meeting? Ontario Traffic Ticket Guide

When you choose Option 2 on the back of your Ontario traffic ticket and request an early resolution meeting, you're setting up an informal discussion between your representative and a Crown prosecutor before any trial date is set. This is the stage where the vast majority of traffic ticket outcomes actually get decided.

What Happens at the Meeting

Your paralegal, or you if you're self-represented, sits down with the assistant Crown attorney assigned to the case. The prosecutor reviews the officer's notes and disclosure and has discretion to offer a resolution. Common outcomes include:

• Reduction to a lesser offence with fewer demerit points, for example 30-over speeding reduced to 15-over
• Reduction to a zero-point offence
• Fine reduction, which is less common but does happen
• Withdrawal of the charge if the Crown doesn't have enough evidence
• Setting a trial date if no acceptable resolution is on the table

Why Paralegals Get Better Outcomes

Local paralegals and traffic lawyers often know the Crown attorneys who handle traffic matters at their courthouse. They understand which reductions are routinely offered at each court, which prosecutors are more open to negotiation, and what disclosure to request. They also know which technical defences to raise if no acceptable resolution is offered.

Do You Have to Be There?

No. If you hire a paralegal or lawyer, they go on your behalf. You don't need to take a day off work or travel to the courthouse. For most people, that alone is one of the biggest practical benefits of getting representation.

What If No Deal Is Reached?

If the meeting doesn't produce an acceptable outcome, your case gets scheduled for trial. Your paralegal keeps representing you, requests full disclosure, and prepares a defence. Trial outcomes are less predictable, but officers not appearing in court is common enough that many cases still resolve at this stage.