B.C. Judge fast-tracks right to die trial
Posted Aug 3, 2011 02:48:21 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER – A B.C. judge has ordered a speedy trial for a dying woman who wants to challenge Canada’s laws against assisted suicide.A lawyer for Gloria Taylor argued his client’s case should be heard by November because her condition is deteriorating and she wants the chance to die with dignity.
However, a lawyer for the federal government said such a fast trial should not be considered because the case is too complex to be prepared that quickly.
This morning, Justice Lynne Smith said she is satisfied that time is urgent. A four-week trial will be held beginning Nov. 15.
Taylor’s case is one of two in front of Smith, with right-to-die advocates saying it is time to reconsider a 1993 Supreme Court of Canada decision denying Sue Rodriguez the right to take her own life.
