982. The judge may, on his or her own initiative, if it is the judge’s opinion that the ends of justice will be better served, visit the premises or order an expert’s appraisal of the facts related to the case or a certified report by a competent person designated by the judge.
The procedure applicable to the appraisal or report is determined by the judge.
The judge rules on the costs relating to the appraisal or report and determines whether they are to be borne by one of the parties or by both or, if the judge considers it appropriate and that the ends of justice will be better served, by the Minister of Justice.
1971, c. 86, s. 1; 1975, c. 83, s. 74; 1995, c. 39, s. 17; 2002, c. 7, s. 148.