Trial of Halifax-area dentist to proceed in October despite legal switch - Action News
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Nova Scotia

Trial of Halifax-area dentist to proceed in October despite legal switch

The assault trial of Halifax-area pediatric dentist, Dr. Errol Gaum, is still scheduled to proceed this fall, despite a last-minute change in lawyers.

Dr. Errol Gaum is accused of assaulting several patients over 50-year period

A man with white hair wearing a blazer, leaning on a cane stands in front of a metal detector at a court house in Halifax.
Halifax dentist Errol Gaum appeared frail and moved slowly with the assistance of a cane during an appearance in Halifax provincial court on Aug. 29, 2024. (Craig Paisley/CBC)

The assault trial of a Halifax-area pediatric dentist is still scheduled to proceed this fall, despite a last-minute change in lawyers.

Dr. Errol Gaum is accused of physically assaulting childrenthrough his practice over a 50-year period. The legal case has been boiled down to five complainants and seven witnesses who, the Crown says, will testify to similar treatment from Gaum.

The trial is scheduled to begin on Oct. 21 in Halifax provincial courtand run for two weeks.

But Thursday morning, Judge Elizabeth Buckle allowed high-profile Halifax defence lawyer Stan MacDonald to withdraw as Gaum's counsel. Gaum is facing bankruptcy and has applied for legal aid to cover his costs.

The question discussed during Thursday's court appearance was whether legal aid approval would come in time for another lawyer to step in.

Another defence lawyer, Nicholas Fitch, told Buckle he was prepared to take over and would be ready in time for the trial.

Gaum is also facing a civil lawsuit from some former patients who also allege abuse.