MONTREAL - The federal government is proposing new rules aimed at simplifying complex, lengthy mega-trials involving multiple suspects that have become increasingly common in Canada.

The trials are long and deal with serious cases -- organized crime, violent crime and terrorism.

There are often multiple accused, many witnesses, complicated evidence and dozens of lawyers which cause the cases to take months or years to wind their way through the legal system.

There have been a number of huge cases in recent years -- such as the widespread crackdowns on the Hells Angels in Quebec.

They are expensive, too -- generally millions of dollars in legal costs and requiring an expanded courthouse venue.

"Unfortunately, it has become more difficult to meet one of the legitimate expectations we have of our justice system -- ensuring that trials take place and are completed within a reasonable period of time," Justice Minister Rob Nicholson said Tuesday.

"Mega-trials can take up a lot of court time and generate excessive delays -- increasing the risk of mistrial."

The changes include appointing a second judge who would be in charge of case management -- handling issues like pre-trial motions and imposing deadlines -- for large trials.

The second judge would also be able to deal with Charter arguments and disclosure motions.

"Establishing the ground rules and expectations early in the process helps improve efficiency," Nicholson said.

Ottawa is also proposing new rules designed to limit duplication so that prosecutors aren't making the same arguments over and over.

The changes would also allow the swearing-in of two extra jurors, increasing the likelihood that the minimum 10 would be available to render a verdict.

The government tabled the legislation in the House of Commons on Tuesday. The bill stemmed from a promise in the government's throne speech last March.

Nicholson said these measures -- called the Fair and Efficient Trials Act --should help cut down on delays -- and that cases would be completed in a more reasonable amount of time.

"Over the last decade, the time required to hear criminal trials has increased, especially in the case of mega-trials," Nicholson said.