Criminal Procedures

This course examines the application and procedure of criminal law with particular emphasis on summary conviction matters. The course reviews the functions of the criminal court system and the role of participants in the criminal law process. Students acquire skills in interpreting provisions of the Criminal Code and other federal statutes and in identifying the substantive, procedural and penalty clauses of an offence. The course reviews the burden and standard of proof required in criminal procedure, the constitutional context of criminal law and the distinction between criminal and quasi-criminal offences. Procedural aspects of criminal law will be explored including compelling appearance, arrest, bail, pre-trial, trial, sentencing and appeal. Use of case studies reinforce student understanding of Charter application as it specifically relates to legal rights of accused persons. The course explores matters of evidence in criminal trials. Student understanding of criminal procedure is enhanced by a field trip to the Ontario Court of Justice Criminal Courts to observe proceedings.