The Canadian justice system affects all citizens. This is the reason for large-scale government consultations in the wake of proposed sentencing reforms by the federal government. The online survey asks people in Ontario and across Canada their views on a variety of criminal defense and justice-related issues, including mandatory minimums and mitigating circumstances.
Rather than directly asking Canadians their views on certain issues, the survey presents a series of scenarios and asks respondents what the most just decision would be. Scenarios include how a brain-damaged offender or an apologetic offender with little possibility of re-offending should be considered in a court of law. The survey will be followed up in the coming months with consultations on issues such as sexual assault, mental health, court delays and indigenous issues.
The changes resulting from this survey and subsequent discussions may have a major influence on the future of criminal defense in Ontario and the rest of Canada. The government has promised certain reforms, and the survey is part of this process. While some people support the effort, others have voiced concern that public opinion may dictate decisions rather than evidence and careful study.
There are many controversies regarding the criminal justice system in Ontario and throughout Canada. Criminal defense lawyers spend their careers trying to understand the details of the laws and studying any changes that come along that may influence their clients' sentences. Anyone facing charges now or in the future can consult a lawyer to understand their possible defenses and legal complexities in their case.
Source: National Post, "Justice officials testing waters for sentencing reform promised by Liberals", Aug 17, 2017
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