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.
Most of those dying in jails are awaiting criminal defense
Wait times are a serious issue in Canadian jails. While Ontario says it is reviewing its policies to allow for quicker trials and sentencing, statistics show that current wait times can be fatal. Of the nearly 270 people who have died in Canadian provincial jails in the past five years, two thirds were awaiting trial. Legally innocent people dying in prisons is a major issue in Canada, where the criminal defense system and tough bail practices have led to overcrowding in jails.
Criminal defense: Woman charged with careless driving
A woman police believe to be responsible for a serious car accident has been charged, according to local sources. The accident took place in Gananoque, Ontario back in February and involved two vehicles. The woman stands charged with careless driving and was expected to appear in court on June 27, likely alongside criminal defense counsel.
Suspect in vehicle theft case may seek strong criminal defence
Ontario police arrested two men on a recent Friday on charges related to vehicle theft. According to authorities, a pickup truck was stolen and driven a short distance away. Law enforcement officers who were nearby because of unrelated matters watched the two men leave the stolen vehicle then arrested them. Now, each man is likely in need of a solid criminal defence strategy.
Criminal defence: Alleged forgery of kosher certification
Canadian residents of certain religions eat only food that has passed a particular certification process to declare it suitable for consumption by those following a kosher diet. A food manufacturer in Ontario may be exploring his criminal defence options after five charges were laid against it, alleging the forgery. This followed the discovery that the company supplied non-kosher cheese that had falsified labels showing it to be certified as kosher.
Criminal defense: The rights of a person under arrest
Ontario residents who are arrested or charged by police may be unsure of their legal rights. However, upon request, any person must be allowed to make a phone call to obtain the services of a criminal defense lawyer. The circumstances that give law enforcement the right to stop a person include officers suspecting the person of committing a crime or witnessing him or her committing a crime. They may also stop any person who is driving, and refusal to cooperate with officers could result in an arrest.
Men in Highway 401 incident may require skilled criminal defense
According to the Ontario Provincial Police, they arrested two men -- ages 22 and 17 years -- on a recent Thursday following a police chase that spanned several jurisdictions. The men face serious charges, and they will likely be exploring their criminal defense options. Reportedly, a concerned citizen called OPP to make a traffic complaint involving a vehicle on Highway 401 not far from Brockville.
Criminal defense: Ontario man charged with leaving the scene
Being accused of a crime is a significant event in any person's life. In most cases, an arrested person is unfamiliar with the criminal proceedings, and he or she may be anxious about not knowing what to expect. To avoid making mistakes that can jeopardise the case, it makes good sense to retain a professional to handle the criminal defense.
Criminal defense: Early morning traffic stop leads to charges
When Ontario drivers are arrested on charges of impaired driving or drug possession, it does not mean they are criminals. In many cases involving such accusations, the criminal defense can show that the people involved are just average citizens who overindulged. A night of seemingly innocent fun can lead to life-changing penalties if the court convicts the driver on these serious charges. However, this can only occur when -- and if -- the Crown attorneys can prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Criminal defense: Ontario driver charged after fatal crash
Any Ontario resident who is facing a criminal charge may experience anxiety -- regardless of whether this is a first or subsequent charge. However, having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on the side of the accused person can relieve the stress. A lawyer can explain the procedures that will follow and protect the rights of the individual.
