Criminal Procedure

Now in its fifth edition, this foundational textbook provides an overview of the rules of criminal procedure, from the preliminary issue of its sources to the rules governing appeals.

Legal expert Steve Coughlan provides an in-depth discussion of police powers, with a major focus on the ever-expanding domain of search and seizure, as well as consideration of general warrants, powers of detention, arrest, and other methods of compelling appearance. The consideration of the pre-trial process looks at changes around preliminary inquiries, the most recent case law on issues of disclosure and production, and the state of flux the law continues to be in around jury selection. The chapter on the trial process includes discussion of the rules around information and indictments, pleas, and trial procedures such as addresses by counsel, publication bans, jury deliberations, and a trial judge’s case management power. Finally, the many issues arising on appeals are considered, including appeals by both the Crown and the accused, with discussion of the various grounds and the curative proviso.

Ensuring a complete understanding of all aspects of the Canadian criminal process, this book will be of great relevance for students, educators, practitioners, and judges alike.