Navigating The Criminal Justice System in Canada

An indispensable guide for the self-represented accused, victim or witness. Understanding Canada's criminal justice system can be difficult. Criminal charges often involve life-changing events, and the justice system can be intimidating and confusing. Many people struggle to understand what is happening, and don't know which of the many justice officials in the system can make decisions about their case. When can a trial be set? Who can change conditions of bail? Who can terminate a charge before trial? Who can a victim or witness contact for help preparing for trial? When a person goes to court it seems as if everyone has hired a lawyer, but the reality is many people appear before court, representing themselves. This book is a comprehensive guide to the justice system, written in simple, clear language. The book doesn't provide legal advice, but does explain how Canada's criminal justice system works, what justice officials do, and who has the power to make decisions at different stages of a criminal case. An indispensable guide for the self-represented victim, witness or accused.