Criminal court process

01

INITIAL STEP

After an arrest

After an arrest, it is essential to understand your rights, possible release conditions and the next steps in the process.

Early decisions can influence how the proceedings unfold.

02

Beginning of court proceedings

Court appearance

The first court appearance is often the first formal step before the court.

It allows the accused to learn about the charges, the evidence and the release conditions.

03

EVIDENCE REVIEW

Disclosure of evidence

Disclosure of evidence allows the defence to review the evidence the Crown intends to use.

This stage is essential to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case, identify possible challenges and prepare for the next steps.

04

RESOLUTION OF THE CASE

Discussions and negotiations

Depending on the case, discussions may take place with the Crown to assess available resolutions.

These discussions may cover the charges, release conditions, evidence, possible outcomes or next steps in the proceedings.

05

PRE-TRIAL ASSESSMENT

Preliminary hearing

In some cases, a preliminary inquiry may allow the Crown’s evidence to be assessed before trial.

When available, this step can help guide the strategy by providing a better understanding of the case, the witnesses and the issues involved in the matter.allow for better guidance of the strategy in the case, the witnesses and the issues involved in the matter.

06

Arguing innocence

Trial

At trial, the court hears the evidence, witnesses and arguments from both sides.

Trial preparation involves a careful analysis of the evidence, applicable rights and defence strategy.

07

VERDICT AND SENTENCING

Conviction

When a person is found guilty or pleads guilty, sentencing determines the applicable consequences.

This stage must take several factors into account, including the circumstances of the case, the accused’s profile and the objectives set out by law.