CRI210H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 5: General Jurisdiction, Summary Offence, Peremptory Challenge
4 Aug 2022
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Document Summary
Introduction to the criminal court system and the pre trial decision making. 13 provincial/territorial courts and 1 federal court. Permanent courts (and court buildings) exist in large urban areas. Circuit courts exist in small, rural communities. At the provincial level there is a major difference btw courts of limited jurisdiction and courts of general jurisdiction. Deal w/ most minor criminal matters summary offences. Conduct bail hearings show cause hearings. Prosecution have to show cause as to why accused should be detained. Single magistrate (judges, justice of the peace, etc) makes all the decisions. These magistrates provide law enforcement agents w/ search warrants, subpoenas, Hold great deal of power summonses and remand warrants. Deal w/ the most serious criminal offences. Trial by judge (sitting alone) or by judge and jury. Specialized courts have also appeared w/in courts of general jurisdiction including special drug courts or courts dealing w/ family violence. Appear at both the provincial & federal level.
