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Criminal Law

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Photo by Roman Kraft on Unsplash
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Related Guides

Use the resources below to find reputable information on criminal law, the branch of federal law that defines what constitutes a criminal act in Canada and suggests appropriate penalties for various offences.

For legal information and services available to people who have been the victims of a crime, please see our page on Victim Services.

Criminal Law Primers

Wikibook chapter on criminal law with common questions and quick answers.

Information on crime, resolving disputes, and legal help & lawyers. Audio versions also available.

Help guide covering the basics of our criminal justice system, the court process, legal defense, sentencing, and more.

A compilation of reputable online resources relating to crimes and offences. Can be subdivided by specific topic: charged with a crime, criminal records & pardons, defending yourself in criminal court, sentencing & parole, tickets & bylaw offences, etc.

Rights of the Accused

A handbook that explains in plain language the range of conduct citizens can expect from police in the lawful exercise of their duties. 

Outlines what happens when someone is charged with a criminal offence, the court process in BC and different options that might be available, the rights of the accused, and how to get legal help.

Information about the additional rights that apply to Indigenous people in Canada. 

Self-Representation

Numerous links to publications and websites for those charged with a criminal offence.

Appealing a Decision

A step-by-step guide on how to appeal a criminal conviction in BC.

A step-by-step guide on how to appeal a criminal sentence in BC.

Advocacy Organizations

Promotes, defends, sustains, and extends civil liberties and human rights in Canada through advocacy, public policy, community education, and justice programs.

Works to make sure people in federal and provincial prisons across British Columbia are treated with dignity and that their rights are respected.

Relevant Legislation and Forms

Canada (federal law).

Links to BC criminal court forms.

Martin's Annual Criminal Code

343.0971 C21cm

A legal resource for legal professionals that contains the complete Criminal Code of Canada with annotations by criminal law experts. Updated annually.

Useful Websites

Listing of people and organizations that offer help with matters of criminal law.

Online manual updated annually to reflect new changes to federal and provincial law. See Chapter 1 for Criminal Law, Chapter 2 for Youth Justice, and Chapter 4 for Victims.

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