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Summary Conviction Offences

Offences with a penalty of up to $2000 and/or six months in jail, heard in lower courts, and have a six-month limitation period.

Indictable Offences

Serious offences with harsher penalties, heard in higher courts, and have no limitation period.

Hybrid Offences

Offences that can be prosecuted as either summary conviction or indictable offences, depending on the circumstances (indictable until decided by the crown). 2-10 years imprisonment and a twelve-month limitation if summary conviction.

Elements of a Crime

Include Mens Rea (mental intent) and Actus Reus (physical act) necessary to constitute a crime.

Aiding/Abetting

Assisting or encouraging someone to commit a crime.

Conspiracy

Planning with others to commit a crime.

Willful Blindness

Purposely ignoring facts that would lead to knowledge of criminal activity.

Attempt (at a crime)

Trying to commit a crime but failing to complete it.

Organized Crime/Criminal Organization Crime Punishment

Severe penalties due to the organized and systematic nature of the criminal activities.

Criminal Negligence

Acting recklessly or without regard for the safety of others, leading to criminal consequences.

Accessory After the Fact

Assisting someone who has committed a crime to evade arrest, trial, or punishment.

Canadian Court System

Provincial Court handles minor civil and criminal cases, Provincial Superior Court deals with more serious cases, Provincial Court of Appeal reviews decisions, Federal Court deals with federal matters, and the Supreme Court of Canada is the highest court in the country.