Criminal Law definitions

Crime

An act or omission that is against the law and can be punished by the government

Actus Reus

Mens Rea

Intent

The mental state of desiring a specific outcome and can be described as a plan, design, or objective.

Recklessness

Acting without considering the risks and consequences often characterized by a deliberate disregard for danger.

Criminal Negligence

A reckless disregard for the safety of others that is so extreme it constitutes a crime, often resulting in bodily harm or death.

Summary Offence

A minor crime typically punishable by a fine or a short jail term, often handled without a jury trial. (example: Theft under 5000$ or Assault)

Indictable Offence

Heard in the superior court by a judge and jury (Example: Theft over 5000$ or Murder)

Hybrid Offence

Can be treated as summary offences or as indictable (Example: Abandoning a child)

Police officer

A law enforcement official responsible for maintaining public order and enforcing laws

Crown Attorney

A legal profesional representing the government in criminal prosecutions, presenting evidence to prove guilt.

Defense Lawyer

A legal professional who represents the accused in criminal proceedings, working to protect their rights and ensure a fair trial.

Judge

A public official appointed or elected to hear and decide cases in a court of law.

Jury

A group of people selected to listen to evidence in a court of law and make a decision about that case.

Self Defense

The use of force to protect oneself from an attempted injury by another. (example: Deadly force vs Deadly force, or fighting off unprovocked attacker)

Defence of property

A legal justification that allows a person to use reasonable and proportional amount of non-deadly force to protect ones belongings. (Examples: Tackling someone, or Shoving a trespasser)

Necessity

Something that you must have in order to complete a task (Examples: food, shelter or computer for work)

Duress

Actions brought to bear on someone to do something against their will or better judgement (Example: Threats, Violent, Constraints.)

Automatism

The performance of actions without conscious thought or intetion