Canadian Criminal Justice System

These flashcards cover key concepts in the Canadian criminal justice system, including types of discharges, sentencing options, victim rights, and offender classifications.

Absolute Discharge

A legal outcome where a person is found guilty but does not receive a criminal record or punishment.

Conditional Discharge

A legal outcome where a person is found guilty but does not have a criminal record if they follow certain conditions during a probation period.

Suspended Sentence

A conviction where the offender does not go to jail if they follow probation rules.

Probation

A sentence allowing offenders to live in the community under supervision while following specific conditions.

Fines

Monetary penalties imposed on offenders as a form of punishment.

Restitution

Payment made by the offender to the victim for loss or damage caused.

Community Service

Unpaid work performed by the offender for the benefit of the community.

Conditional Sentence

A sentence that allows an offender to serve jail time at home under strict conditions.

Imprisonment

A legal sentence that involves the offender being sent to jail for a specific period.

Intermittent Sentence

A prison sentence served during weekends or at specified times, often for shorter terms.

Dangerous Offender

A person who has committed serious crimes and cannot be trusted in society even after serving their sentence.

Victim Impact Statement

A statement that allows victims to explain how the crime affected their lives to the judge during sentencing.

Pre-Sentence Report

A document prepared by the court for adult offenders outlining the background and circumstances before sentencing.

Predisposition Report

A document prepared for youth offenders under 18 before sentencing, outlining their background and circumstances.

Open Custody

A less restrictive detention type allowing more freedom within a secure area, often for work or education.

Closed Custody

A more secure detention type with limited freedom, often involving confinement in cells.

Parole

The conditional release of an offender before the completion of their sentence, subject to adherence to specific conditions.

Mitigating Factors

Circumstances that may reduce the severity or culpability of a sentence.