Criminal Justice Systems and Summary Convictions week 1

Covers important info from week 1

Mens Rea

The mental state or intent necessary to be found guilty of a crime.

Actus Reus

The physical act or conduct that constitutes a criminal offense.

The Queen v. Toews

A Supreme Court of Canada case regarding impaired driving and the principles of mens rea and actus reus.

Not Criminally Responsible (NCR)

A legal designation indicating that a person cannot be held criminally responsible due to a mental disorder.

Section 16 of the Criminal Code

Outlines the provisions for determining criminal responsibility when mental illness is involved.

Criminal vs Civil Law

Criminal law focuses on public safety and punishment, while civil law concerns monetary compensation.

Summary Conviction

A simplified legal procedure for less serious offenses with specific penalties.

Indictable Offense

A more serious criminal offense that typically carries higher penalties.

Hybrid Offense

An offense that can be prosecuted either as a summary conviction or an indictable offense.

Provincial Offences Act

Legislation governing minor offenses at the provincial level in Canada.

Strict Liability Offense

A type of offense where the prosecution does not need to prove mens rea (guilty mind), only that the actus reus (guilty act) occurred.These offenses often involve regulatory matters where public safety is a concern.