Sexual history has always been capable of being relevant in a sexual offence trial as long as it’s not tendered for the purpose of promoting the twin myths that the complainant is more likely to have consented to the sexual activity or is less worthy of being believed.

“While evidence of a complainant’s prior sex work should not be adduced to show a propensity to engage in sex work or sexual activity generally, such evidence may be relevant for other legitimate inferential purposes, as in the instant case,” (Justice) Moreau said in the decision. Moreau said it’s the job of the courts to …

Do we need more police officers? According to City News, that’s what Torontonians want. What does that mean?

“Around three-quarters of Toronto and GTA residents say they want more officers on the streets while at the same time favouring to keep police budgets steady, a new poll finds. The Canada Pulse Insights poll conducted for CityNews found 73 per cent of Torontonians and 76 per cent of GTA residents surveyed agree there needs …

DO HARSH CONDITIONS OF CONFINEMENT INPROVE PUBLIC SAFETY?

Recent policy changes by Premier Doug Ford have removed minimum density requirements in Ontario correctional facilities, compounding existing cell overcrowding. Despite criticism from judges, does intensifying conditions of confinement actually contribute to public safety? “That observation goes to the heart of the criminal justice debate. Overcrowding does not occur in a vacuum. When you put …

Who do we turn to when the police are the corrupt criminals?

“The new details released Wednesday show that the alleged corruption within the city’s police force is even worse than what was described five months ago. It is not just a single rogue cop, but a coterie of allegedly corrupt officers who appeared to have little fear of being found out, given how openly they discussed …

Michael Spratt explains the purpose behind Doug Ford’s intrusion into federal law.

“Ford and Downey have passed a law they know will be struck down, so they can launch a performative attack when it is. And in doing so, they deliberately undermine confidence in courts, plow under the Charter and civil liberties, and use real human suffering to manufacture a political grievance. Ontario’s cash bail law will …

Canadian debt is shaping who can afford to defend the law

Public-interest law cannot thrive if graduates cannot afford to pursue it The road to the professions of law and medicine has always been long and expensive. They are not for everyone. The necessary standards are not easily achieved without long, hard work and sacrifice, but, if attained, they result in a certain level of privilege. …

UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES OF DOUG FORD’S FORAY INTO CRIMINAL LAW

Excerpts from The Star: Bail for a $1 coin? Inside the chaotic first week of Ontario’s controversial cash bail system In courtrooms across the Toronto area this week, the Star has watched as judges and justices of the peace have at times pushed back against the Ontario government’s new bail regime. In practice, the rules …

Beginning on Monday, if you’re arrested, you will only be granted bail if you pay cash to the Province of Ontario. That’s right – the poor, the homeless, the ill and the disadvantaged will be jailed because they don’t have money. This is Doug FORD’S Ontario, even though criminal law is federal jurisdiction, not provincial. This is unconstitutional, hateful and a step towards Trumpism. After all, FORD has to populate his new jails. Speak up about this tragedy. Let Doug FORD know!