Courts & police

Understand what's involved in charging someone, being a witness, complaining about police, and related criminal justice topics.

Mother and daughter looking at computer screen with worried faces
Charging someone with a criminal offence

Charging someone with a criminal offence

Typically, for someone to be charged with a crime, the police must recommend charges and a prosecutor (called Crown counsel) must approve the charge. Learn what’s involved in the process.

Read more
Woman shocked at what she reads on her phone
Peace bonds and assault charges

Peace bonds and assault charges

If someone threatens to hurt you or damage your property, a peace bond can offer protection. Learn how they work, and the steps involved in applying for a peace bond.

Read more
Man in shirt and tie testifying in courtroom
Being a witness

Being a witness

If you see someone commit a crime or you have information relevant for a court case, you may be called as a witness. Learn your rights and what to expect.

Read more
Empty RCMP vehicle parked on side of road
Complaints against the RCMP

Complaints against the RCMP

If you have concerns about the on-duty conduct of an RCMP officer, you have options, which can include filing a complaint and suing. The options vary depending on the situation.

Read more
Policeman beside pulled over car radioing in
Complaints against the municipal police

Complaints against the municipal police

If you are concerned about a police officer’s conduct, you have options, from filing a complaint to suing. Learn how the options differ, and the steps in filing a complaint.

Read more
Person holding a firearm taking aim
Firearms and the Firearms Act

Firearms and the Firearms Act

Canada’s gun laws require gun owners to be licensed and certain guns to be registered. Learn how these laws work, and how to get a licence or register a firearm.

Read more
Youth wearing hoodie looking away into distance
Youth justice court trials

Youth justice court trials

If you are a young person facing a criminal trial, learn your rights and what to expect, from alternatives to trial to possible sentences if a judge finds you guilty.

Read more

We are grateful to work on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, whose Peoples continue to live on and care for these lands.