Test 1 Flashcards
(55 cards)
What is the definition of substantive and procedural criminal law?
- SUB: A body of law that prohibits certain kinds of conduct and imposes sanctions for unlawful behaviour
- PROS: Elements of the criminal law that include how the criminal justice system enforces and adjudicates crime
It involves the nature of offence, requisites, burden, and penalty.
What authority does only the Parliament of Canada have concerning criminal law?
Authority and jurisdiction to enact/create criminal laws
This is established under the Constitution Act of 1867, 91 (27).
What are the three necessary elements for legislation in criminal law?
- State the prohibition
- Include the penalty
- Identify how it is public evil
What is the primary distinction between true crime and regulatory offences?
True crime is conduct that is abhorrent to societal values and ought to be completely prohibited, while regulatory offences are prohibited but not wholly wrongful
Examples include murder for true crime and polluting lakes for regulatory offences.
What does judicial discretion allow judges to do?
Make legal decisions based on their judgement and the circumstances of each case
This allows judges to deviate from precedent.
What is the fundamental premise of criminal law?
It functions as a means by which society reaffirms its values and denounces violators.
True or False: Criminal law applies to all individuals equally.
True
This principle is enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
What is the purpose of deterrence theory in criminal law?
To control groups via fear, sending a message to society against undesirable actions.
What is the meaning of ‘stare decisis’?
A legal principle that requires lower courts to follow decisions made by higher courts.
What is the role of the Constitution in criminal law?
It enshrines principles that guide the creation and application of laws, ensuring they do not infringe upon rights or freedoms.
Fill in the blank: A civil action is a ______ brought to court by one person against another.
private legal proceeding
What are the general categories of criminal offences?
- Offences against public order
- Offences against the good of the state
What does the presumption of innocence entail?
Every individual is considered innocent until proven guilty.
True or False: The criminal law is exclusively the jurisdiction of the Federal Parliament.
True
What is the significance of the Supreme Court in the context of judicial review?
It can hear appeals and make decisions that become law, ensuring the rule of law and constitution are upheld.
What is the consequence if a federal court rules a law unconstitutional?
The law may be rendered ineffective, but only Parliament can remove a law.
What are the two standards of review in administrative law?
- Reasonableness
- Correctness
What is the main difference between true crime and regulatory offences regarding moral culpability?
True crime involves a higher degree of moral culpability compared to regulatory offences.
What does the term ‘legal moralism’ refer to in criminal law?
The establishment of criminal code offenses to protect public values and morality.
Fill in the blank: The burden of proof in criminal law lies with the ______.
prosecution
What case illustrates the principle of due process in criminal law?
Singh v Minister of Employment and Immigration (1985)
No oral hearing, refugee claim denied – violation by not allowing heari
What is an example of a true crime?
Murder
What is the main purpose of regulatory offences?
Prevention of future harm via enforcement of minimum standards of care.
True or False: A corporation is considered a person under civil law.
True