The Participants

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt Crown must prove case beyond a reasonable doubt: a reasonable person would have no choice but to conclude that the defendant committed the offence.

The Judge: Decisions on admissibility of evidence Controls events in courtroom Interprets law pertaining to the case Decides guilt or innocence if no jury Decides sentence

Justice of the Peace: Less authority than a judge Issue arrest or search warrants Hear bail applications

The Defence: Represents interests of the accused If accused pleads not guilty – try to show there is reasonable doubt If accused pleads guilty will recommend an appropriate sentence Accused does not have to take stand

The Prosecution Crown represents gov’t/society’s interests Role is not to obtain conviction but to present credible evidence of a crime Important witnesses are police officers

Witnesses: Give evidence under oath, concerning knowledge of a crime May be forced to testify by a subpoena Commit perjury if they knowingly make false statements on the stand

The Jury Group of 12 Pool of ordinary citizens Listen to evidence and follow judge’s instructions on law Decide on guilt or innocence Decision must be unanimous