This page directs you to helpful info on the Criminal Court process in Provincial Court.

Note: Over 95% of all criminal cases in BC are heard in Provincial Court. If the offence is a serious or "indictable" offence, you may have a choice to hold your trial in Provincial or Supreme Court.

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An Overview

BC's Criminal Justice System | general info for everyone

From Ministry of Justice BC: Information and services for victims of crime, witnesses and the public. Explains the criminal justice system, BC Corrections, bail, parole, record suspension, etc.

Criminal Cases | hear from the Provincial Court

From the Provincial Court: What criminal matters do Provincial Court Judges deal with? Factsheets on: Basic Criminal Procedure, Sentencing, and a Frequently Asked Questions section on Criminal Law Matters.

Criminal Court Trial

Representing Yourself in a Criminal Trial | basic criminal court process steps

From Legal Services Society (LSS): For the accused person who wants to plead not guilty for a summary offence. Includes a sample letter to get a copy of the Information (document listing your offence) from Crown Counsel (prosecutor) and a basic glossary of terms.

• More Criminal Law Resources from LSS (Aboriginal Rights, How to Appeal, No Contact Orders, End Abuse, Speaking to the Judge before Sentencing, Drinking and Driving, etc.)

How a Criminal Trial Works | goes a little further than first steps

From Justice Education Society (JES): What Crown Counsel (prosecutor) has to do in a trial, how you can defend yourself, cross-examining witnesses, evidence you can use, final arguments, and the verdict.

• More Criminal Law Resources from JES (Peace bonds, Alternative Measures, how to set a trial date, etc.)

More Information

Defending Yourself Against a Criminal Charge | more on the trial process

From the Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch: More information on the criminal trial process in Provincial Court. Links to other criminal law-related fact sheets or “scripts”.

LSLAP Manual: Criminal Law | advanced reading

From Law Students' Legal Advice Program: This chapter on criminal law focuses on criminal procedure and how to manage cases. It covers Charter rights in the criminal context, sentencing, and criminal records.

Need extra help after reviewing these resources?

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