Criminal Law

Victims Information

Are you a victim of or witness to a crime in British Columbia? VictimsInfo.ca will give you the resources and information you need to deal with the consequences of crime. Topics include Services for Victims, Reporting a Crime, Criminal Charges, Going to Court and Sentencing.

Community Crime Prevention Guide

The Community Crime Prevention Guide provides information and tools for BC communities to develop action plans and tools that can be used to build safe, secure environments. Topics include Mobilizing Communities, Engaging Youth and Evaluation. The Guide is available online and can also be ordered for free.

Court Choices for Youth

When young people testify in court, they may feel like they don’t have many choices when, in reality, they do. CourtChoices.ca uses animated videos to teach youth about the choices they have when testifying as well as what happens before, during and after testifying.

Your Voice in Criminal Court

Your Voice in Criminal Court is designed for use by Victim Service Workers and other professionals to educate victims and witnesses about the criminal court process. The materials will help orient adult witnesses for Provincial Court. An informational booklet accompanies the DVD.

Courtwatcher's Manual

The Courtwatcher’s Manual is an all-in-one booklet for anyone wanting to watch and learn more about BC’s court system. Topics include The Operation and Structure of the Courts, the Roles and Responsibilities of Those Involved in a Trial as well as Civil and Criminal Trial Procedures.

Choices and Consequences

Choices and Consequences is an intensive program for youth aged 11-14 who are facing school suspension for making poor choices. This program is designed for students who are ready to take responsibility for their behaviour and to acquire important skills for making more pro-social choices.

Representing Yourself in Criminal Court

Representing Yourself in Criminal Court is a series of five resources that are designed for self-representing litigants. They are also helpful for people interested in learning more about the court process. Topics include How a Criminal Trial Works, How to Prepare Your Case and How to Act in Court.

Alternative Measures (Diversion)

This document contains information and the form required to apply for alternative measures, also known as “diversion.” By using alternative measures, if you admit that you committed a crime you may be able to deal with the charges without having to go to trial. The information is available in six languages.

Bail Orders: No Contact Orders

This document provides information about No Contact Orders – bail orders which determine what you may or may not do while charges are outstanding. The information is available in six languages.

How to Set a Trial Date in Vancouver Provincial Court (Arraignment Hearing)

This document explains how to set a trial date in Vancouver Provincial Court. If you want to plead not guilty, you will have to go to trial. This means you will need to fix a trial date at an arraignment hearing. Information is available in six languages.