Glossary
In Criminal Law
When you testify, you give evidence as a witness in a court of law. You answer questions asked by the lawyers and the judge. You do this under oath or after you have given an affirmation. With an oath or an affirmation, you promise to tell the truth in court.
In Criminal Law
Testifying is a way of presenting evidence to the court using a witness. A witness testifies by answering questions asked by the lawyers and the judge. The answers the witness gives are called their testimony. The witness answers questions under oath or after giving an affirmation. With an oath or an affirmation, the witness promises to tell the truth in court.
In Criminal Law
A tort is a civil wrong that causes harm to a person or property. This is different from a “criminal wrong”. If you have been affected by a civil wrong, you can take action in court to claim compensation. Torts include:
- wrongful arrest and detention
- unlawful seizure of property
- unlawful searches
- assault and battery
- negligent use of force
In Criminal Law
There are specific legal rules for how you must transport alcohol:
- The alcohol must be in a sealed bottle or closed can, or
- The alcohol must be in a closed compartment of the vehicle, such as a trunk, out of reach of the driver
A trial is a court hearing to determine whether the crown has proven guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Trials result in findings of guilt or acquittals. If found guilty, the accused is sentenced. If they are acquitted, they are considered innocent of the offence and the case is over.