Glossary
In Criminal Law
A charge is withdrawn when the Crown decides that the case either cannot be proven or there are some public interest reasons why the case should not proceed. Once a case is withdrawn, it is very hard to bring it back to court, though it can happen in exceptional cases.
If your charges are withdrawn:
- you will have no more court appearances for the charges
- you will not be found guilty of the charges
- you are free to go unconditionally
In Criminal Law
When the Crown decides to stop prosecuting a person, the charges against that person are either withdrawn or stayed.
If your charges are withdrawn:
- You will have no more court appearances for the charges.
- You will not be found guilty of the charges.
- You are free to go unconditionally.
In Family Law
A witness is someone who gives information in court to help a judge decide a case. For example, a witness might be a friend or family member who can tell the judge what they know about things like your relationship with your child.
A witness usually gives this information by testifying in court. All parties in a case get the chance to ask a witness questions through direct examination, cross-examination, and re-examination. The judge may also ask the witness questions.
In Refugee Law
A witness is a person who knows things that are important to your case and gives evidence about what they know. They can do this by testifying at your hearing. They can also give written letters or affidavits.In Wills and Powers of Attorney
When you make a formal will, you have to sign it in front of 2 people. These people are called witnesses. They also sign your will.
For your will to be valid, you cannot leave your witness and their married partner any property in your will.
Workers’ compensation benefits are payments for injuries or diseases that are related to the work you were doing. Workers’ compensation is paid by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).