The COVID-19 pandemic has
had a significant impact on every aspect of life in Canada, and the criminal
justice system is no exception. The pandemic has forced the legal system to
adapt to new challenges, resulting in changes to court procedures and the way
cases are handled. In this blog post, we’ll explore the impact of COVID-19 on
criminal law in Canada.
One of the most significant
changes to the criminal justice system has been the increased use of virtual
hearings. In-person court proceedings were put on hold in many parts of the
country due to the pandemic, and virtual hearings have become the norm. This
has enabled cases to continue to be heard despite the pandemic, but it has also
raised concerns about defendants’ rights, as virtual hearings can limit their
ability to communicate with their lawyers and participate fully in their trial.
Another impact of COVID-19
on criminal law in Canada has been delays in court proceedings. The pandemic
has caused significant backlogs in the courts, as trials have been postponed or
delayed due to public health concerns. This has resulted in longer wait times
for defendants, who may have to spend more time in custody before their trial.
It has also created a backlog of cases that will need to be heard once the
pandemic subsides, which could further strain an already overburdened system.
The pandemic has also
affected policing in Canada. Police officers have had to adjust to new
protocols to protect themselves and the public from the virus, such as wearing
masks and social distancing. This has made it more difficult for officers to do
their jobs, particularly in situations where physical contact is necessary,
such as during arrests. The pandemic has also affected crime rates in Canada,
with some types of crime increasing due to the economic and social disruptions
caused by the virus.
In conclusion, the COVID-19
pandemic has had a significant impact on criminal law in Canada. While virtual
hearings have enabled cases to continue despite the pandemic, delays in court
proceedings and strains on the system have created new challenges. As the
pandemic continues, it remains to be seen what the long-term effects will be on
the Canadian criminal justice system.
For further
information contact our expert Brampton lawyer Mr. Tahir Majeed. Visit our
website by clicking HERE