Canadian Criminal Justice; A Prime (6th Edition)

Specifications

Book Description

**”Canadian Criminal Justice: A Primer” (April 10, 2018)** by Curt Griffiths is an accessible introduction to the Canadian criminal justice system. The book provides a comprehensive overview of key aspects of the system, including its structure, processes, and various components such as law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. It is written with a clear focus on helping students understand the legal framework and operational realities of criminal justice in Canada.

### **Key Features and Content Overview:**

#### **1. Overview of the Criminal Justice System**
– **Introduction to Canadian Law:** The book begins with an explanation of the Canadian legal system, covering the Constitution, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the different sources of law that guide the criminal justice process.
– **Key Players:** It introduces the main actors in the system, such as police officers, judges, lawyers, and correctional officers, providing insights into their roles and responsibilities.

#### **2. The Process of Criminal Justice**
– **From Crime to Courtroom:** Griffiths takes readers through the various stages of the criminal justice process, from crime detection, arrest, and investigation, to prosecution, trial, sentencing, and appeals.
– **Case Processing:** The book examines how cases move through the justice system, with attention to the discretionary decisions made by police, prosecutors, and judges at each stage.

#### **3. Law Enforcement in Canada**
– **Policing:** The role of police forces, both municipal and federal (including the RCMP), is thoroughly examined. Topics include community policing, investigative procedures, use of force, and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies.
– **Police Accountability:** There is a focus on the oversight and accountability mechanisms in place to monitor police conduct, including complaints processes and civilian oversight bodies.

#### **4. The Court System**
– **Court Structure and Function:** Griffiths provides an in-depth look at the structure of the Canadian court system, including the distinction between trial courts and appellate courts. It covers both provincial/territorial courts and the federal system.
– **The Role of Judges and Lawyers:** Readers learn about the responsibilities of judges, defense attorneys, and prosecutors, and how they contribute to the judicial process.

#### **5. Sentencing and Corrections**
– **Types of Sentences:** The book explores the different sentencing options available in Canadian law, such as imprisonment, probation, fines, and conditional sentences, with attention to the factors that influence sentencing decisions.
– **Corrections System:** Griffiths examines the correctional system, including incarceration, parole, and rehabilitation programs. It also covers issues such as overcrowding, mental health, and reintegration of offenders into society.

#### **6. Special Topics**
– **Youth Justice:** The book includes a section on youth crime and the Youth Criminal Justice Act, exploring how young offenders are treated differently in the justice system.
– **Indigenous Peoples and the Justice System:** A significant focus is placed on the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples within the criminal justice system, including overrepresentation and the impact of colonialism.

### **Conclusion**
**”Canadian Criminal Justice: A Primer” (2018)** is an essential text for students and professionals interested in understanding the Canadian criminal justice system. With its clear explanations, case studies, and attention to current issues, it provides readers with a foundational understanding of how justice is administered in Canada, while encouraging critical thinking about its effectiveness and fairness.