Animal abuse allegations can result in serious criminal consequences. In Ontario, both the Criminal Code and provincial animal welfare legislation may apply depending on the circumstances.

In some criminal cases, a self-represented accused person may not be permitted to personally cross-examine a witness. Instead, the court may appoint counsel for that limited purpose.

When police obtain a search warrant, they must justify the search before it takes place. Courts generally do not allow investigators to repair major defects in a warrant application after the fact.