Many people are surprised to learn that shouting, swearing, singing, or using offensive language is not automatically a criminal offence in Canada.

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.

The criminal justice system requires the Crown to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. One way a defence may raise doubt is by introducing evidence that another person committed the offence.