A criminal trial is where the Crown must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This guide outlines the process at a high level for Ontario matters.
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Outcomes depend on the facts of each case.
In an Ontario criminal trial, the Crown presents evidence and must prove the offence beyond a reasonable doubt. Defence may challenge evidence, call evidence, or argue that the Crown has not met its burden. A judge (or, in some cases, a jury) decides the verdict. This page is general information, not a prediction of any trial result.
Disclosure, Crown pre-trials, and judicial pre-trials usually precede trial dates. Charter applications and other motions may be scheduled separately.
Trials turn on admissible evidence, not online narratives. Video, civilian witnesses, and officer testimony are tested through examination. Do not contact Crown witnesses on your own.
A finding of not guilty ends the criminal allegation on that count. A finding of guilt leads to sentencing. Some matters resolve without trial — see resolutions and withdrawals.
Defence counsel prepares witnesses where appropriate, challenges the Crown’s case, and advises on testifying. Vosooghi Law conducts trial preparation for clients served from Richmond Hill. Call (416) 998 8900.
The Crown must prove each essential element beyond a reasonable doubt. The accused is not required to prove innocence.
Not necessarily. Whether an accused testifies is a strategic decision made with counsel. There is no single correct answer for every case.
The matter proceeds to sentencing, sometimes on a later date. See our sentencing resource. Finding of guilt is not the same as sentence.
Occasionally positions change during trial. Any resolution must still follow proper court process. Ask counsel in the moment — do not negotiate privately with complainants.
Some finish in a day; others need multiple days or weeks. Estimates are often set at judicial pre-trial.
