Trial

After the pretrial formalities are addressed, the trial begins. How long it lasts depends on the complexity and type of offence, whether the case is being heard before a jury or judge, and the number of witnesses. So, it can take anywhere from a couple of days to weeks or even months.

The Crown Prosecutor summons their witness first and the defence lawyer can cross-examine them.

As the prosecution is the first to begin, the Crown Counsel needs to prove to the jury or judge how the charges against you are true. Canadian court trials are open to the public and transcripts are generated which become part of the public record.