section 161(1.1)

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Section 161(1.1) lists all the offenses that are taken into consideration regarding the testimony of sexual assault complainants.

SECTION WORDING

161(1.1) The offences for the purpose of subsection (1) are (a) an offence under section 151, 152, 155 or 159, subsection 160(2) or (3), section 163.1, 170, 171, 171.1, 172.1 or 172.2, subsection 173(2) or 212(1), (2), (2.1) or (4) or section 271, 272, 273, 280 or 281; (b) an offence under section 144 (rape), 145 (attempt to commit rape), 149 (indecent assault on female), 156 (indecent assault on male) or 245 (common assault) or subsection 246(1) (assault with intent) of the Criminal Code, chapter C-34 of the Revised Statutes of Canada, 1970, as it read immediately before January 4, 1983; or (c) an offence under subsection 146(1) (sexual intercourse with a female under 14) or section 153 (sexual intercourse with step-daughter), 155 (buggery or bestiality), 157 (gross indecency), 166 (parent or guardian procuring defilement) or 167 (householder permitting defilement) of the Criminal Code, chapter C-34 of the Revised Statutes of Canada, 1970, as it read immediately before January 1, 1988.

EXPLANATION

Section 161(1.1) of the Criminal Code of Canada lists the specific offences that are considered to be "sexual offences" for the purpose of subsection (1). This is important because it enables courts and legal professionals to apply this section accurately and consistently. The offences listed in subsection (a) include sexual offences against children, such as sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching, and luring a child. It also includes sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and various forms of sexual misconduct and trafficking. These offences are considered particularly egregious and are dealt with severely under the Criminal Code. Subsection (b) includes offences related to sexual assault and other sexual offences that were repealed and replaced in 1983. These offences generally involved non-consensual sexual activity or indecent acts, and were considered serious at the time they were created. Subsection (c) includes older sexual offences that were repealed and replaced in 1988. These offences generally involved sexual activity with minors or other vulnerable individuals, and were considered particularly harmful and exploitative. Overall, this section reflects the Canadian legal system's strong commitment to protecting individuals from sexual harm and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. By clearly defining what constitutes a sexual offence, this section helps ensure that perpetrators are appropriately punished and that victims receive the justice they deserve.

COMMENTARY

Section 161(1.1) of the Criminal Code of Canada lists a broad range of offences that are labeled as offences of a sexual nature" for the purposes of the Code. This section is significant because it is used in various contexts such as in relation to bail hearings, sentencing, and determining whether a conviction can be relied upon as evidence of bad character in subsequent trials. The offenses listed under subsection (1.1) are in addition to the offenses of a sexual nature listed under subsection (1), which includes offenses such as sexual assault, sexual interference, and sexual exploitation. The range of offenses listed under subsection (1.1) highlights the fact that sexual violence and abuse come in many forms and are not limited to physical assault. It is important to note that the offenses listed under subsection (1.1) are not limited to acts perpetrated against women and children. Although the majority of victims of sexual violence and abuse are women and children, men and members of the LGBTQ+ community also experience sexual violence and abuse. The list of offenses in subsection (1.1) reflects this reality by including offenses such as indecent assault on a male, buggery, and gross indecency. The fact that section 161(1.1) exists also highlights the extent to which sexual violence and abuse are prevalent in society. The inclusion of a broad range of offenses of a sexual nature in the Criminal Code of Canada reflects the recognition by lawmakers that there are many forms of sexual violence and abuse, and that each form of sexual violence and abuse is equally harmful and deserving of punishment. In addition to the criminalization of these offenses, it is also important that there be adequate support and resources available to victims of sexual violence and abuse. This support can include access to counseling, legal aid, and medical care. The government has implemented various initiatives to address sexual violence and abuse, including a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, as well as funding for organizations that provide support and services to survivors of sexual violence and abuse. In conclusion, section 161(1.1) of the Criminal Code of Canada is an important section of the Code that lists a broad range of offenses of a sexual nature. The section reflects the reality that sexual violence and abuse are prevalent in society and should be dealt with harshly under the law. It is important that there be support and resources available to victims of sexual violence and abuse, as well as initiatives to prevent sexual violence and abuse from occurring.

STRATEGY

Dealing with Section 161(1.1) of the Criminal Code of Canada requires a strategic approach to ensure that the situation is handled effectively and efficiently. Some strategic considerations include understanding the nature of the offence, the possible consequences of the case, and the potential legal defenses that could be employed. One of the critical strategic considerations when dealing with this section of the Criminal Code is understanding the nature of the offence. The offences listed in this section are related to sexual assault and other forms of sexual misconduct. A thorough understanding of each of these offences can help one to build a strong defense or prosecution case. It is also crucial to understand the specific circumstances surrounding the alleged offence since this can affect the outcome of the case. Another strategic consideration is the possible consequences of the case. Offences listed in this section carry severe penalties, including significant fines and long jail sentences. An individual charged with one of these offences may face social and professional stigmatization that could negatively impact their life. It is, therefore, essential to have a clear and informed understanding of the possible consequences of the case before proceeding with any legal action. When dealing with Section 161(1.1) of the Criminal Code, employing effective strategies can be crucial to achieving a favorable outcome. Some strategies that can be employed include gathering all relevant evidence, identifying potential witnesses, and crafting a persuasive defense or prosecution argument. It is also essential to work with an experienced legal team that can guide one through the process. Another strategy is to understand the potential legal defenses that one can use. For example, an individual could claim that the alleged offence was consensual or that they were falsely accused. It may also be possible to argue that the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to support the charges. An experienced defence lawyer can help to identify the best possible legal defense strategy to use in a given case. In conclusion, dealing with Section 161(1.1) of the Criminal Code of Canada requires a strategic approach. It is crucial to understand the nature of the offence, the potential consequences of the case, and the possible legal defenses that could be employed. Employing effective strategies, such as gathering relevant evidence and crafting persuasive arguments, can be crucial to achieving a favorable outcome. It is essential to work with an experienced legal team to navigate the complexities of these cases successfully.