section 521(2)

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The prosecutor must give the accused at least two clear days notice in writing before their application can be heard by a judge under Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada.

SECTION WORDING

521(2) An application under this section shall not be heard by a judge unless the prosecutor has given to the accused at least two clear days notice in writing of the application.

EXPLANATION

Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada establishes a requirement for prosecutors to provide written notice to the accused of an application to have them detained before trial. This notice must be given at least two clear days prior to the hearing before a judge. This provision is part of the legal framework governing pretrial detention in Canada. Under the Criminal Code, a person accused of a criminal offense may be detained before trial if a judge finds that detention is necessary to ensure their attendance in court, protect the safety of the public, or maintain confidence in the administration of justice. An accused person who is detained before trial may apply for release from detention under Section 521 of the Criminal Code. In such cases, the accused must give notice to the prosecutor, who then has the obligation to provide written notice to the accused of any application for continued detention. The two-day notice requirement serves to ensure the accused has adequate time to prepare their response to the application and to ensure that the principles of natural justice are respected. If a prosecutor fails to provide the required notice, the hearing may be adjourned or the application may be dismissed, depending on the circumstances. Overall, Section 521(2) is an important safeguard in the pretrial detention process and helps ensure that accused persons are provided with fair and transparent proceedings in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice.

COMMENTARY

Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada is a critical provision that ensures an accused person receives fair notice before a hearing of an application for preventive detention. Under this section, an accused person is entitled to at least two clear days' notice in writing of a prosecutor's application to keep them in custody pending trial. This provision is meant to address the fundamental principle of natural justice, which requires the accused to be informed of the allegations against them and given the opportunity to respond. It prevents any unfairness or surprise in the proceedings and ensures that the accused can plan and prepare their defence accordingly. The two clear days' notice period is essential as it provides sufficient time for the accused to obtain legal counsel and prepare their case effectively. This period also recognizes that the accused may need to gather evidence or make arrangements before their detention hearing, such as arranging childcare, requesting time off work, or making arrangements related to their living situation. Therefore, this section guarantees that the accused is fully aware of the prosecutor's position before appearing in court and has the opportunity to advance a meaningful defence. Moreover, this provision also assures that the prosecutor's application is adequately reasoned, justified, and based on facts that could be presented in court. The notice requirement allows the accused to scrutinize the reasonableness of the prosecutor's application and how it relates to their circumstances. The accused may also seek to challenge any inaccuracies or errors in the prosecutor's application. In this manner, this section protects the integrity and reliability of the proceedings, which enhances public confidence in the justice system. Lastly, this section also incorporates safeguards against arbitrary or excessive detention. The provision stipulates that the prosecutor must make an application for preventive detention formally, which means they must demonstrate the necessity for continued detention and that no less restrictive measures could suffice. Therefore, the accused's liberty is only restricted where it is necessary and proportionate to do so, ensuring that any deprivation of liberty is subject to a rigorous justification and scrutinization. In conclusion, section 521(2) is a critical provision that serves as a safeguard against arbitrary or excessive detention of an accused person. It upholds the principle of natural justice and ensures that the accused is fully aware of the allegations against them and has adequate time to prepare their defence. It is a provision that safeguards the integrity of the criminal justice system and ensures that justice is served.

STRATEGY

Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada is a procedural mandate that outlines the notification requirements for an application made under this section. The section requires that the prosecutor give at least two clear days' notice in writing to the accused before the hearing of the application. This provides the accused with an opportunity to prepare their case and to respond to the application. These notices are essential for the conduct of fair criminal proceedings in Canada. Strategic Considerations: When dealing with Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada, there are several strategic considerations that should be taken into consideration. Some of these include: 1. Adherence to the requirements of the section - Adherence to the requirements of Section 521(2) is crucial as non-compliance with the provisions may result in the application being struck out. It is essential to ensure that all the notification requirements are met to avoid any procedural challenges to the application. 2. Timing of the application - The timing of an application under section 521 is an important strategic consideration. The prosecutor must give the accused two clear days' notice in writing before the application. In determining the timing of the application, prosecutors should consider the availability of the court and the likelihood of the accused being present. 3. Disclosure of evidence - The disclosure of evidence by the prosecutor is an essential consideration for an accused person in preparing a response to an application under Section 521. The prosecution is required to disclose all relevant information to the defence, including any evidence they intend to rely on in the application. 4. Preparation for the hearing - The accused person should be given adequate time to prepare their case before the hearing. This includes reviewing the evidence and liaising with witnesses, if necessary. A lack of preparation may lead to an adverse outcome for the accused. Strategies that could be employed: To effectively handle an application made under Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada, the following strategies could be employed: 1. Timely Notification - Prosecutors should ensure that they give the accused at least two clear days' notice in writing of the application. This notification should be sent via a reliable and verifiable means of communication, such as email or registered mail. 2. Early Disclosure - Prosecutors should also disclose all relevant evidence they intend to rely on in their application as early as possible. They should ensure that the disclosed evidence is exhaustive and comprehensive to avoid any later claims of non-disclosure. 3. Adequate Preparation - The accused person should be given sufficient time to prepare their case. They should be able to review all the evidence that has been disclosed by the prosecution in preparation for the hearing. 4. Strategic Timing - Prosecutors should consider the most appropriate timing for their application. The timing should be such that it provides the accused person with a reasonable opportunity to prepare and respond. Conclusion: In conclusion, Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada is a crucial procedural requirement that ensures fair criminal proceedings. It is essential to comply with the provisions of this section as non-compliance may result in the application being struck out. To effectively handle an application under this section, prosecutors should timely notify the accused persons, disclose all relevant evidence and give the accused person sufficient time to prepare their case. These are some of the strategic considerations and strategies that could be employed when dealing with Section 521(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada.