Criminal Jury Charge Practice, 2nd Edition + E-Book

Towards the end of trials that are often lengthy and exhausting, defence counsel and Crown prosecutors are required to provide input to the trial judge on the content of the jury charge and typically have to do so within a short time frame.

Criminal Jury Charge Practice, 2nd Edition by The Honourable Justice Faisal Mirza of the Superior Court of Justice for Ontario, helps criminal law practitioners to conduct effective, efficient and accurate jury trials. It assists with effective jury trial preparation and advocacy, including making accurate submissions or objections to improve standard jury charge instructions. By supporting counsel and judges with the identification of essential issues for contemplation in the jury charge, this book will enhance the prospect of a fairer trial or stronger records for criminal appeals.

Each chapter of the book covers a different topic of law that frequently forms part of the jury charge, succinctly reviewing and breaking down advanced issues such as:

• Expert Evidence
• Credibility Cautions
• Propensity Reasoning and Bad Character
• Post Offence Conduct
• Party Liability
• Reasonable Doubt

In addition, every chapter of Criminal Jury Charge Practice, 2nd Edition includes easily accessible practical tips to assist counsel to formulate their position and request instructions to be included in the jury charge. The book also features sections on closing submissions and juror questions. The commentary and practical tips will improve counsel's advocacy while reducing the likelihood of errors or the failure to object under the pressure of a jury trial.

What’s New In This Edition

• Updated case law and commentary since the previous edition published more than 10 years ago

Who Should Read This Book
Because it features extensive expert commentary on specific jury charge issues, Criminal Jury Charge Practice, 2nd Edition is a useful reference for defence counsel, Crown prosecutors and judges alike. Guided by this book's content, they will be able to:

• Effectively and accurately produce focused jury charges in the brief window of time permitted
• Prepare motion records and oral submissions for trials and appeals
• Provide critical legal input to the trial judge in order to deliver to jurors superior tailored instructions
• Navigate important legal issues in challenging judge-alone trials