The Law of Search and Seizure in Canada, 13th Edition

The Law of Search and Seizure in Canada, 13th Edition is the definitive text on all aspects of this intricate and rapidly evolving area of criminal law. Much cited by Canadian courts at all levels, this seminal volume clearly lays out the complex legal framework that governs the issuance, execution and review of search warrants, and the rules limiting warrantless activities by state agents. The book also analyzes the central role of the Charter of Rights in determining the legality of police action and the admissibility of evidence when constitutional protections are breached.

Long relied on by judges, the criminal bar, law enforcement officials and academics across Canada, The Law of Search and Seizure in Canada, 13th Edition provides a comprehensive resource for understanding the often blurred line between legal and illegal government action.

What’s New In This Edition
This edition incorporates the judicial and statutory developments that have affected the complex field of search and seizure since publication of the 12th Edition, including:

• A significant modification by the Supreme Court of Canada to the law governing searches of premises incident to arrest where the area searched is outside the arrestee’s physical control at the time of arrest (R. v. Stairs)
• Application by the Supreme Court of the “plain view” doctrine to the often vexing issue of searches of electronic devices (R. v. McGregor)
• An important ruling on whether and how police may make a “fresh start” for the purposes of Charter compliance after Charter breaches have taken place (R. v. Beaver)
• Delineation of the parameters of search of the person incident to arrest, and what will constitute a mistake of law (R. v. Tim)
• Clarification of the circumstances in which an investigative detention will be found to have taken place, particularly where race and age are relevant (R. v. Lafrance)
• A definitive answer as to whether the police are entitled, under provincial highway traffic legislation, to issue a roadside screening demand when the accused driver is on private property
• A clear answer from the Supreme Court of Canada on the meaning of “forthwith” or “immediately” in the context of roadside alcohol screenings, and on whether a police officer not in possession of an approved screening device can make a lawful demand for a roadside sample (R. v. Breault)
• Recent amendments to the telewarrant framework to facilitate and normalize the use of warrant applications by telecommunication

Who Should Read This Book

• Criminal Law Lawyers whose clients rely on their expertise in this crucial area
• Crown Counsel whose case often stands or falls upon the admissibility of seized evidence
• Judges who need an understanding of the most current law and cases in order to rule appropriately
• Law Enforcement Agents on the front lines who simply have to know the limits of the law
• Academics in the field of criminal or privacy law who need a comprehensive analytical treatise