When facing serious criminal charges such as assault or sexual assault in Canada, your right to a fair trial is fundamental. In many cases, this includes the right to a trial by jury. If you or a loved one has been charged and are preparing for a jury trial, understanding the jury selection process in Canadian criminal law is essential. As one of the best Vancouver criminal defence lawyers, our goal at Vayeghan Litigation is to ensure our clients are informed, empowered, and vigorously defended every step of the way.
What Is Jury Selection?
Jury selection is the process of choosing impartial members of the public to decide the outcome of a criminal trial. In Canada, serious indictable offences—such as aggravated assault or sexual assault—may be tried before a judge and jury. A properly selected jury plays a critical role in safeguarding the accused’s right to a fair trial.
Who Can Be a Juror in Canada?
Jurors must be Canadian citizens, 18 years or older, and free from any legal disqualifications. Jurors are selected from the community at random through a jury roll compiled by provincial authorities. Individuals with certain criminal convictions, mental health issues, or connections to the case may be disqualified from serving.
The Jury Selection Process in B.C.
In British Columbia criminal trials, jury selection typically occurs at the start of the trial. Prospective jurors are brought into court and vetted by both Crown and defence counsel. Each side may challenge potential jurors for cause (e.g., bias or conflict of interest) or use a limited number of peremptory challenges (although these have now been abolished in many contexts under Bill C-75, 2019).
At Vayeghan Litigation, our team—including seasoned sexual assault lawyers and assault defence lawyers—scrutinizes the composition of the jury panel and vigorously advocates for a fair, unbiased jury. Selecting the right jury can be one of the most important strategic steps in preparing your defence.
What Are Jurors Told?
Once selected, jurors are instructed by the judge to be impartial and to decide the case solely based on the evidence presented in court. They are prohibited from conducting outside research or discussing the case with anyone else. This ensures that the accused—whether they are facing a charge of assault or sexual assault—receives a trial based solely on facts and legal principles.
Why Jury Selection Matters
An improperly selected jury can lead to a miscarriage of justice. Our firm is dedicated to ensuring the selection process is fair and transparent. If you’re searching for the best criminal defence lawyer in Vancouver, it’s critical to work with a firm that understands how to protect your rights from the very beginning—including during jury selection.
Facing Charges? Contact Us
If you are charged with a serious offence and require a Vancouver assault lawyer or sexual assault lawyer, our team at Vayeghan Litigation is here to help. We have extensive experience defending jury trials and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with one of the best Vancouver criminal defence lawyers.
Contact Vayeghan Litigation today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
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Call us at 778-653-3995 or email law@mvlitigation.com now to discuss your case.
