Criminal Charge Progression

By Ryan Conway, Summer Student

Below is a chart showing the general progression of a criminal charge and what update might be expected at each appearance type.

To progress through these appearances, it may take you or your counsel several appearances over many months. It is important to remain patient and communicate with your counsel regularly regarding your matter.

The Crown may withdraw a charge at any time because it does not believe that there is a reasonable prospect of conviction or because continuing the prosecution would not be in the public interest. The Crown has significant discretion to continue or discontinue a prosecution.

An accused individual may also resolve a charge by entering a guilty plea, but you should speak to your lawyer or Duty Counsel before deciding to plead guilty.

Understanding what comes next when charged with a criminal offence can be extremely confusing. If you have any questions whatsoever, feel free to comment below or reach out to our office at 416-304-1414. We are happy to help.