Checklist: At your trial

When the case is called

• If the prosecutor isn’t ready to go to trial on the assigned date and requests an adjournment, ask the judge to dismiss the charges against you.

  When the Crown presents its case

  • Listen and take notes as the prosecutor presents the Crown’s case.
    • Write down any questions you may have about what the Crown’s witnesses say.
      • Cross-examine the Crown’s witnesses (if you think that it’ll help your case).
        • Check whether the prosecutor has proven that:
          • through witness testimony, you’re identified in court as the person who committed the offence,
          • you’re the person charged,
          • you intended to do it, you did do it, and
          • the offence took place within the court’s jurisdiction. 

          When you present your defence

          • Testify (if you’ve decided to do this after having spoken to a lawyer).
          • Call your own witnesses for questioning.
          • Use any documents that you’ve submitted as evidence.
          • Present your submission.

          • When the judge makes a decision

            • If you’re found guilty, speak to the judge before you’re sentenced. To learn about this process, read Speaking to the Judge Before You’re Sentenced.