OBA Criminal Justice and Women Lawyers Forum PROGRAM | Original Program Date: June 7, 2017

Sexual assault prosecutions are complex and raise many conflicting issues while garnering broad media coverage. The Ontario government recently introduced funding for the provision of legal advice for the victims of sexual assault crimes. How will this affect the evidence of complainants who decide to pursue this route first before they speak to the police and if charges are laid?

With more complainants now represented, how does one prepare a victim for trial? How does a defence lawyer deal with complainant legal representation in terms of disclosure and preparation for cross-examination? How does each side manage the issue of solicitor/client privilege between the complainant and her lawyer and what are the issues that may affect a sexual assault trial? At trial, how do the rape myths come into play? Both Crown and Defence will discuss what they think the other side can do better while with the intention of all sides fully understanding what legal issues are permitted during examination.

Our stellar faculty will tackle these important questions while also considering the pros and cons of the civil process as the possible better route for sexual assault complaints instead of the criminal process.

Join us for an engaging conversation on an important and timely topic.

This event will also facilitate the Annual General Meeting for the OBA Criminal Justice Section and the presentation of the inaugural OBA Award of Excellence in Criminal Justice to Enzo Rondinelli, Lafontaine & Associates. We invite you to celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of our 2017 award recipient. The slate for the 2017-2018 OBA Criminal Justice Section Executive will be presented for approval by the Section via e-mail following the event.

AWARD RECIPIENT

Enzo Rondinelli, Lafontaine & Associates

PROGRAM CHAIRS

Bailey Duller, Nicole Tellier, Barristers & Solicitors
Erin Winocur, Criminal Law Division, Crown Attorney's Office

PROGRAM PANELISTS

The Honourable Justice Andras Schreck, Ontario Court of Justice
David Butt, Barrister
Danielle Robitaille, Henein Hutchison LLP
Jill Witkin, Criminal Law Division, Crown Attorney's Office