Bill C-270

If you have any questions or comments regarding the accessibility of this publication, please contact us at accessible@parl.gc.ca.

PDF

	SUMMARY
	The purpose of this enactment is to protect persons accused of a crime and their families from the effect of media reports that cause public suspicion, speculation and outrage before guilt has been established.
	Early publication of criminal proceedings can cause irreversible harm that is not justified in the case of an accused who is later acquitted. The enactment forbids publication of the identity of a person facing charges before the initial finding of guilt or innocence by a court. The enactment does not in any way impede the right of the public to attend any court proceedings.
	An exception is provided to allow a judge to permit public disclosure if the accused is avoiding arrest, has escaped custody or has breached a probation order as this may be necessary to protect the public. Also it is made clear that the enactment does not prevent disclosure within a law enforcement context to allow police and other law enforcement officers to share information for such purposes as investigation and for proper screening of applicants for firearms acquisition.
	The preamble states Parliament`s determination that the resultant restriction on freedom of expression, which is in effect a requirement to delay publication, is demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society, in order to protect the principle of presumption of innocence.