NCJ Number
81409
Date Published
1981
Length
90 pages
Annotation
This handbook is a compendium of Canadian initiatives in criminal justice since 1966; often, these initiatives have been developed in consultation with the provinces and the private sector.
Abstract
The data revealed several trends. In general, penalties for nonviolent offenses have been reduced, and penalties for violent crimes have been increased. Federal-Provincial and Federal-private sector cooperation have undergone a large and productive expansion. Law enforcement and correctional agencies are becoming more open and accountable to the public. A continuing movement toward an equitable and humane justice system, in which the rights of offenders as well as the rights of the innocent are defined and guarded, is clearly identifiable. Specific subjects covered include the first 100 years of the Canadian criminal justice system, the legal framework of the Federal justice system, the Minister of Justice and the Solicitor of Canada, Federal-Provincial cooperation and consultation, and the private sector. Special inquiries (study commissions) are noted, and legislation and sentencing in regard to 28 different criminal justice issues are delineated. Law enforcement concerns are noted for general policing and national security. In addition, initiatives relating to incarceration, parole, diversion, and special groups (women, natives, and juveniles) are discussed, along with Federal-Provincial programs providing aid to individuals. A bibliography contains about 100 references. (Author abstract modified)