This course provides students with an understanding of the basic principles of the law of evidence in Canada. Common law and statutory rules of evidence (Canada Evidence Act, Criminal Code, Ontario Evidence Act) are analyzed in light of the principles underlying the adversary system. The effect of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms upon the law of evidence is also examined. Some of the subjects that will be studied include relevancy, probative value and prejudicial effect; the competence and compellability of witnesses; the rule against hearsay evidence; character evidence; similar fact evidence; credibility; opinion evidence; and the principles governing privilege.

Wednesdays April 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; Tuesdays June 6, 13, 20, 26; July 4, 11; (6:30-9:30)
Note this course takes place at OsgoodePD (1 Dundas)