Expanded rules prevent sexual assault complainant's past from being used against them during court trials.
The Supreme Court of Canada has voted to uphold expansions made four years ago to Canada's rape shield laws.
In a 6-3 ruling made earlier today, the court says the expanded rules to further prevent a sexual assault complainant's past from being used to discredit them during a trial are constitutional.
Rape shield laws were initially enacted four decades ago, to protect sexual assault complainant from having their sexual history used against them in court.
According to the Criminal Code, evidence of a complainant's prior sexual activities unrelated to the charges at hand can only be allowed following a private hearing with a judge.
It also can't be used to suggest the plaintiff isn't trustworthy.
Four years ago, the Liberals expanded the definition of what that evidence includes, adding emails and videos of a sexual nature, as well as documents the accused may have about the complainant.
It also granted plaintiffs the right to partake in the screening hearing with the judge and be represented by a lawyer.

SWPH Issues Cold Weather Alert
Oxford OPP Briefs - Dec. 15th 2025
White Christmas Not Guaranteed for Oxford
PJHL Recap - Dec 12th to Dec 14th
Holiday Safety Tips from OCAR
Paris Man Charged with Impaired
Rob Reiner Dead at 78
Christmas Lights Stolen in Ingersoll
UPDATE: Cyber Security Experts Investigating Oxford Incident
PJHL Preview - Dec. 12th to Dec. 14th
Tour of Lights Begins this Weekend
Drunk Drivers Charged in Woodstock
Week Three Results for Festive RIDE Campaign
Woodstock Passes 2026 Capital Budget
WFD Respond to Two Fires in the City
An Impaired Driver was Caught in EZT
Oxford OPP Investigating Serious Collision
Interview with the Warden - December 11th, 2025
SWOX Christmas Lights Contest Returns!
Ingersoll Choral Society Presents: Christmas Bells
Comments
Add a comment