JIBC Canadian Criminal Justice System 4

Question 1

What is the maximum sentence for a summary conviction offence in Canada following amendments to the Criminal Code?

Accepted Answer

2 years less a day imprisonment

Answer

Following amendments enacted in 2019, the maximum penalty for most summary conviction offences was increased to two years less a day, replacing the prior six-month maximum.

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT one of the stated objectives of sentencing under s. 718 of the Criminal Code?

Accepted Answer

Elimination of poverty as a root cause of crime

Answer

Section 718 lists six sentencing objectives including denunciation, deterrence, separation, rehabilitation, reparation, and promoting responsibility; eliminating poverty is not among them.

Question 3

In Canada, which court has the final authority to interpret the Constitution and Canadian law?

Accepted Answer

The Supreme Court of Canada

Answer

The Supreme Court of Canada is the highest court in the country and has final appellate jurisdiction over all Canadian law, including constitutional matters.

Question 4

What is a 'conditional sentence order' (CSO) in Canadian sentencing?

Accepted Answer

A sentence of imprisonment served in the community under strict conditions

Answer

A conditional sentence order (s. 742.1 Criminal Code) allows an offender sentenced to less than two years to serve that sentence in the community under strict conditions, rather than in a correctional facility.

Question 5

What principle requires that courts impose the least restrictive sanction necessary to achieve the sentencing objectives?

Accepted Answer

The restraint principle

Answer

The restraint principle (also called the principle of restraint or parsimony) directs courts to impose the least severe sentence capable of achieving the purposes of sentencing.

JIBC - Justice Institute of British Columbia Practice Test

JIBC - Justice Institute of British Columbia Practice Test

JIBC Canadian Criminal Justice System 4