Criminal Justice

From programming and advocacy to peer recognition and relevant resources, OBA Section membership connects you with education, engagement and leadership opportunities to propel you to the forefront of your area of practice.

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Resources, Articles, & Advocacy

Legislative Update | May 26, 2025

Your OBA LegUp Policy and Legislative Update Week of May 19

Toronto Passes Controversial 'Bubble Zone' Protest Bylaw: Toronto councillors have passed a bylaw aimed at restricting protests around places of worship, daycares and schools in the city. The bylaw – slated to come into effect on July 2 – allows schools, childcare centres and places of worship to request the city restrict protest within a 50-metre radius around their properties.

Ontario Court of Justice | May 21, 2025

Ontario Court of Justice- Province-wide expansion of the 12-Week Adjournment Practice Direction, effective June 2, 2025

As of June 2, 2025 the 12-Week Adjournment from First Appearance in Criminal Case Management Court for Counsel Matters will be expanding province-wide.

Article | May 16, 2025

Bridging the Justice Gap: How Marginalized Communities Can Navigate the Criminal Justice System

This article explores practical ways to improve access to the criminal justice system for marginalized communities in Canada. It highlights key support systems such as Legal Aid, pro bono clinics, court workers, and legal education tools, emphasizing the shared role of law students, lawyers, and institutions in closing the justice gap.

Advocacy | May 16, 2025

Your OBA LegUp Policy and Legislative Update Week of May 12

Province Tables Tariff-Era Budget: The Ford government plans to run a substantial deficit of almost $15 billion and spend more than $230 billion this year. On Thursday, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy presented the government’s 2025 budget, a document dominated by the tariff response and how it will impact the economy.

Advocacy | May 16, 2025

OBA Update - Budget 2025

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the government tabled A Plan to Protect Ontario, the 2025 provincial budget

Programs & Events

New programs and events are added daily. Check back soon to see what this section has to offer throughout the year.