Quasi-Criminal prosecutions deal with breaches of Regulatory or Administrative Law, rather than Criminal Law. They are not classified as criminal charges per se because they are not based on breaking the Criminal Code or the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

While non-criminal in nature, Quasi-Criminal prosecutions share many similarities with criminal prosecutions. For example, some procedures in these cases can be similar to criminal cases. Moreover, the punishments imposed, such as jail, fines, or loss of an important license are also comparable. Moreover, the loss of licences such as to drive and serve alcohol may effect someone’s ability to earn a living.

Typically, the decision-makers in Quasi-Criminal cases are not judges, but panels and/or tribunals of experts. A justice of the peace with special jurisdiction may also rule over a Quasi-Criminal case.

Despite the similarities between Quasi-Criminal and criminal cases, there are salient differences. Rules of evidence are often more relaxed and subjective in such cases, and procedures can be more fluid than those used in criminal cases. This does not negate the seriousness of the consequences associated with Quasi-Criminal Prosecutions.

Should you be found guilty of a Quasi-Criminal charge, you may be facing equally serious punishment as a criminal charge, including imprisonment and monetary penalties.

At Caramanna Friedberg LLP, criminal law is not simply a vocation for us. It is our passion. Fighting for justice is in our DNA. Founded in 2002 by Sal Caramanna and Matthew Friedberg, our firm is now one of the largest criminal litigation firms in the province of Ontario. 

If you have been charged with a Quasi-Criminal offence, contact Caramanna Friedberg LLP today at (416) 924-5969.

See also Environmental Prosecutions, Tax prosecutions, Fraud.