Free criminal law answers · Ontario & Alberta
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The ten most asked
- What happens at a bail hearing in Ontario?
A bail hearing decides whether someone waits for their case at home or in custody.
- What does a court in Ontario look at when deciding whether to release or detain someone at a bail hearing?
The court decides three things, in order: will the person come back to court, is the public safe if they are released, and would releasing them undermine confidence in the justice system.
- What does a surety usually need to bring to a bail hearing in Ontario?
Usually government-issued photo ID, proof of address such as a bill or lease, and if they have it, proof of what they own or earn.
- What does a surety do in an Ontario bail case?
A surety is an adult who promises the court two things: to supervise someone released on bail, and to pledge an amount of money as that promise.
- How long does a bail hearing or bail court process usually take?
A person is usually brought before the court within 24 hours of arrest.
- What do the conditions on a release paper usually mean?
The paper police or the court hand over lists two things: the next court date, and the rules to follow until then.
- Can police search a person's phone after arrest?
Sometimes, but with real limits.
- Do people have to talk to the police if police call or contact them?
No. A person does not have to answer police questions, in person, at a station, or by phone.
- Can criminal charges be dropped or withdrawn?
Whether a charge is withdrawn, stayed, or goes to trial is the Crown prosecutor's decision, not the accused person's.
- After a first impaired driving (DUI) charge, does a person lose their driver's licence?
There are usually two separate things: an immediate roadside licence suspension, and the criminal court case.
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Sources
- Criminal Code of Canada
- Law Society of Ontario — who may give legal advice in Ontario
- Law Society of Alberta — who may give legal advice in Alberta
- Legal Aid Ontario · Legal Aid Alberta
Last checked: September 15, 2026
Free 24/7 criminal law information · not legal advice. Legal Aid Ontario: 1-800-668-8258 · Legal Aid Alberta: 1-866-845-3425
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