Know Your Rights
If a police officer stops you in the street, do you have to answer their questions?
No, you have the right to remain silent unless they are arresting or detaining you.
At what age can you legally start working in Ontario?
14 years old (with some restrictions for hazardous jobs).
What is the punishment for shoplifting in Ontario for first-time offenders?
Possible diversion program, fine, or community service instead of jail time.
What is the role of a judge in a court case?
They decide on legal matters, guilt/innocence (if no jury), and sentencing.
True or False – If you’re arrested, you must speak to the police right away.
False – You have the right to remain silent.
What must the police tell you if they arrest you?
They must inform you of your right to remain silent, the reason for arrest, and your right to a lawyer.
What is the legal drinking age in Ontario?
19 years old.
If you’re caught with a fake ID, what can happen?
It can be confiscated, you can be fined, and you may get banned from bars or stores.
What is the difference between a criminal case and a civil case?
Criminal cases involve breaking laws (e.g., theft), while civil cases involve disputes (e.g., unpaid rent).
True or False – Carrying a small amount of drugs like cocaine or ecstasy is legal in Ontario.
False - Possession of controlled drugs is illegal.
If police ask to search your phone, do you have to let them?
No, unless they have a warrant or you give permission.
If you are under 22 and have a G2 license, what is the legal zero-tolerance rule?
You cannot have any alcohol or cannabis in your system while driving.
What is the difference between theft under $5,000 and theft over $5,000?
Theft under $5,000 is a less serious charge; over $5,000 is more severe and can lead to jail time.
What does “pleading guilty” mean?
You admit to the crime, and the case moves to sentencing without a trial.
True or False – If you are under 18, your parents are responsible for crimes you commit.
False – Only the person charged is responsible, but parents may have to pay for damages.
What is the “Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA)”, and who does it apply to?
It is a law that applies to youth ages 12-17 and focuses on rehabilitation instead of punishment.
Can your employer fire you for no reason in Ontario?
Yes, an employer can legally fire an employee without cause in Ontario, so long as the company gives the employee enough notice of the termination, proper severance pay, or a combination of the two.
If you are 17 years old and charged with a crime, will you go to adult court?
No, you will be tried under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, unless it is a serious violent crime.
What is a bail hearing?
A court hearing to decide if an accused person can be released while waiting for trial.
True or False – If you skip paying your taxi fare, the company can call the police.
True – This is considered theft or fraud under $5,000.
What is a “duty counsel” and when can you use one?
A free lawyer available if you don’t have your own lawyer when you go to court.
What is the minimum wage in Ontario for someone under 18?
$16.70 for someone or a student under 18 or $17.20 for someone over the age of 18
What is assault and does it require physical contact?
No, assault can include threats or attempts to harm someone, even without touching them.
If you can’t afford a lawyer, what are your options?
You may qualify for Legal Aid Ontario, or get help from duty counsel.
True or False – If you get a criminal record, it will disappear automatically after 10 years.
False – You must apply for a record suspension (pardon) to clear it.