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The CBA Young Lawyers Section presents:
Criminal Law Reform – Are Stricter Bail Laws or Tougher Sentencing Necessary?
CBA Young Lawyers Student Outreach & Networking
March 13, 2026 | 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM Eastern
In-person / Hybrid
Lead Sponsor
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Join Us for an Inspiring Lunch and Learn Presentation.
The CBA National Young Lawyers Section is thrilled to host a special presentation in partnership with the Law Students Section that focuses on networking and the future of criminal law reform in Canada, examining the contentious issues of stricter bail laws and mandatory minimum sentences. The recent introduction of legislation such as the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act aims to enhance public safety by making bail harder to obtain for repeat and violent offenders and by imposing tougher penalties for specific crimes. However, critics argue that these “tough on crime” measures, including the expanded use of reverse onus provisions, risk violating Charter rights, disproportionately affect Indigenous and marginalized communities, and contribute to overcrowded jails filled with legally innocent individuals. Our expert panelists will dissect the evidence surrounding these reforms, weighing the goals of public safety and victim protection against fundamental principles such as the presumption of innocence, judicial discretion, and the potential for long-term systemic consequences.
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Speakers:
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Brandon Anand Chung, Henein Hutchison Robitaille LLP (Toronto, ON)
Melanie J. Webb, Webb Barristers (Toronto, ON)
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Moderator:
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Adelina Iftene, Schulich School of Law (Halifax, NS)
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This event will be delivered as a virtual webinar, with in-person group viewing sessions hosted by participating law schools nationwide.
Why Attend?
- Make a Difference: Discover how proposed changes on bail laws and sentencing help navigate complex legal issues that significantly impact community safety, judicial discretion, and the rights of the accused.
- Serve Vulnerable Populations: Learn how advocating for the legal, social, and constitutional implications of criminal bail reform can be incredibly fulfilling.
- Build Meaningful Relationships: See how open discussion fosters critical thinking and long-term relationships for public safety and fairness in the justice system.
- Collaborate Across Disciplines: Explore how lawyers work alongside academics, communities, and policymakers in shaping just and effective justice system reform.
- Drive Social Change: Find out how engaging in open law discussions can lead to advocacy efforts aimed at improving laws and policies relating to the justice system.
