Trial Procedure
Hello
I have a couple of questions:
1) If I am defending myself; is it acceptable for me to sit down while the prosecutor questions the witness and presents his case (standing only while I do those things myself)? If yes, do I need to ask the JP permission to sit, or can I just do it?
2) Is there any limit to the number of submissions/arguments that I can put forth? I intend to challenge on at least three different fronts.
2) I'm charged with an HTA disobey sign. If I suggest to the prosecutor immediately prior to trial that if they withdraw the HTA charge, that I would not contest a municipal by-law charge, what is the likelihood it would be accepted? (I have a pile of paperwork, arguments, have already filed a s.7 request for a stay. Stay not granted but resulted in an adjournment at the request of the prosecutor.) And, if it is accepted, what is the process? Can the prosecutor/officer enter a brand new charge (by-law) at trial that day and withdraw the HTA? Also, if this is the case, should I insist that the crown withdraw the HTA before I plead guilty to the by-law offence? (Is there any chance they would re-neg on the deal and attempt to prosecute the HTA after a guilty plea to the by-law?)
Thanks!