Talking to the Police
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In the Talking to the Police Fact Sheet: What happens when a crime is committed from People's Law School you will learn about:
- criminal law and the role of the police,
- reporting a crime and being a witness in court,
- being arrested, and going to court.
Contents[edit]
What is criminal Law[edit]
Criminal laws make it illegal for someone to hurt or steal from other people. People who are accused of breaking the criminal law are taken to court by the government.
Role of Police in Canada[edit]
A police officer’s duty is to protect the people in the community. In Canada, the police have to obey the law. If you believe a police officer is not obeying the rules of their role you can make a complaint.
To make a complaint about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) call 1.800.665.6878 or visit www.cpc-cpp.gc.ca. To make a complaint about police in B.C., contact the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner at https://www.opcc.bc.ca/complainant/how_to_file_a_complaint.html.
What to do if the police stop your car[edit]
The police may stop you for many reasons. For example you may have been driving too fast, talking on your phone or not wearing a seat belt. If a police car is behind or beside you with their lights flashing they may want to talk to you. Pull your car over to the right side of the road and stop.
If you are stopped the police officer will ask you several questions including:
- what is your name and address,
- whose car it is, and
- will ask for your driver’s licence and vehicle insurance papers.
Never offer the police money. It is a serious crime to bribe a police officer.
Police at your house[edit]
What if you see a crime happening[edit]
What if a crime happens to you[edit]
A witness in court[edit]
Innocent until proven guilty[edit]
[Arrest[edit]
Going to court[edit]
Help for victims and witnesses[edit]
About this fact sheet[edit]
- Learn more about Clicklaw Wikibooks or visit other wikibooks from People's Law School
About People's Law School[edit]
The People's Law School is a non-profit charitable society whose purpose is to provide British Columbians with reliable information about their rights and responsibilities under the law.
- Suite 150 - 900 Howe Street
- Vancouver, BC
- V6Z 2M4
- Tel: 604-331-5400
- Fax: 604-331-5401
- Email: info@publiclegaled.bc.ca
This fact sheet and other publications are available on the People's Law School website: www.publiclegaled.bc.ca
