Stages and participation in the criminal court process | Gouvernement du Québec

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Consult the summary of the judicial process for adults in criminal cases (PDF 443 Kb)

File a complaint with the police

Find out how to report a crime to the police and what to do.

Complaint follow-up and police investigation

Find out more about the steps in the police investigation and how to give the police further information, obtain information, and withdraw a complaint.

Prosecutor's analysis of investigation report and charges

Find out more about the work of the prosecutor, who decides whether or not to lay charges against a suspect.

Contacting the prosecutor dealing with your case

Find out how to contact the criminal and penal prosecuting attorney (prosecutor) dealing with your case.

Detention or release of the perpetrator of a crime

Find out in what circumstances a suspect or a person facing charges will be placed in detention or released, and the criteria for the release of a suspect currently in custody.

Disclosure of evidence, testimony and trial

Find out how you, as the victim, can see the evidence gathered, how you can prepare to testify in court, and how a trial is organized.

Verdict, sentence, and appeal

Find out what are the possible verdict and learn more about the criteria taken into account by the judge when sentencing the offender, and about the cases that can be appealed.

Sentencing hearing and victim impact statement

Participate in the defendant's sentencing hearing by completing a victim impact statement, to inform the judge of the consequences of the crime.

Reimbursement of expenses (meetings with a prosecutor)

Find out more about the expenses connected to meetings with the prosecutor that can be reimbursed to victims, and how to apply for reimbursement.

Change of address during court proceedings

Find out how to inform the prosecutor and the court if you, as the victim, change your address while court proceedings are ongoing.

Last update: January 10, 2024