What is the current state of the law on the W(D) instruction in sexual assault cases?

Alberta, Canada


The following excerpt is from R v EM, 2021 ABPC 149 (CanLII):

At the same time, the statement is too broad. As noted in R v. Gray, 2012 ABCA 51, the W(D) instruction only applies to exculpatory evidence, not evidence that is inculpatory or neutral. A jury may believe the accused’s testimony about his antecedents – married, with two children, employed as a welder – and his activities on the day in question until the time of the offence, but then totally disbelieve the exculpatory evidence that he was not involved in the crime. It is only the latter evidence to which the instruction applies and failure to make that clear may leave the jury confused.

Other Questions


Are there any allegations of sexual assault, sexual assault or sexual assault against a minor? (Alberta, Canada)
How have courts dealt with sexual harassment allegations in the context of sexual assault cases? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the current state of the law regarding the role of a judge in taking a case from the jury? (Alberta, Canada)
What is relevant evidence to support a finding of intent in a sexual assault case? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the current state of the law on expert testimony in medical malpractice cases? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the test for the defence in a sexual assault case? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the case law in the United States when it comes to the case of a lay-man who is not qualified to stand trial? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the "functional" approach to assessing damages in a sexual assault case? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the test for applying the doctrine of jurisdiction in the context of sexual assault cases? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the effect of s.24(2) of the Charter on the use of search warrants in sexual assault cases? (Alberta, Canada)
X



Alexi white


"The most advanced legal research software ever built."

Trusted by top litigators from across North America.