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Surrey inmate fights B.C. using balance of probabilities in prison disciplinary hearings

Judge denies B.C. government’s application to strike the challenge
34378439_web1_231102-SUL-SryPretrialBalanceProbabilities-scales_1
Statue of Lady Justice at Vancouver courthouse. (File photo)

A Surrey Pretrial centre inmate backed by the West Coast Prison Justice Society is challenging the provincial government’s use of the balance of probabilities standard of proof in prison disciplinary hearings on grounds it violates the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Christopher Trotchie and the not-for-profit society maintain the government should require proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Justice Karen Douglas rendered her reasons for judgment on Oct.

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About the Author: Tom Zytaruk

I write unvarnished opinion columns and unbiased news reports for the Surrey Now-Leader.
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