Ontario Severance

Ontario (Ministry of Labour) v. Lee Valley Tools Ltd.

2009 ONCA 387 (CanLII)Court of Appeal for OntarioDecided Workplace injury and workers' compensation

OHSA Prosecution: Stay of Proceedings for Prejudice

Summary

This is an appeal concerning a stay of proceedings granted in a prosecution under the Occupational Health and Safety Act for workplace safety violations. The appellant argued that pre-charge delay and the unavailability of a key witness violated its Charter right to a fair trial. The Court of Appeal reviewed whether the trial judge erred in finding actual prejudice to the right to a fair trial.

Outcome

appeal dismissed

Key Factors

  • Occupational Health and Safety Act
  • stay of proceedings
  • Charter rights
  • prejudice to fair trial
  • missing witness

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This is legal information, not legal advice. Ontario Severance is an educational tool. If you are facing a serious employment law matter, consult with a qualified employment lawyer in Ontario.