Beyond law and order

Photo: The Canadian Press

The Justice Department is asking Canadians to think beyond their preconceived notions about crimes — and the people who commit them — as the Liberal government readies long-promised reforms to the criminal justice system.

The interactive online consultation includes a survey asking participants to weigh in on a number of stories, such as one about a young single father caught stealing $800 from his employer, resulting in a criminal record that makes it harder for him to find a job.

The survey notes that theft under $5,000 makes up a quarter of all Criminal Code offences and asks participants to consider whether the judge should have considered another option, such as being required to pay the money back or attend a community-based program where he would get support.

Another section of the consultation lets Canadians watch a video of a personal story, such as a family affected by court delays following the homicide of their son, and take part in an online discussion, where the opinions are wide-ranging.

Steve Mihorean, the senior civil servant overseeing the review, says they wanted to allow people to share their perspectives on these issues while also arming them with knowledge that might not be as widely known by average Canadians.

The online consultation ends Jan. 15.