Disclosure is the prosecution material provided to the accused so the defence can understand and answer the case.
The starting point
Depending on the case, disclosure can include police notes, witness statements, photographs, video, audio, expert material, records and other information. What exists varies significantly from file to file.
What to be careful about
Receiving disclosure is not the same as accepting the allegations as true. Defence counsel reviews what the material proves, what may be missing, whether additional disclosure should be requested and what legal or evidentiary issues arise.
How a lawyer can assess the issue
A useful review compares the disclosure with the client's account, identifies contradictions or gaps, considers admissibility and Charter issues where applicable, and evaluates realistic resolution and trial options.
Current Ontario context
Keep disclosure private and follow any restrictions attached to it. Ask counsel before sharing or publishing material from the criminal file.
Before a consultation
Bring the documents that control the issue and a short chronology of important dates. Avoid sending original documents or unnecessary sensitive information through a general website form.