In response to outbreaks of COVID-19 in prisons, Correctional Service Canada has suspended in-person visits in many areas. That said, friends and family still have other ways of contacting prisoners: Mail. As a precaution, mail is generally being quarantined for 72 hours before being delivered to prisoners. This means it may take longer than unusual for mail to reach prisoners. Before including anything in an envelope (other than a letter),...
In addition to placing prisoners in medical isolation, wardens in federal institutions also have the authority to implement a modified routine for health purposes. Modified routines are implemented to restrict movement within part of or an entire prison to contain the spread of COVID-19 and manage it. The decision to implement a modified routine is to be reviewed at least weekly to ensure it is for the shortest amount of time required. If a...
When a prisoner is entitled to make representations (for example, following an involuntary transfer or segregation placement), the prisoner is entitled to all information considered in making the decision. This is to allow the prisoner to make meaningful submissions to the decision-maker. However, there is an exception. Correctional Service Canada can refuse to disclose information when it would jeopardize the safety of any person, the security...
In general, Correctional Service Canada is required to respect the privacy of prisoners and not disclose information without consent. However, information can be shared in certain circumstances, particularly when it comes to victims. CSC will provide victims with certain information, if requested. This includes the prisoner's name, the offence the prisoner was convicted of, the length of the prisoner's sentence, and eligibility dates and review...
There are court filing fees that prisoners should be aware of before bringing applications in court. In the Federal Court, it costs $50 to have a notice of application issued. There are additional fees for setting hearing dates, bringing a motion to extend the time to file, etc. In the Superior Court of Justice, there may be a filing fees as well. For example, if a habeas corpus application is brought under the civil registry, then the civil...
COVID-19 has impacted Correctional Service Canada's visiting procedures. Below are a few points to remember before visiting: Not all prisons are allowing visits. Depending on local transmission, some institutions may not be allowing visitors. Check online to see whether the prison you plan to visit is allowing visitors. Prisons may be put on lock down at any time, so check before leaving home. Visits need to be booked in advance. Generally, they...
Prisoners are responsible for the safekeeping of the property in their possession. When the Service is responsible for the safekeeping of prisoner property, they must take all reasonable steps to protect prisoners' property. Correctional Service Canada has the discretion to compensate prisoners for property that is lost or damaged. Prisoners submit a claim form, and the decision-maker will decide if the claim is accepted and how much will be...
Disciplinary/institutional charges are different than criminal charges. Prisoners who commit a criminal act can be charged under the Criminal Code, and the matter would be tried in a court. Federal prisoners can also receive disciplinary charges, which are administrative proceedings not dealt with in court. Staff members handle minor charges, and an Independent Chairperson handles serious charges. In Disciplinary Court, witnesses can give...
In response to COVID-19, Correctional Service Canada has enacted various policies. One of these policies allows for medical isolation to avoid prisoners who have the virus spreading it to others. Medical isolation is required for: Prisoners coming into prison (following sentencing or on a suspension/revocation) Prisoners who have symptoms of COVID-19 Prisoners who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 Prisoners who have been in close contact with...
Federal prisoners are assessed over several weeks or months after they are transferred to a federal penitentiary. The prisoner's parole officer then recommends a security classification (minimum, medium, or maximum) and penitentiary to place the prisoner in. The final classification/placement decision is generally made by the Warden. Before a final decision is made, prisoners are entitled to rebut the recommendations. A prisoner may wish to...
