CLA statement re the removal of Mark Wasyliw from the Manitoba NDP caucus

The Criminal Lawyers’ Association (CLA) joins the Criminal Defence Lawyer Association of Manitoba in condemning the Manitoba NDP’s actions in expelling Mark Wasilyw, along with their assertion that defence lawyers or those who associate with defence lawyers are unfit to be in their caucus. 

Everyone in Canada charged with a criminal offence, no matter how serious the allegations, is entitled to the presumption of innocence and entitled to have a criminal defence lawyer argue their case. The right to counsel in criminal cases is a vital part of our justice system and our democratic traditions and is enshrined in our constitution.

In vigorously representing her client, Gerri Wiebe performs a crucial public service, in the finest tradition of the bar. 

The stance taken by the Manitoba NDP is incompatible with the rule of law, incompatible with the presumption of innocence and incompatible with the Canadian Charter of Rights. 

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