Introduction

This concept contains information about a variable known as “CHARGE_STATUS”. This variable provides information on the status of a charge as it progresses through the Judicial System. For example, if charges are laid, if they are pending, or if they have been disposed. The categorical variable is derived from the Justice Prosecution and Scheduling Management (PRISM) database using the charges dataset available in the MCHP Data Repository.

This concept includes information on the data source(s) for the “CHARGE_STATUS” variable, background information, a description of the methods used to develop the ‘proceeding’ and ‘not proceeding’ definition and cautions / limitations about using this indicator.

Definition and background information

Not all charges reach the final stage of disposition; sometimes the charges do not proceed. However, whether a charge proceeds or not, the charge is still indicative of some contact with the justice system.

A charge is classified as proceeding if the charge type reports any of the following:


• Laid
  
• Disposed
  
• Diversion
  
• Post-Charge Diversion
  
• Crown Appeal
  
• Accused Appeal

A charge is classified as not proceeding if the charge type reports any of the following:


• No Charge Laid
  
• Discharged
  
• Stayed
  
• Pre-Charge
  
• Pre-Charge Diversion
  
• Crown Opinion
  
• Crown Opinion Diversion
  
• Pending

If a charge proceeds it means that it “sticks” and the individual will have or has had more contact with the justice system beyond the initial charge. The individual charged with a crime proceeded to the next stage of the process where they go to court, or if they’ve already gone to court, appeal a decision given by the court. If the charge does not proceed it means that the individual will have no additional contact with the justice system and will not be formally convicted of the crime they were accused of committing.