CANADALAND Why We Should Let More People Out on Bail
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Oct 28, 2025 Michael Spratt, a criminal defense lawyer and expert on bail policy, joins Alicia, a former participant in a John Howard Society program. They dive into the nuances of bail reform, questioning the narrative that the system is broken. Spratt highlights how misinformation fuels public fear and pushes for stricter laws, while Alicia shares her personal journey through supervised bail, emphasizing the importance of community support in preventing recidivism. Together, they advocate for a balanced approach that weighs compassion and public safety.
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Bail Bill Is Largely Performative
- Bill C-14 is largely performative and won’t fix underlying justice problems.
- Michael Spratt warns it’s a political shield, not an evidence-based solution.
More Detention Can Increase Crime
- Detaining more people increases recidivism and harms community safety long-term.
- Spratt argues the U.S. example shows mass detention does not equal safety.
Law Changes Often Codify Practice
- Many proposed legal changes mirror existing courtroom practice.
- Spratt says adding reverse-onus offences often codifies what judges already consider.
