Sexual, Moral & Disorderly Conduct

Section 91(27) of the 1867 Constitution Act

The Criminal Code of Canada is a federal law passed by Parliament based on the jurisdiction granted by section 91(27) of the 1867 Constitution Act. It consists of general principles and sections that define criminal offences, which are grouped into categories such as offences against individuals, property, justice administration, sex crimes, currency crimes, and conspiracies. The Code defines criminal conduct and the punishments and procedures for prosecution. Enacted in 1892 and last consolidated in 1953, it has evolved to reflect societal changes through yearly amendments. The 1953 consolidation abolished common law crimes while retaining common law defences.