Course Description

This course focuses on the practical implementation of Impact of Race and Culture Assessments (IRCAs) and Enhanced Pre-Sentence Reports (EPSRs) in sentencing Black offenders. These reports connect systemic racism to individual offenders’ circumstances, aiding judges in crafting fair and proportionate sentences. The course outlines the content of IRCAs, including systemic, biographical, and rehabilitative recommendations, while addressing challenges like report preparation, funding, and availability across jurisdictions. When IRCAs or EPSRs are unavailable, alternative methods to present social context evidence are discussed.

The content of this course was last updated in December 2024.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Department of Justice Canada.