Sexual assault law training required for new judges

New judges will have to commit to take training in sexual assault law, after legislation received royal assent Thursday night. Bill C-3 was passed in the Senate, marking the third attempt to see a law of this nature passed by Parliament. The legislation will require new federally appointed judges to agree to take training, including learning about rape myths and stereotypes and how to make sure biases about race, gender and other social factors do not influence their decisions. It will also require judges to put their reasons on the record when ruling on sexual assault cases. Justice Minister David Lametti said these changes will help ensure survivors of sexual assault are treated with respect and dignity in their interactions with the criminal justice system.