The standard of “beyond a reasonable doubt” was emphasized by defence lawyer Andrew Hitchcock in his closing argument at the Misha Pavelick murder trial on Monday.

The accused in the case was 17 at the time of the killing in 2006, so he cannot be publicly named, as per the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Witnesses who were under 18 at the time are also not being named.

In his argument, Hitchcock reminded the jury of the seriousness of their role, to remember their oath, and to apply the law.

“You have to be sure. If you think it’s possible (the accused) did it, your vote is not guilty. If you think he probably did it, your vote is not guilty. If you think he’s the most likely of the four, or five, or six, your vote is not guilty,” he explained.

It was a statement echoed by Justice Catherin

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