[37] The concept of "reasonable grounds to believe" imports a measure of uncertainty. In Descôteaux v. Mierzwinski (1982), 1982 CanLII 22 (SCC), 70 C.C.C. (2d) 385, (S.C.C.), Lamer J. (as he then was) stated at p.410: After all, searches, while constituting a means of gathering evidence, are also an investigative tool. It will often be difficult to determine definitively the probative value of a particular thing before the police investigation has been completed. Later, at p.412, he continued: As I have already stated, a search warrant is not only a means of gathering evidence, but also an investigative tool. Therefore, a determination of what is reasonable in each case will take into account the fact that a search makes it possible not only to seize evidence but also to ascertain that it exists, and even sometimes that the crime was in fact committed and by whom.
"The most advanced legal research software ever built."
The above passage should not be considered legal advice. Reliable answers to complex legal questions require comprehensive research memos. To learn more visit www.alexi.com.