The lengthy and extended criminal trial of the organizers of the "Freedom Convoy," Tamara Lich and Chris Barber, is approaching its end as lawyers prepare to present their final arguments this week.

They were among many organizers who brought a large number of protesters and big trucks to Ottawa in 2022 to protest against public health restrictions during the pandemic era and vaccine mandates.

Their criminal trial began in September 2023 and has suffered delays that have prolonged the proceedings for nearly a year.

Lich and Barber are accused of mischief, intimidation, and several charges related to advising others to break the law.

Barber also faces a charge of advising others to contravene a court order.

As part of her closing arguments, the court intends to prove that the two conspired together to organize an unlawful protest, and that the evidence against one should apply to both.

Throughout the trial, lawyers for Lich and Barber have argued that organizing the protest is not illegal activity and is protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.