Let’s get one thing clear: Every assault charge is serious and only the Crown Attorney’s office has the power to have it withdrawn. Even if the victim recants their testimony, the charge remains in place, which is a good reason to have a seasoned defence attorney at your side during the process.Under s. 265 of […]
The best defences available for those facing assault charges Read More »
Police forces and the Crown Attorney’s office treat assault very seriously. If you are charged with this crime, seek the guidance of legal counsel who can help you start building the best defence possible. Every case is unique but there are some of the key defences available to you. The best defence is self-defence Everyone
Common defences for those who have been charged with assault Read More »
When I’m representing a client accused of sexual assault, the defence we build is tailored to reflect the evidence to be presented. The primary evidence is testimony, with the alleged victim giving their version of the events in question. Since many sexual assault charges are not laid until months, or even years, after the alleged
What evidence can be used by the defence in sexual assault trials? Read More »
Third-party records are documents containing personal information about the victim or a witness connected to your case. They are something the person likely assumes will never be made public, since the information is often of a personal nature. Examples of third-party records are: notes taken by a counsellor, therapist, psychologist or doctor; hospital records; records
What are third-party records and why are they important? Read More »
When preparing to defend a client on sexual assault charges, one of the key considerations is whether that person should testify in their own defence. That decision is not as straightforward as it may seem, even if the defendant is adamant they are not guilty of the crime. There are many reasons for not having
If you are charged with sexual assault, should you testify? Read More »
Sexual assault is one of the most under-reported – and misunderstood – crimes in Canadian law. The Criminal Code defines it as any touching of another person without their consent where the touching is of a sexual nature, or where the sexual integrity of the alleged victim is violated. Sexual assault includes unwanted kissing or
Sexual assault is very common, and also very misunderstood Read More »
A few decades ago, the slogan “no means no” was commonly used in campaigns to educate the public about date rape and respecting boundaries. It still applies because if someone says “no” or “stop” and you don’t listen, you are committing an assault. But sexual consent goes well beyond that, and it is not just
What is sexual consent and why is obtaining it so important? Read More »
No one wants to be unfairly accused of any crime but the negative stigma attached to sexual assault charges can easily destroy reputations while tearing apart families and livelihoods. Those caught in this situation are consumed with fear and anger as they face a daunting legal process that can drag on for years, with no
What happens if you are falsely accused of sexual assault? Read More »
