What are Uttering Threats?
Uttering threats is defined under the Criminal Code of Canada as knowingly conveying or causing a person to receive a threat to cause death or bodily harm to any person, to damage property, or to harm an animal. This means that even if you did not intend to carry out the threat, you could still face charges if your words were perceived as threatening.
Here are some examples of what is meant by uttering threats:
- Direct threats of violence: “I’m going to kill you,” “I’ll beat you up,” or “I’ll break your legs.”
- Threats to property: “I’ll burn your house down,” or “I’ll destroy your car.”
- Threats to animals: “I’ll kill your dog,” or “I’ll hurt your cat.”
- Conditional threats: “If you don’t do X, I’ll Y,” where Y is a threat of harm.
- Cyberbullying and online threats: Making threats through social media, email, or text messages.
The Impact of Uttering Threats Charges
Being charged with uttering threats can have a significant impact on your life. A conviction can result in a criminal record, which can affect your employment, housing, and travel opportunities. Additionally, you may face fines or imprisonment. It’s essential to protect your reputation and future by seeking legal counsel as soon as possible.
Defences to Uttering Threats Charges
While every case is unique, there are potential defences to an uttering threats charge, including:
- Lack of intent: Demonstrating that you did not intend for your words to be taken as a threat, including as a result of severe impairment through alcohol or drugs.
- Identity: Questioning whether you were the person who made the threat.
- Credibility of the complainant: Challenging the credibility of the person who accused you of making the threat.
- Ambiguous language: Arguing that your words could be interpreted in different ways and did not constitute a threat.
It is important to note that building a strong defence requires the expertise of a skilled criminal lawyer.
Armoured Suits: Your Defence Against Uttering Threats Charges
At Armoured Suits, we understand the seriousness of uttering threats charges and the potential impact they can have on your life. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of legal representation. We will thoroughly investigate your case, build a solid defence, and fight aggressively to protect your rights.
Don’t face these charges alone. Contact Armoured Suits today for a free 30 min consultation.