# Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers Ottawa

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## Posts
### Got Arrested? A Complete Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Rights
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="19px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="3px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Intro" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]An arrest can turn an ordinary day into one of the most frightening moments of your life. Even people who have never had any interaction with the criminal justice system can suddenly find themselves handcuffed, questioned, and unsure of what comes next. Fear, confusion, and adrenaline often take over - exactly when clear thinking matters most.
If you or someone close to you has been arrested, knowing what to expect and how to respond can make a real difference. The early hours of a criminal case are critical. What you say, what you do, and who you speak to can influence everything that follows.
At Armoured Suits, we believe informed clients are better protected clients. This guide explains, step by step, what happens during an arrest in Canada, what your rights are, when to contact a lawyer, what not to say to police, how the bail process works, and why 24/7 legal assistance matters.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Understanding" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Understanding the Arrest Process: What Actually Happens
An arrest begins the moment police clearly tell you that you are under arrest or detained and that you are not free to leave. This can happen in many settings—at home, at work, during a traffic stop, or in public. Sometimes it comes after an investigation. Other times, it feels sudden and unexpected.
Once police place you under arrest, or detain you for investigative purposes, they are legally required to:
Inform you that you are being arrested or detained
Explain the reason for the arrest
Advise you of your right to speak with a lawyer
You may be searched at the scene for officer safety. This is common and does not imply guilt. You may also be handcuffed, even if you are calm and cooperative.
From there, you are typically transported to a police station. This is where many people begin to panic—but understanding the process can help you stay grounded.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="What Happens" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]What Happens at the Police Station
At the station, several things may occur depending on the charge and circumstances:
Police will confirm your identity
Personal belongings are logged and secured
Fingerprints and photographs may be taken
Officers may attempt to question you
A decision is made about release or detention
Some people are released from the station with conditions or paperwork. Others are held for a bail hearing. The key point to understand is this: everything that happens at the station matters, especially what you say.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Legal Rights" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Your Legal Rights During an Arrest in Canada
Canadian law provides strong protections for people who are arrested or detained. These rights exist to ensure fairness, not to protect wrongdoing.
The Right to Remain Silent
You are not required to answer police questions about the alleged offence. You must provide basic identifying information, but beyond that, silence is your legal right.
Many people believe refusing to answer questions makes them look guilty. In reality, police are trained to gather evidence - not to determine innocence. Remaining silent cannot be used against you in court.
The Right to Know Why You’re Being Arrested
Police must tell you why you are being arrested in clear, understandable language. If you do not understand, you have the right to ask for clarification.
The Right to Speak to a Lawyer Immediately
This is one of the most important rights you have. Police must give you a reasonable opportunity to contact a lawyer without delay and to speak privately.
If police continue questioning you after you’ve asked for a lawyer, that may violate your rights.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/rawpixel-id-5946354-jpeg.jpg" title_text="rawpixel-id-5946354-jpeg" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" width="100%" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="When to Call" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]When to Call a Lawyer (Hint: It’s Earlier Than You Think)
Many people wait too long to contact a lawyer. They assume charges must be laid first, or that legal help is only needed later. This is a mistake.
You should ask to speak with a lawyer the moment you are arrested or detained.
Early legal advice can:
Prevent damaging statements
Ensure your rights are respected
Help you navigate police questioning
Influence whether you are released quickly
Shape your defence from the very beginning
The earlier a lawyer is involved, the more options you may have.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Questioning" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Police Questioning: Why Saying Less Is Almost Always Better
Police officers are trained interviewers. They often appear calm, friendly, or sympathetic. They may say things like:
“We just want your side of the story”
“This will go easier if you cooperate”
“Now’s your chance to explain”
What many people don’t realize is that anything you say can be used against you, even statements you believe are harmless or helpful.
What You Should NOT Say to Police
Avoid:
Explaining events in detail
Guessing timelines or facts
Trying to justify your actions
Apologizing
Making jokes or casual comments
Saying you have no memory of what is alleged
Even offhand remarks can be recorded, misunderstood, or later presented in court. Once something is said, it cannot be taken back.
The safest response is simple and respectful:
“I choose to remain silent and would like to speak to a lawyer.”[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Release or Detention" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Release or Detention: What Determines the Next Step?
After processing, police decide whether to release you or hold you for a bail hearing.
You may be released if:
The offence is less serious
You have no prior criminal history
Police believe you will attend court
There is no public safety concern
Release may come with conditions, such as:
No contact orders
Curfews
Travel restrictions
Mandatory court dates
Violating these conditions can result in new charges, even if the original charge is still before the court.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Bail Process" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]The Bail Process Explained
If police do not release you, you will be held for a bail hearing—usually within 24 hours.
What Is a Bail Hearing?
A bail hearing determines whether you should be released while your case proceeds, or held in custody. Bail is not about guilt or innocence. It’s about risk.
The court considers:
Will you attend court as required?
Do you pose a risk to public safety?
Would release undermine confidence in the justice system?
Why Legal Representation Matters at Bail
A lawyer can:
Argue for your release
Propose reasonable conditions
Present a structured release plan
Address the court’s concerns effectively
Bail decisions can affect your employment, family life, and mental health. Strong advocacy at this stage can change the course of your case.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminallaw-background.jpg" title_text="criminallaw-background" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" width="100%" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Life after Release" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Life After Release: What to Expect
Being released does not mean your case is over. Court appearances, disclosure review, and possible negotiations lie ahead.
Common mistakes after release include:
Talking about the case with friends or on social media
Violating release conditions unintentionally
Ignoring court paperwork
Delaying legal follow-up
Every step forward should be taken with the legal guidance of a criminal defence lawyer..[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Why" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Why 24/7 Legal Assistance Is So Important
Arrests don’t happen on a convenient schedule. They happen late at night, early in the morning, on weekends, and during holidays - when fear is high and options feel limited.
Access to legal help at any hour means:
You are not facing police alone
You receive immediate, accurate advice
Your rights are protected from the first moment
Decisions are made calmly, not out of panic
In many cases, the first phone call after an arrest is the most important one you will make.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Knowledge" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Knowledge Is Protection
An arrest is not a conviction. It does not define who you are. But the hours immediately following an arrest can shape your future in ways most people don’t realize.
Staying calm. Staying silent. Calling a defence lawyer early.
These simple steps protect your rights, your freedom, and your peace of mind.
If you or someone you care about is facing arrest or criminal charges, obtaining a criminal defence lawyer should never wait.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Understanding Warrants: What You Need to Know and How We Can Help
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="19px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="3px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Intro" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]In Ontario—and across Canada—warrants are legal tools used by the justice system to compel someone's presence in court or custody. While the term may sound straightforward, there are actually several types of warrants, each carrying different legal consequences and procedures. If you or someone you know is facing a warrant, it's essential to understand what it means—and how Armoured Suits can help you navigate the process.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Types of Warrants " _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Types of Warrants 
Let’s break down the main types of warrants you may encounter in a criminal context:
 
1. Warrants of First Instance
A warrant of first instance is typically issued by a judge or justice of the peace when police have reasonable grounds to arrest someone but cannot locate them. This type of warrant is often linked to a new criminal charge or ongoing investigation.
How We Help:
When a warrant of first instance has been issued, it doesn’t necessarily mean the person will be held in custody. Our job is to guide the accused through the process of surrendering into custody—commonly referred to as “turning themselves in.” This is often done in a controlled, strategic way, allowing us to minimize risks. In many cases, we’ll prepare a bail plan in advance to present to the court if necessary. Our aim is to help the accused avoid unnecessary detention.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Bench Warrants" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]2. Bench Warrants
A bench warrant is issued by a judge or justice when someone who was previously released (often on bail) fails to appear in court as required. This kind of warrant can be especially serious, as it often includes an additional failure to appear charge on top of the original allegations.
How We Help:If you’ve missed a court date and believe a bench warrant has been issued, it’s important to act fast. We assist clients in surrendering at the courthouse—not the police station—so the process is as seamless and safe as possible. While surrendering doesn’t automatically mean the person will be held for bail, the chances are higher than with a first instance warrant. That’s why we often prepare a bail plan ahead of time to improve the odds of release.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Search Warrants" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]3. Search Warrants
Unlike arrest-related warrants, a search warrant allows police to enter a specific property—such as a home, vehicle, or office—to look for evidence related to a crime. These are granted by a judge or justice of the peace when there are reasonable grounds to believe that evidence of an offence will be found at that location. While a search warrant does not target a person directly for arrest, it can lead to charges depending on what is discovered. If your property has been searched or you believe it may be, it's crucial to get legal advice immediately to ensure your rights are protected and to understand what your next steps should be.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Unlawfully at Large" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]4. Unlawfully at Large
The offence of being unlawfully at large arises when someone is legally required to be in custody—such as after sentencing—but fails to report or return to jail. This is a separate criminal offence and can carry serious consequences.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Why Legal Support Matters" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Why Legal Support Matters
Dealing with a warrant is not something to take lightly. Whether it’s a warrant of first instance, a bench warrant, or a charge of being unlawfully at large, each situation can spiral quickly if not addressed properly.
At Armoured Suits, we focus on protecting your rights while helping you take the necessary steps toward resolving the warrant. From organizing a controlled surrender to preparing a strong bail plan, we aim to give our clients the best possible outcome during a stressful and often confusing time.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Facing a Warrant? Let’s Talk." _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Facing a Warrant? Let’s Talk.
If you believe there’s a warrant out for your arrest—or you’ve already been charged—don’t wait. Contact Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers today. We’ll walk you through the next steps and stand by your side every step of the way.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### You’ve Been Served! What You Need to Know About Subpoenas
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="19px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="3px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Getting served with a subpoena can be stressful, especially if you’ve never been involved in any legal matters. A subpoena is a serious legal document, and understanding what it means—and what you should do next—is important. 
At Armoured Suits, we help people across Ontario navigate legal challenges, including the kind that come with a subpoena. Here’s what you should know.
What Is a Subpoena?
In simple terms, a subpoena is a legal document that tells you you're required to show up to court, or in some cases, to bring specific documents with you. It’s not a request—it’s an order. And ignoring it can result in serious consequences, including fines or even jail time.
There are two main types of subpoenas in Canada:
Subpoena ad testificandum: This one’s about testifying in court. You’re being asked to appear in person and speak about what you know.
Subpoena duces tecum: This one requires you to bring certain records or documents that are relevant to the case.
Who Can Be Subpoenaed?
The short answer—almost anyone. If you witnessed something, have information that might be useful to the case, or have records that are relevant, you can be subpoenaed.
This could include:
Eyewitnesses to a crime or incident
People with specialized knowledge, like doctors or financial experts
Those in possession of documents or evidence, like business records or personal emails
In criminal cases, subpoenas often come from the Crown or the defence. In civil cases, they might come from one of the lawyers or the court directly.
What Happens When You Receive a Subpoena?
If you receive a subpoena, it will typically be served in person and will spell out where and when you need to be in court, and whether you’re being asked to testify, produce documents, or both. Once you’ve read it over, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer—especially if you’re unsure why you’re being called or whether your rights might be affected.
Once served, you are legally required to comply.
What If You Can’t Attend?
If you genuinely cannot attend on the date specified—for example, due to illness or travel—you must contact the lawyer who issued the subpoena or the court immediately. You may be able to request a deferral or exemption, but do not ignore the subpoena. Ignoring it can lead to a warrant for your arrest or charges for contempt of court.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
Not everyone who gets a subpoena needs to have a lawyer, but there are situations where legal advice is strongly recommended:
If you're worried about saying something that could get you into trouble
If the subpoena is asking for confidential or sensitive information
If you’re unsure why you were called in the first place
If you’re a professional being asked to release records that fall under privacy laws
At Armoured Suits, we regularly help people in exactly these kinds of situations. A quick consultation can help you understand your rights and your responsibilities—and potentially save you from making a costly mistake.
What Are Your Rights?
Even if the court has ordered you to appear, you’re still protected under the law. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
You can refuse to answer questions that would incriminate you (this is a Charter right)
You can bring a lawyer with you
You may be entitled to a small witness fee and reimbursement for travel expenses
In some cases, it’s possible to challenge the subpoena, especially if it’s too broad or wasn’t issued properly
Subpoenas in Criminal vs. Civil Court
Subpoenas are common in both criminal and civil proceedings, but how they're used can vary. In criminal cases, they're often used to ensure key witnesses show up, especially if there’s a chance they might be reluctant. In civil matters, like personal injury or family law disputes, subpoenas are usually used to gather documents or secure expert testimony.
The Bottom Line
A subpoena isn’t a punishment or accusation—it's a tool used by the court to ensure they have access to all the relevant information before making a decision.
If you’ve received a subpoena and are unsure about what to do next, contact Armoured Suits. We’ll walk you through it and make sure you’re protected every step of the way.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Stunt Driving Lawyer in Ottawa: Professional Legal Assistance for Stunt Driving Cases
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.23.1" custom_margin="0px||||false|false" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||32px||false|false" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]At Armoured Suits, we fully understand the serious penalties associated with stunt driving offences, which can include significant fines or license suspension. Our dedicated professional team is committed to protecting your rights and helping you effectively contest your traffic ticket. The legal process can be intricate and intimidating, but with our assistance, you can gain a clearer understanding of the charges against you and explore every possible defense strategy.
We work tirelessly to dispute evidence such as radar readings and witness statements, with the goal of having your stunt driving charge reduced or completely dismissed. Our aim is not only to represent you in court but also to educate you about the legal process, empowering you to make informed decisions at each stage.
Understanding stunt driving charges in Ottawa
Stunt driving charges in Ottawa are serious allegations that fall under the Highway Traffic Act. These charges can arise from various actions, such as excessive speed over the posted limit, engaging in dangerous driving maneuvers, or participating in street racing. Understanding the specific nature of your charge is crucial, as it influences the defense strategy we will employ. Our team at Armoured Suits is well-versed in the nuances of the Highway Traffic Act and leverages this knowledge to dissect the charges and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Immediate consequences of a stunt driving ticket
The immediate consequences of a stunt driving ticket can be daunting. These include a 30-day license suspension and a 14-day vehicle impoundment, which can severely disrupt your daily life and mobility. Additionally, fines can range from $2,000 to $10,000, placing a significant financial burden on you. At Armoured Suits, we understand the urgency of addressing these immediate impacts. Our legal professionals work swiftly to challenge the ticket and seek temporary relief measures, such as appealing the motor vehicle impoundment, to minimize disruptions to your life.
Long-term impacts of a stunt driving conviction
A stunt driving conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, particularly concerning your driving record and car insurance premiums. Insurance providers may classify you as a high-risk driver, leading to increased premiums or even policy cancellations. Furthermore, a conviction can remain on your driving record for years, affecting your driving privileges and future opportunities. At Armoured Suits, we focus on mitigating these long-term impacts by exploring every avenue to reduce charges and negotiate with insurance companies to prevent drastic premium hikes.
Role of a stunt driving lawyer Ottawa
The role of a stunt driving lawyer is multifaceted, encompassing everything from legal representation to strategic defense planning. At Armoured Suits, our lawyers serve as your advocates, guiding you through the legal process and ensuring your rights are upheld. We meticulously analyze evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present compelling arguments in court to challenge the prosecution's case.
Our commitment extends beyond the courtroom, as we also provide advice on maintaining a clean driving record post case and offer support in dealing with insurance providers to manage any financial repercussions.
Steps to take when charged with stunt driving
When faced with a stunt driving charge, it's crucial to act quickly and strategically to safeguard your driving record and reduce potential repercussions. First, stay calm and follow the police officer's directions during the traffic stop. Refrain from making any statements that might be used against you later. Gather as much information as possible, including details about the incident, witness contact information, and any pertinent documentation.
Immediately reach out to one of our experienced stunt driving lawyers in Ottawa to discuss your case and evaluate your options. Your lawyer will assist you in understanding the charges, potential penalties, and crafting a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
What to expect during court appearances
Court appearances for stunt driving charges can be intimidating, but understanding what to expect can help alleviate some anxiety. Initially, you will attend a first appearance where the charges are formally read, and you can enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, a trial date will be set. During the trial, both the prosecution and defense will present evidence and arguments.
Your lawyer will challenge the prosecution's case, cross-examine witnesses, and present any evidence supporting your defense. The judge will then make a decision based on the evidence presented. It's crucial to have experienced legal representation to navigate these proceedings effectively.
Potential outcomes of stunt driving cases
The outcomes of stunt driving cases can differ significantly based on the incident's specifics, the evidence presented, and the defense strategy employed. Potential results include the dismissal of charges, a reduction to a lesser offense, or a conviction.
If found guilty, penalties may range from fines and license suspensions to increased insurance premiums, and in severe instances, even jail time. Our objective is to secure the most favorable outcome for you, whether that involves negotiating a plea deal for reduced stunt driving penalties or striving for a complete dismissal of charges.
How stunt driving charges affect car insurance rates
Stunt driving charges can dramatically affect your car insurance premiums. Insurers often see these charges as indicators of risky driving behavior, leading to increased rates. A conviction might cause your premiums to double or even triple, and in some instances, your policy could be canceled entirely. These elevated costs can last for several years, impacting your financial stability.
At Armoured Suits, our skilled legal team is committed to lessening these effects by working tirelessly to reduce charges or have them dismissed. We also offer advice on effectively communicating with insurance companies to negotiate more favorable terms. By proactively addressing these charges, we aim to safeguard not only your driving record but also your financial well being.
Summary
At Armoured Suits, we are committed to providing top notch legal representation for those facing stunt driving charges in Ottawa. We take a proactive approach to each case, working tirelessly to protect your driving record and minimize the impact on your insurance premiums and overall driving future. By employing strategic defense tactics, we aim to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients, whether that means reduced penalties, dismissed charges, or a favorable plea deal.
By opting for our services, you gain the support of a committed team focused on contesting your traffic ticket and securing the best possible outcome for your situation. Contact us today to take the first step in safeguarding your rights and driving privileges.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" admin_label="faq" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"]Frequently asked questions
What should I do immediately after receiving a stunt driving ticket?
Upon receiving a stunt driving ticket, it is essential to stay composed and adhere to the police officer's instructions. Refrain from making any statements that could be detrimental later on. Collect as much information as you can, such as details of the incident, contact information of any witnesses, and any pertinent documents. Promptly reach out to one of our experienced stunt driving lawyers in Ottawa to discuss your case and consider your legal options.
What are the potential consequences of a stunt driving conviction?
A stunt driving conviction can have severe consequences, including hefty fines, license suspension, increased insurance premiums, and in some cases, even jail time. These penalties can significantly impact your driving privileges and financial stability. A conviction may also remain on your driving record for years, affecting your future opportunities.
At Armoured Suits, we focus on mitigating these impacts by exploring every avenue to reduce charges and negotiate with insurance companies to prevent drastic premium hikes.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="32px||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]If you find yourself entangled in the legal complexities of criminal or regulatory offences, our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of the process, providing the support and representation you need to navigate the legal waters successfully.
Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Armoured Suits’ Joshua Clarke Secures Major Victory in High-Profile Firefighter Trial
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="19px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="3px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits' Joshua Clarke recently played a pivotal role in defending Captain Greg Wright, a firefighter facing serious allegations stemming from a workplace dispute. Despite intense public scrutiny and complex legal challenges, Clarke successfully argued Wright’s case and secured a not-guilty verdict.
The trial, which garnered significant media attention, involved a detailed examination of the events leading up to the incident, as well as expert testimony from witnesses. Clarke’s strategic approach and deep understanding of the law were instrumental in proving Wright’s innocence and protecting his reputation.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_button button_url="https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/former-ottawa-firefighter-captain-exonerated-at-trial-in-dispute-with-rookie-non-binary-firefighter" url_new_window="on" button_text="Read the full story in the Ottawa Citizen" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_size="16px" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_button button_url="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/einagel-wright-ottawa-firefighter-charge-trial-decision-1.7325727" url_new_window="on" button_text="Read CBC Ottawa article" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_size="16px" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Learn more about how Armoured Suits can provide exceptional legal representation for your case.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Frequently Asked Questions About Impaired Driving
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offence in Canada. Understanding the legal implications, consequences, and options available to you if charged can be crucial. This article addresses some of the most frequently asked questions regarding impaired driving.
1. What constitutes impaired driving?
Impaired driving includes operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, or 0.08%. However, you can still be charged with impaired driving even if your BAC is below 0.08% if you exhibit signs of impairment.
For cannabis, there are two prohibited levels for THC, the primary psychoactive component of cannabis: a level between 2 nanograms (ng) and 5 ng of THC per ml of blood is a less serious offence. Levels of 5 ng of THC or more per ml of blood constitutes a more serious violation.
2. What are the penalties for impaired driving?
If found guilty, the penalties for impaired driving can be severe and vary depending on the circumstances:
First Offence: Minimum $1,000 fine, criminal record, mandatory 12 month licence suspension. In rare cases, jail time is a sentencing option.
Second Offence: Mandatory minimum 30-day jail sentence and a longer licence suspension.
Third and Subsequent Offences: Minimum 120-day jail sentence, extended licence suspension, and possibly a lifetime driving ban.
In addition to these penalties, you may also face additional fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
3. What happens if I refuse to take a breathalyser test?
Refusing to take a breathalyser test when requested by a police officer is a serious offence. Refusal can lead to the same penalties as an impaired driving charge, including fines, licence suspension, and jail time. Also, unwillingness to provide a breath sample will result in an automatic licence suspension of 90 days under the Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension (ADLS) program.
4. Can I challenge an impaired driving charge?
Yes, you can challenge an impaired driving charge in court. There are several defences that may be available, such as challenging the accuracy of the breathalyser test, questioning the legality of the traffic stop, or disputing the evidence of impairment. It's crucial to consult with an experienced, Armoured Suits criminal defence lawyer who can evaluate your case and advise on the best course of action.
5. What is the Ignition Interlock Program?
The Ignition Interlock Program is a mandatory requirement for some individuals convicted of impaired driving. The program requires the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, which prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. The program is designed to eliminate repeat offences and ensure that drivers are sober when operating a vehicle.
6. How long will an impaired driving conviction stay on my record?
An impaired driving conviction will remain on your driving record for at least 10 years. This can have long-term consequences, such as increased insurance premiums and potential difficulties in obtaining certain jobs. In some cases, a conviction can also result in a criminal record, which can have additional implications for travel and employment.
7. What are the immediate consequences of an impaired driving charge?
If charged with impaired driving, you will face immediate consequences, including:
Automatic Licence Suspension: Your driver’s licence will be automatically suspended for 90 days.
Vehicle Impoundment: Your vehicle may be impounded for 7 days.
Court Appearance: You will be required to appear in court to answer the charges against you.
These immediate consequences are in addition to any penalties that may be imposed if you are convicted of the offence.
8. Can I get my licence reinstated after an impaired driving conviction?
Yes, you can get your licence reinstated after an impaired driving conviction, but there are several steps you must follow. These may include completing the mandatory suspension period, paying all fines and fees, attending an alcohol education or treatment program, and installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Once these requirements are met, you can apply for reinstatement of your licence.
9. How does impaired driving affect my insurance?
An impaired driving conviction can have a significant impact on your auto insurance. After a conviction, you will likely be classified as a high-risk driver, which can result in substantial increases in your insurance premiums. In some cases, your insurance provider may refuse to renew your policy, forcing you to seek coverage from high-risk insurance providers at a much higher cost.
10. What should I do if I'm charged with impaired driving?
If you're charged with impaired driving, it's important to act quickly:
Contact a Lawyer: Seek legal advice from an experienced criminal defence lawyer who specialises in impaired driving cases.
Understand Your Rights: Be aware of your rights during the legal process, including the right to challenge the evidence against you.
Prepare for Court: Gather all relevant information and evidence to build your defence with the help of your lawyer.
Impaired driving is a serious offence with significant legal, financial, and personal consequences. If you or someone you know is facing an impaired driving charge, understanding your rights and the legal process is crucial. Consulting with an Armoured Suits lawyer and making informed decisions can help mitigate the impact of the charges and navigate the legal system more effectively.

### What To Expect During A Sexual Assault Investigation
Being named in a reported sexual assault can be a life-disrupting event. A sexual assault charge even more so. Your reputation, your job, even your freedom may be on the line. If you feel confused at this worrying time, that's understandable. Here are some things to be aware of, and events you can expect to occur in the short term.
 
A Report Is Not A Sexual Assault Charge
 
A report is not a sexual assault charge. This is the most important thing to keep in mind. You may have been named in a report, but a report does not automatically lead to a charge. In Ottawa, about 30% of reported sexual assaults lead to a charge. 
 
Investigation
 
After a report, the police will start an investigation into the allegations. Remember, the police are investigating the accusation, not the person who made the report (the complainant). The police will interview the complainant and others who may corroborate their account. There may be weeks of delay (or longer). 
 
If they feel the claim has merit, police will ask for your side. The police could interview you, potentially many times. It is vital to understand how to handle the interview. It could be the most important decision of your life.
 
The police will use the information gathered in court if there is a charge. Make sure you have spoken to a lawyer before the police interview.
 
Laying A Sexual Assault Charge
 
After the investigation, the police will determine whether to lay charges or not. If they decide to lay charges, they will arrest you awaiting a bail hearing. At the hearing, a judge will decide whether you will keep your freedom until the trial is over, if you can make bail. 
 
The judge will likely grant you bail, though with some stipulations. However, engaging a lawyer early will help you prove your innocence later on. 
 
Protect Yourself
 
Think you might be charged with sexual assault? Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation with no obligation to hire. We can explain the process after a charge and how you should handle it. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### Ottawa firefighter trial: Defence says complainant lied on stand
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="19px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="3px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.25.2" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]A judge-alone trial is underway for an Ottawa firefighter accused of assaulting a non-binary colleague. Witness testimony contradicts the alleged victim's account, raising questions about what truly happened. Meanwhile, the Crown argues the fire department itself fostered a violent environment. The judge expects to reach a decision on the case by the end of summer.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://ottawacitizen.com/news/non-binary-firefighter-told-bald-faced-lies-while-under-oath-defence" button_text="Read the full story in the Ottawa Citizen" _builder_version="4.25.2" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### 2 Charges Dropped in Firefighter Assault Trial
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.3" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]We're relieved, but not out of the woods yet."
Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyer, Joshua Clarke, speaks to CBC News about the firefighter assault trial. The article highlights the dismissal of a negligence charge against Captain Greg Wright and details the ongoing legal proceedings.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/2-charges-dropped-in-firefighter-assault-trial-1.7206167" url_new_window="on" button_text="READ THE FULL STORY" _builder_version="4.24.3" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size="15px" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
Excerpt: Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyer, Joshua Clarke, speaks to CBC News about the firefighter assault trial. The article highlights the dismissal of a negligence charge against Captain Greg Wright and details the ongoing legal proceedings.

### Navigating Legal Waters: Understanding The Difference Between Criminal And Regulatory Offences In Canada
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.23.1" custom_margin="0px||||false|false" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||32px||false|false" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]For individuals facing legal challenges, staying well-informed about the legal landscape is crucial, especially when it comes to offences. Two broad categories that often cause confusion are criminal offences and regulatory offences. While both involve legal consequences, they differ significantly in terms of nature, proceedings, and consequences. 
In this comprehensive guide, we aim to demystify the distinction between criminal and regulatory offences in Canada, providing clarity for those navigating the intricate legal waters.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Nature of Offence:
Criminal Offences:
Criminal offences are acts deemed harmful to society, and they are prosecuted by the Crown. These offences are typically more serious and involve a higher degree of moral culpability. Examples include theft, assault, or drug trafficking. The purpose of criminal law is to punish the offender and protect society from individuals who pose a threat.
Regulatory Offences:
Regulatory offences, on the other hand, are non-criminal acts that contravene specific statutes or regulations set by government agencies. These offences are often considered less severe and are more concerned with ensuring compliance with rules and regulations. Regulatory law aims to maintain order in specific industries or sectors, such as environmental protection, workplace safety, or professional conduct.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Legal Proceedings:
Criminal Offences:
Criminal proceedings are initiated by the state against an individual accused of committing a criminal offence. The prosecution must prove the accused's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In criminal cases, the accused has the right to a trial by judge and jury, and the penalty may include fines, probation, imprisonment, or a combination of these.
Regulatory Offences:
Regulatory proceedings are typically initiated by government agencies responsible for overseeing specific industries or activities. The burden of proof in regulatory cases is usually lower than in criminal cases, requiring a balance of probabilities rather than proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Regulatory bodies may impose fines, administrative penalties, or other non-criminal sanctions.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Example" _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Example of Regulatory Offence
Liquor Licence Act – OntarioThose who sell alcohol in Ontario are required to comply with the Liquor Licence Act and failure to do so is an offence.
Section 61 of Ontario’s Liquor Licence Act says failure to follow the Act is an offence. It also explicitly warns directors and officers of corporations that their involvement might also be an offence if they “caused, authorized, permitted, or participated in an offence.”
The penalties can be crushing to a business or its owner. Fines upwards of $250,000 for a corporation and $100,000 for an individual is the norm. For certain other misdeeds (such as selling to a minor) double those fines.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Mens Rea" _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Intent and Mens Rea:
Criminal Offences:
Criminal offences often require proof of a guilty mind, known as mens rea. This means that the accused must have intended to commit the illegal act or be reckless about the consequences. The mental element is a crucial aspect of criminal law and distinguishes it from regulatory offences.
Regulatory Offences:
Regulatory offences are often considered strict liability offences, meaning that the prosecution does not need to prove the accused's intent or mental state. In regulatory matters, the focus is on the prohibited act itself, rather than the accused's state of mind. This makes it easier for regulatory bodies to establish guilt.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Penalties" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalties and Consequences:
Criminal Offences:
The penalties for criminal offences can be severe and may include imprisonment, fines, probation, or a combination of these. Criminal convictions can have long-lasting consequences, affecting employment opportunities, travel, and personal relationships. A criminal record can also result in the loss of certain privileges, such as the right to own firearms.
Regulatory Offences:
Penalties for regulatory offences are typically administrative in nature and may include fines, suspension of licences, or other non-criminal sanctions. While the consequences of regulatory offences are serious, they generally do not carry the same stigma or long-term impact as criminal convictions.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Prosecution" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Prosecution and Legal Representation:
Criminal Offences:
Criminal prosecutions are handled by Crown attorneys representing the government. In criminal cases, the accused has the right to legal representation, and the cost of legal defence is often incurred by the accused or, if eligible, through legal aid.
Regulatory Offences:
Regulatory proceedings are usually initiated by government agencies or regulatory bodies. In regulatory matters, legal representation is advisable, but the accused may bear the responsibility of hiring legal counsel to navigate the complexities of the regulatory process.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="32px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Understanding the fundamental differences between criminal and regulatory offences is essential for citizens facing legal challenges. Whether you are dealing with a criminal charge that requires a robust defence or a regulatory matter necessitating compliance, being well-informed about the nuances of these offences is crucial. Legal representation by Armoured Suits is key in both scenarios, ensuring that your rights are protected and your case is navigated with expertise and precision.
If you find yourself entangled in the legal complexities of criminal or regulatory offences, our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of the process, providing the support and representation you need to navigate the legal waters successfully.
Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
Excerpt: For individuals facing legal challenges, staying well-informed about the legal landscape is crucial, especially when it comes to offences. Two broad categories that often cause confusion are criminal offences and regulatory offences. While both involve legal consequences, they differ significantly in terms of nature, proceedings, and consequences.

n this comprehensive guide, we aim to demystify the distinction between criminal and regulatory offences in Canada, providing clarity for those navigating the intricate legal waters.

### Firefighter fired, captain suspended after city investigation into alleged hate crime
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]The City of Ottawa continued a workplace harassment investigation into an alleged attack on the fire department’s first openly non-binary firefighter, even with active criminal charges laid in the case.
On Thursday, March 23, 2023 lawyers representing the defendants confirmed that an Ottawa firefighter accused of attacking the department's first openly non-binary firefighter has been terminated from his job. In addition, Captain Greg Wright received a three-day suspension without pay for failing to report the incident.
Joshua Clarke, who is representing Wright in his criminal case, said his client "is not accepting of this particular outcome" and has asked his union, the Ottawa Professional Fire Fighters Association, to grieve the suspension.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-firefighters-investigation-discipline-1.6787293" button_text="READ THE CBC NEWS STORY" _builder_version="4.19.2" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Choking case at Ottawa Fire Station 47
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="25px||26px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="-25px|auto||auto||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.19.2" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Captain Gregory Wright, 56, has been charged by Ottawa Police for failing to give medical assistance to a fellow firefighter. The charge includes negligence causing bodily harm. 
Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyer, Joshua Clarke, spoke to the Ottawa Citizen. He can't understand why police would charge the veteran firefighter.
“While we respect the criminal process, we cannot fathom why he has been charged with this offence, having done nothing wrong. It is our intent to challenge the Crown’s case if necessary. We are optimistic this can be resolved relatively quickly,” Clarke said.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/choking-case-at-ottawa-fire-station-47-our-client-is-still-traumatized-by-the-assault" button_text="READ THE OTTAWA CITIZEN ARTICLE" _builder_version="4.19.2" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### City quietly resumed investigation into alleged hate crime, firefighters deny wrongdoing
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="25px||26px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="-25px|auto||auto||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.19.2" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]The City of Ottawa is continuing a workplace harassment investigation into an alleged attack on the fire department's first openly non-binary firefighter, even while there are active criminal charges laid in the case.
Capt. Greg Wright, 59, is charged with criminal negligence causing bodily harm for failing to provide the rookie with "medical attention." Sources within the fire department say Wright was specifically chosen to be the supervisor of the department's first openly non-binary member.
 
"While we respect the criminal process, we cannot fathom why he has been charged with this offence, having done nothing wrong," his lawyer Joshua Clarke said. "It is our intent to challenge the Crown's case if necessary."
 
Clarke said he and his client "are optimistic this can be resolved relatively quickly."
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-firefighters-investigation-1.6731609" button_text="READ THE FULL CBC NEWS ARTICLE" _builder_version="4.19.2" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Lawyer for Ottawa fire captain 'cannot fathom' why client charged with failing to give medical assistance
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="25px||26px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="-25px|auto||auto||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Joshua Clark, Criminal Defence Lawyer, says he can't understand why Ottawa police would charge Captain Gregory Wright, a veteran firefighter.
“While we respect the criminal process, we cannot fathom why he has been charged with this offence, having done nothing wrong. It is our intent to challenge the Crown’s case if necessary. We are optimistic this can be resolved relatively quickly,” Clarke told the Ottawa Citizen.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/lawyer-for-ottawa-fire-captain-cannot-fathom-why-client-charged-with-failing-to-give-medical-assistance" button_text="READ THE FULL ARTICLE IN THE OTTAWA CITIZEN" _builder_version="4.19.2" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#000000" button_border_color="#E02B20" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### The Right To Remain Silent
Miranda rights come from a 1966 American Supreme Court case called “Miranda v. Arizona”. Because we’re inundated with American TV and movies, most Canadians are familiar with Miranda rights, which states: “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.”
Our legal system is different from the one in the United States and we do not have Miranda rights in Canada, but we have something very similar under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Innocent Until Proven Guilty
In Canada, the right to remain silent comes from the presumption that all individuals are innocent until proven guilty. This means that a person does not have to speak to a police officer or other person in authority, however, if a person does choose to speak to a police officer, they must tell the truth. The consequences of lying to the police could mean extra charges, including; obstructing a police officer, public mischief and obstructing justice.
The Right To Remain Silent Is Guaranteed 
The right to remain silent is guaranteed by section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms that says: “Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice.“
Section 10 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms mentions that upon arrest or detention, everyone has the right:
(a) to be informed promptly of the reasons therefor;
(b) to retain and instruct counsel without delay and to be informed of that right; and
(c) to have the validity of the detention determined by way of habeas corpus and to be released if the detention is not lawful.
 
The Supreme Court has described the nature of habeas corpus as:
“...a vehicle for reviewing the justification for a person’s imprisonment.”
Your Right To Speak To A Lawyer. 
This is part of section 11(b) of the Charter. “You have the right to retain and instruct counsel in private without delay.” This means that before the police proceed with your investigation, you may call any lawyer you wish or get free legal advice from Duty Counsel immediately.
 
You Do NOT Have The Right To Have A Lawyer Present During Questioning
One of the big differences between Miranda rights and Charter rights is that in Canada (unless you are under 18 years old), you do NOT have a right to have a lawyer with you in the room while you are being interviewed by the police. The Supreme Court supported this in R. v. Sinclair, 2010 SCC 35 mentioning that there is a right for a suspect to consult a lawyer before questioning and to be informed of that right. But the reason for consultation is to give the suspect legal advice on whether to cooperate with authorities. There is no requirement that says a lawyer needs to be present for questioning.
 
The Fifth Amendment vs Section 13
In the United States, the Fifth Amendment permits a witness to refuse to answer any question that may incriminate them (a.k.a.pleading the fifth). This is not how the law works in Canada. In Canada, Section 13 is effectively a bargaining tool that permits the Crown to force a witness to give evidence that might be incriminating, but in exchange for full and frank evidence, the Crown cannot use it against that witness in other proceedings. However, if a suspect lies on the stand, the deal is off and the Crown is permitted to pursue them for those lies.
There are two important factors that must exist to “trigger” section 13:
 	Compelled Evidence: Section 13 will only protect witnesses if they are being compelled to give testimony, or if they are compellable witnesses. However, if a non-compellable witness testifies voluntarily, their evidence can be used against them at a later date.
 	Incriminating Evidence: Section 13 only applies to incriminating evidence, meaning evidence that may lead a judge or jury to believe that a person is guilty of the act they are accused of. 
 
Silence Does Not Mean Guilt
Even though the right to remain silent applies any time an individual interacts with police or a person in authority, there is no requirement that the police advise a person of the right to silence. Invoking your right to be silent does not mean you’re guilty. If you properly assert your right to remain silent, it cannot be used against you in court, and the jury would be given specific instructions not to consider your silence as an admission of guilt.
If you have been charged with any offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, we also offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all of your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting
 
Excerpt: Our legal system is different from the one in the United States and we do not have Miranda rights in Canada, but we have something very similar under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

### When A Criminal Act Becomes Negligent
Criminal negligence is the failure on the part of a person with a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent certain negative outcomes from occurring. 
Although it is broadly-defined with several negligence-based criminal offences detailed in the Criminal Code, most charges we see of criminal negligence are related to the operation of a motor vehicle. However, certainly not exclusively.
There are two main forms of criminal negligence: causing bodily harm and causing death.
Section 219:
(1) Everyone is criminally negligent who;
(a) in doing anything, or
(b) in omitting to do anything that it is his duty to do, shows wanton or reckless disregard for the lives or safety of other persons.
(2) Definition of duty;
For the purposes of this section, duty means a duty imposed by law.
canlii.org
What Is Criminal Negligence Causing Death?
Every person who by criminal negligence causes death to another person is guilty of an indictable offence. Offences under s. 220 are straight indictable, meaning they are generally the most serious crimes, such as Murder, Robbery, Aggravated Assault, etc. and carry with them the most serious punishments.
Section 220 of the Criminal Code of Canada states:
 	(a) where a firearm is used in the commission of the offence, to imprisonment for life and to a minimum punishment of imprisonment for a term of four years; and
 	(b) in any other case, to imprisonment for life.
 
What Is Criminal Negligence Causing Bodily Harm?
Under s. 221 of the criminal code, every person who by criminal negligence causes bodily harm to another person is guilty of;
(a) an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term of not more than 10 years.
(b) an offence punishable on summary conviction.
A summary offence, is an offence which is resolved without a jury or indictment. It is generally a “less serious” offence versus an indictable offence. 
justice.gc.ca
What Is The Difference Between Criminal Negligence And Criminal Recklessness?
In both cases, what is being analyzed is the extent of mental awareness an accused had at the relevant time.
Criminal negligence occurs when the defendant should have been aware of the risk. Negligence means that the accused failed to perceive the risks of his actions, resulting in a gross deviation from the standard of care that an ordinary person would exercise. Momentary inattention will not suffice to establish criminal negligence.
Recklessness
There are two elements to recklessness: There must be (1) an awareness of a risk or danger and (2) a choice to persist in the conduct despite awareness of the risk.
The difference between the two
The difference between negligence and recklessness is the extent of the awareness of the danger. Negligence can be established with a reduced level of awareness, while establishing recklessness requires evidence to support the perception, and disregard of the risk.
If you have been charged with any offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, we also offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all of your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting
 
Excerpt: Criminal negligence is the failure on the part of a person with a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent certain negative outcomes from occurring. 

There are two main forms of criminal negligence: causing bodily harm and causing death.

### Charged With A Crime? What Next?
Let’s imagine you’ve been charged with an indictable offence under the criminal code of Canada. 
All offences under the Criminal Code of Canada are defined as either summary, indictable, or hybrid offences. Summary offences are generally less serious both in terms of crime and penalty. Indictable offences cover more serious crimes and carry more severe consequences.
A hybrid offence is an offence where the prosecutor can choose, based on factors such as the seriousness of the accused's actions and the harm caused, to proceed with the offence as either a summary conviction offence or as an indictable offence.
justice.gc.ca
Preliminary Hearing
After someone has been charged with a crime, a preliminary hearing is held by the Court to decide whether there is enough evidence to send the case to trial. Preliminary hearings are only held for indictable offences. At the preliminary hearing, the prosecutor presents the most important parts of the evidence against the accused. At this stage, witnesses may be called to give testimony against the defendant. Typically no defence is offered at this stage, but it is an opportunity for the defence to evaluate the case and formulate a strategy.
If there is not enough evidence to convince a judge or jury of guilt, you will be discharged and the case will be dismissed. However, if the prosecutor presents enough credible evidence, and if you plead not guilty, the Court sets a trial date.
The Trial
Trial is where the prosecutor and the defence lawyer present evidence and call upon witnesses to support their case. If you’ve made it to the trial stage as a guest inside the justice system, this is when you know, you effed up. But, depending on the evidence against you and the skill of your defense lawyer, hope may not be completely lost. Persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until they plead guilty or they are proven guilty in court, and the burden of proof is on the prosecutor. 
At trial, the prosecutor goes first and will try to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime that you were charged with. If the prosecution's witnesses have already testified at the preliminary hearing, they are still required to testify at the trial. But this time, the defence attorney will have the opportunity to cross-examine the witness about what they said at trial and during the preliminary inquiry.
As an accused person, you have the right to remain silent and do not have to give evidence at trial. But remember, if you decide to give evidence, you’ll likely be cross-examined by the prosecutor and have to answer their questions.
Unfit to Stand Trial
"Unfit to Stand Trial" is a term that refers to the state of mind of the accused at the time of trial. In determining whether or not an accused persons is unfit to stand trial, the Court will consider if the accused person is able to:
 	understand the purpose of the trial;
 	understand the potential consequences of the trial; or
 	meaningfully instruct their lawyer. 
justice.gc.ca
What Does A Prosecutor Do?
To prosecute means to lay a charge in a criminal matter and pursue legal proceedings against the accused.  As agents of the Attorney General, prosecutors exercise considerable prosecutorial discretion. Their role is quasi-judicial and as such, they have a duty to be objective and dispassionate. Prosecutors present all available, relevant, and admissible evidence necessary to enable the court to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused. They prepare for Court by researching the law,  reviewing evidence & exhibits, and interviewing witnesses.
What Does A Defence Lawyer Do?
A defence lawyer represents a person charged with a criminal offence. It is the defence lawyer's job to make sure the rights of the accused are protected throughout the criminal process. At trial, a defence lawyer:
 	Questions the evidence introduced by the prosecution.
 	Examines the relevance of that evidence.
 	Explores all possible interpretations.
The Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC) is a national, independent and accountable prosecuting authority whose main objective is to prosecute federal offences and provides legal advice and assistance to law enforcement.
ppsc-sppc.gc.ca
What does a Judge do?
The judge is a public official appointed to decide cases in a court of law. They are the person in charge of the Court, and are impartial decision-makers in the pursuit of justice. Judges listen to what is presented by both the prosecuting and defence attorneys in Court and, unless there is a jury to make this decision, they decide whether there is proof beyond a reasonable doubt, in criminal cases, that the suspect is guilty. In our adversarial system of justice, legal cases are contested between two opposing sides. This means that evidence and arguments will be fully and forcefully presented. However, the judge remains above the fray to provide an independent and impartial assessment of the facts, and interpret how the law applies to the facts.
 
What does a Jury Do?
If you are  convicted of a crime and facing five years or more in prison, you have the right, under the Charter, to request a jury trial. Usually made up of 12 members of the public,  the jurors become the “triers of fact” and assess the presented evidence while the judge takes on the role of legal advisor, clarifying and explaining the law to the jurors. After all evidence has been presented, and both prosecution and defence have argued their cases, the jurors retire to deliberate on a verdict. In criminal cases the jury’s verdict of “Guilty” or “Not Guilty” must be unanimous. If the defendant is convicted of a crime, the judge passes the sentence, imposing a penalty that, depending on the severity of the offence, can range from a fine to a prison term.
Make sure you are represented by Armoured Suits.

### The Reid Technique
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]You’ve seen it in movies, on television, and true-crime videos on YouTube. In real-life, the Reid Technique is very effective at producing confessions. First developed in the 1940s by John E. Reid, it has become the most widely used approach to interrogation in the world.
The Reid website states that an interrogation should only occur when the investigator is reasonably certain of the suspect's involvement in the issue under investigation.
WHY IS IT SO EFFECTIVE?
The Reid Technique uses three powerful techniques that are designed to make the suspect believe that confessing to the crime is in their best interest.
1 - Isolation: The suspect is isolated in a windowless interrogation room with the aim of making them feel vulnerable and alone. 
2 - Maximization: The officer begins by stating that the suspect is guilty beyond doubt. They will then present a theory of the crime (sometimes with evidentiary support, other times completely fabricated) that includes details that the suspect can regurgitate to the officer. Through the course of the interview, the officer is firmly asserting the suspect's guilt and ignoring any claims of innocence. This is the "bad cop" portion of the interview. 
3- Minimization: After the officer has made it clear that any claims of innocence will not be believed or accepted, the "good cop" portion of the interview begins. The officer pivots and adopts an understanding tone, and understates the crime in order to convince the suspect to admit wrongdoing. The officer offers absolution, and a release from the suspect's guilt and shame. If the suspect confesses, the officers hint at lesser charges, or a chance to go home, as an alternative to risking indefinite incarceration.
If you are questioned at a police station, there is a good chance you will be subjected to the Reid technique. The best way to avoid saying anything that may incriminate you is to keep your mouth shut, and ask for a lawyer. 
 
NINE STEPS TO THE TRUTH
There are nine steps to the Reid interrogation technique:
	Positive Confrontation. 
The investigator informs the suspect that the evidence clearly demonstrates the person's guilt.
	Theme Development. 
In a sympathetic manner, the investigator presents a moral justification, or “theme”, for the offense, such as attributing the act of committing the crime to outside circumstances, or placing the moral blame on someone else. 
	Dealing With Denials
Typically, at this stage, the suspect will ask for permission to interject with claims of innocence. The investigator discourages the suspect from doing so, and does not permit any denials of guilt. Reid maintains that innocent people are less likely to ask for permission to speak, and more likely to promptly and unequivocally deny the accusation, stating “it is very rare for an innocent suspect to move past this denial state.”
	Overcoming Objections
When denials do not succeed, the guilty party is likely to object to the accusation with motivated reasoning to reinforce their claim of innocence, like “I would never do that because I love my ex. We are friends”. At this stage, the investigator feigns consideration of the suspect's argument, but weaves their denial into the fabric of the ever evolving theme. 
	Getting And Keeping The Suspect's Attention
The investigator must acquire the suspect's attention, and keep it, so that the focus of the interrogation remains on the theme. A clever way to achieve this, is for the investigator to close the physical distance between them and the suspect. According to Reid, the investigator should “channel the theme down to the probable alternative components.”
	Handling The Suspect's Passive Mood 
If the suspect becomes quiet and listens, the investigator shifts the theme of the discussion towards offering alternatives. Pressure is applied keeping an understanding and sympathetic tone, and if the suspect begins to break down emotionally, guilt is often interfered at this stage. 
	Presenting An Alternative Question. 
The investigator now presents two choices, both developed as a logical extension of the theme, with one of the alternatives offering a more palatable justification for the crime.  Then investigators may ask, “Did you plan this, or did it happen on the spur of the moment?”. The question is supported by the investigator with statements which encourage the suspect to choose the more reasonable alternative.
	Lead The Suspect To Unveil Details Of The Offence. 
When the suspect accepts one of the presented alternatives, thus confessing to the crime, the investigator will immediately acknowledge the admission, and begin developing corroborating information to establish the validity of the confession. Before asking more detailed questions, they will encourage the suspect to review the basic events and repeat the admission of guilt in front of witnesses.
	Convert The Oral Confession To A Recorded Confession. 
Once the subject decides to acknowledge their involvement in committing the crime, the goal is to develop the details of the offence. At this point in the interrogation, active persuasion stops and the investigator asks questions that encourage the subject to provide the specifics of the crime. The suspect then prepares a recorded statement and their admission or confession is documented (audio, video, or written).
OBTAIN THE TRUTH, NOT A CONFESSION
Throughout an interrogation, the investigator's goal is to learn the truth. On page 4 of the Reid training manual, and page 5 of Criminal Interrogation and Confessions, they state that the objective of an interrogation is to elicit the truth from a subject, not a confession. There are several possible outcomes to a successful interrogation:
	The subject is innocent.
	The subject did not commit the offence, but lied about some aspect of the investigation.
	The subject did not commit the offence, but knows who did.
	The subject is guilty.
No matter the crime, the core of the Reid Technique interrogation process is to use empathy, reasoning and logic to obtain the truth.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
Excerpt: You’ve seen it in movies, on television, and true-crime videos on YouTube. In real-life, the Reid Technique is very effective at producing confessions. First developed in the 1940s by John E. Reid, it has become the most widely used approach to interrogation in the world.  The Reid Technique uses three powerful techniques that are designed to make the suspect believe that confessing to the crime is in their best interest.

### Cannabis Edibles, Responsibility and the Law
When cannabis edibles are made to look like candy, the upswing in the number of cases where children accidentally consume the drug is no surprise. Imagine you’re a hungry kid looking for a snack, and you come across cookies, brownies or gummy candies. A young child may not be able to tell the difference between real candy and cannabis candy, and accidentally eat all three. 
A recent study found that there has been a higher number of children under twelve hospitalized due to severe reactions to cannabis exposure. The study also mentioned the main avenue of child exposure to cannabis edibles was improper storage.
The Cannabis Act
The Cannabis Act provides strict legal parameters regarding the production, distribution, sale and possession of cannabis across Canada. Their aim is to:
 	Keep cannabis out of the hands of youth.
 	Keep profits out of the pockets of criminals.
 	Protect public health and safety by allowing adults access to legal cannabis.
There are other measures in the Cannabis Act that make it difficult for youth to access the drug, including; age restrictions, and severely limiting the promotion or advertisement of cannabis, or cannabis related items.
Age restriction: No person may sell or provide cannabis to any person under the age of 18. 
There are 2 criminal offences related to providing cannabis to youth*:
 	Giving or selling cannabis to youth
 	Using a youth to commit a cannabis-related offence
*maximum penalties of 14 years in jail:
The Cannabis Act prohibits: 
 	The packaging or labelling cannabis in a way that makes it appealing to youth.
 	The selling of cannabis through self-service displays or vending machines.
 	The promoting of cannabis (except where young people could not see the promotion, ie: inside a cannabis store).
Penalties for violating these prohibitions include a fine of up to $5 million or 3 years in jail.
“It Happened So Quickly” 
Cannabis edibles can be very dangerous if they end up in the hands of young children. A Manitoba mother told CTV News in 2019 that her two-year-old started having seizures and had to be put on a ventilator after her five-year-old brother shared a cannabis-laced chocolate bar that he found in the kitchen. 
Kids are more vulnerable to cannabis poisoning because of their small size and lower weight. Not only can the psychoactive ingredients in THC have a stronger, more prolonged effect on them, ingestion of cannabis is the most common cause of cannabis poisoning in children. 
Cannabis FACT: An adult 19 years of age or older in Ontario can legally possess 150 grams of fresh cannabis or 30 grams of dried cannabis.
One gram of dried cannabis is equal to:
 	5 grams of fresh cannabis.
 	15 grams of edible product.
 	70 grams of liquid product.
 	0.25 grams of concentrates (solid or liquid).
1 cannabis plant seed.
Parents, Proper Cannabis Storage is up to You
It’s a given that parents who use cannabis will say it’s their responsibility to safely store their products, however, according to a national Ipsos survey commissioned by Parachute - a national charity dedicated to injury prevention, only one in four do so properly.
“Society and the law expect people to take reasonable precautions.” says Joshua Clarke,  Lawyer and Managing Director of Armoured Suits. “Every person has to think to themselves, ‘ I need to prevent my kids from consuming this’, and if you don't take those steps, you could be found guilty of a criminal offence.”
The Consequences of Criminal Negligence
If a child becomes ill after eating a cannabis infused product, depending on the nature of the case, there could be serious consequences. 
The Criminal Code, R.S.C. 1985, c. C-46, defines criminal negligence as follows:
219 (1) Every one is criminally negligent who
(a)   in doing anything, or
(b) in omitting to do anything that it is his duty to do,
shows wanton or reckless disregard for the lives or safety of other persons.
(2) For the purposes of this section, duty means a duty imposed by law.
This offence, when it causes the death of a person,  carries a maximum life sentence (with a minimum prison term of 4 years if the offence involves a firearm) under s 220 of the Criminal Code.
Anyone who causes bodily harm to another person by criminal negligence is guilty of an indictable offence, punishable by up-to 10 years in jail. If someone is killed by criminal negligence, then the maximum punishment is life imprisonment.
Safe storage tips for edibles and other cannabis products:
 	Keep cannabis products in their original, child-resistant packaging.
 	Make sure cannabis products are properly resealed and re-stored after use.
 	Store cannabis products where children can’t see or reach them.
 	Avoid using cannabis products in front of children. 
 
It is common sense that cannabis products should be out of sight and out of reach of children. However, statistics are indicating that cannabis and cannabis related products are within easy reach of kids as a direct result of parental oversight, or neglect. 
To avoid unnecessary trips to the hospital or jail, keep your stash in a child-resistant container, stored in a locked compartment, drawer, or placed in a high cupboard. Pun intended
If you have been charged with any cannabis offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, we also offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all of your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting
 

### Do You Have To Cooperate With Police?
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Intro" _builder_version="4.9.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]The short answer is: No.
In Canada, you have the right to remain silent. This right is constitutionally protected and enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Generally speaking, you do not have to assist in a criminal investigation, provide information, or cooperate with police in any way...but...there are a few exceptions, including:
If you are arrested, you have to tell the police your name, address, and date of birth.
The Motor Vehicle Safety Act requires that you provide information to the police in certain circumstances. For example; if you are the driver of a motor vehicle involved in an accident, you are required by law to complete a collision report.
If you are participating in a regulated activity, like a commercial truck driver, the laws and regulations that govern the activity may require you to provide certain information to the investigators.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="The Police Want To Meet" _builder_version="4.9.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]The Police Want To Meet
If the police want to meet with you, it’s possible that they are investigating you for having committed an offence. If that’s the case, they probably plan to arrest you and get a statement.
The police may say they want to set up a meeting to:
“Discuss an incident that we need your help with.”
“Give you a chance to tell us your side of the story.”
“Tell us what happened, or the worst version will be believed.”
 
If you are confused or unsure about how much information you are legally required to give the police, or whether you should cooperate with them, it is in your best interests to consult with a lawyer.
 
When you go to the police station voluntarily, you are not under arrest, but you should consider calling a lawyer for advice before meeting with police. The police may have already begun using techniques to gather information or evidence from you, and with an attorney present, it is doubtful you will be permitted to say anything that hurts you, and thus, helps their case against you.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Can The Police Lie To You?" _builder_version="4.9.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Can The Police Lie To You?
Yes, and they do it all the time. They are legally allowed to lie when they're investigating, and they are trained to be manipulative. One of the jobs of police is to get information out of people, and they are very good at it.
Here are some lies the police may tell you:
 	"If you don't answer my questions, I'll have no choice but to arrest you.”
 	“This is your only opportunity to tell your side of the story.”
 	"Everyone else cooperated and we let them go home. You're the only one left."
There is no such thing as “off the record” with police. Anything you admit to an officer, over the phone or in person, can be instantly recorded by the officer in his or her notebook, on audio or video capture, and used against you at a trial.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="What The Police Don't Want You To Know" _builder_version="4.9.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]What The Police Don't Want You To Know
You can refuse to talk to the police at any time, but that doesn't mean they will stop asking you questions. They can, and will, continue to speak to you, even if you’ve asked for a lawyer.
You don't need to worry about being treated harshly. The police will probably be nice and friendly with you, and make sure you’re comfortable. They might even fetch you some food if you’re hungry. They’ll chat with you, and laugh with you, and when it’s time, the police will ask you to “help them out” by answering a few questions.
It’s important to remember that police are trained in powerful interrogation techniques ranging from pre-interrogation strategies, like; building rapport, observing body language and speech patterns, to more coercive techniques, such as; victim-blaming and stifling denials.
3 Methods The Police May Use During Your Interview
The Reid method is a system of interviewing and interrogation used by police departments across the globe. According to the company's website, over 500,000 law enforcement and security professionals have attended the company's interview and interrogation training programs since 1974.
 
PEACE or, Preparation and Planning, Engage and Explain, Account, Closure and Evaluate is a less confrontational method used in the U.K.
 
The Kinesic Interview method involves analyzing a person's behavior to assess deception. This method has some similarities to the Reid Technique.
The likelihood that you say something that hurts your ability to defend yourself is very high. Even if you are innocent, there are still risks to speaking with the police. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Will You Look Guilty For Speaking To A Lawyer?" _builder_version="4.9.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Will You Look Guilty For Speaking To A Lawyer?
Many people subscribe to the misaligned belief that innocent people should not require legal representation, and they will wear the “perception of guilt” if they dare ask to speak to a lawyer. The truth is, innocent or not, everyone has the right to speak with an attorney before police questioning. Besides, the prosecutor can't argue that you are “probably guilty because you spoke with a lawyer.”
If the police are investigating whether you broke the law, a lawyer can explain the risks and benefits of speaking with them, and give you advice about how you should proceed. Remember, anything you say to the authorities can and will be used against you in court, and there's no way to predict what information the police might try to use, or how they'll use it. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Invite to Consult" _builder_version="4.9.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]If you have been invited to an interview with police and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, we offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all of your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
Excerpt: The short answer is: No.  In Canada, you have the right to remain silent. This right is constitutionally protected and enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Generally speaking, you do not have to assist in a criminal investigation, provide information, or cooperate with police in any way…but…there are a few exceptions, including...

### Mandatory Minimum Sentences
A mandatory minimum sentence (MMS) compels a judge, by law, to impose a sentence equal to the minimum term set for that crime, no matter what the circumstances of the offence
According to the Canadian Department of Justice, twenty nine offences in the Canadian Criminal Code carry a mandatory minimum sentence. There is currently zero discretion for judges to reduce the sentence for anyone convicted of an offence that bears a mandatory minimum sentence. That means if you’ve been convicted of a crime like second degree murder, high treason, or multiple impaired driving offences, the judge has no choice but to sentence you to a prison term
Criticism of Mandatory Minimum Sentences
MMS have resulted in longer and more complex trials. 
Mandatory minimum sentences have created a large increase in both court and individual costs, and a decrease in guilty pleas which has exacerbated the impact on victims, who are more often required to testify.
Mandatory minimum sentences are set by the government and too rigid. 
Judges cannot lower mandatory minimum sentences, removing the ability to tailor a sentence to the individual and offence, even for extenuating circumstances that would otherwise lessen the punishment. Critics of the system claim that not only are these laws cruel and ineffective, but they also target low-level offenders, minorities, and at-risk communities. 
Mandatory minimum sentences are imposed disproportionately upon minority groups.
In 2014, the British Columbia Civil Liberties Association (BCCLA) produced a report on the harms of mandatory minimums, citing factors as; the removal of a judge’s ability to consider individual and contributing factors during sentencing, or systemic factors such as the impacts of colonialism when sentencing Indigenous people, as noted in R v Gladue.
Cambridge University professor, Doris Provine, notes in  Too Many Black Men: The Sentencing Judge's Dilemma, that the US federal sentencing guidelines, established in 1984 to promote equity and transparency in sentencing, have ironically increased racial disparities - mostly because of MMS introduced in the ‘80s for selected drug offences. Between 1976 and 1989, white drug arrests grew by 70%, while black drug arrests grew by 450%. Those statistics haven't improved much over time. In California, African Americans make up only 7% of the state's population, but they constitute 43% of those sentenced under the Three Strikes law. This is despite evidence that minority communities are less likely to be drug abusers.
Changes To Mandatory Minimum Sentences In Canada
The existing Mandatory Minimum sentencing structure in Canada has focused on punishment through imprisonment, rather than delivering justice based on the nuances of each case. As such, it  has disproportionately affected Indigenous peoples, as well as Black and marginalized Canadians. 
To specifically address the systemic issues related to Canadian sentencing policies, on February 18, 2021, the Honourable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, introduced proposed amendments to the Criminal Code and to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. 
Proposed changes to mandatory minimum sentences in Bill C-22
 	MMS would be repealed for 14 offences in the Criminal Code.
 	All six Controlled Drugs and Substances Act MMS would be repealed. 
 A number of offences will still be eligible for a mandatory minimum sentence, including:
 	murder
 	high treason
 	sexual offences (including child sexual offences)
 	impaired driving offences
 	some firearm offences, including firearms offences connected to a criminal organization. 
There is growing evidence that mandatory minimum sentences can result in overly harsh penalties, and that the longer incarceration time can increase recidivism, rather than decrease it. The implications held by the changes proposed to Bill C-22 are that employment opportunities, accessible drug treatments, and alternative sentencing would be a more preferable means of managing Canada’s vulnerable, in lieu of mandatory minimum sentences, whose part in “the war on drugs” seems to have created heavy casualties.
If you have been charged with any criminal offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, we also offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all of your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.
 

### The Dos and Don’ts of Distributing Intimate Images
Before you take an intimate picture of yourself intending to send it to your boyfriend or girlfriend, first be aware that once you hit send, the picture may fall into the wrong hands, either intentionally or unintentionally. 
The Dos
Take Legal Action
If you know that an intimate picture of you has fallen into the wrong hands and is being distributed and you would like it to stop, you can take legal action. Canada now has a law to help deal with the non-consensual distribution of an intimate image. This law is based on the premise that it is illegal for a person to distribute an intimate picture of another person without that person’s consent. The person distributing the image, by either posting it online (like on a social media site for example) or by sharing it with their friends, could potentially be charged criminally. Since this is a serious charge, it would need to be clear that the person in the picture is you.
Take Action to Have it Removed
If the image is posted on social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, you can contact them to ask them to take it down. These days, many social media platforms have technology that recognizes these types of illicit pictures but sometimes some of them do fall through the cracks. In your message to the social media platform, inform them that you are a Canadian citizen who did not post the picture or video, rather someone else did it without your consent and that you would like it removed immediately.
The Don’ts 
Don’t Take Intimate Photos in the First Place 
One of the simplest ways to not get yourself in a sticky situation when it comes to having intimate photos of yourself distributed is to simply not distribute photos of this nature. If there is no photo, there is no way it can fall into the wrong hands.
Stop Speaking to the Person Who is Distributing the Picture
Once you have found out who is distributing the intimate picture of you and you have told them that you do not want this to continue and have asked them to stop, leave it at that. Go to the police, message your social media platforms, but don’t keep engaging with this person. The last thing you want to do is make them mad and have the situation escalate further. Who knows, if they get angry, they may share it with more people or post it on more sites.
You must be very careful when taking intimate photos. Even if you’re just sending them to your boyfriend or girlfriend, things may go south one day and then who knows what they will end up doing with the photo.
What to do if you are being investigated for distributing intimate images
On the flip side, if you are accused of distributing intimate images without consent, you must obtain legal advice at the earliest opportunity. It is treated as a serious offence and can carry jail time as a penalty, even for a first timer.
If you want to speak with a lawyer at Armoured Suits because you feel that someone is using an image of yours without consent, we offer a paid consultation option.
If you have been charged with distributing an intimate image and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, we also offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all of your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### Are Police Allowed to Search Your Car? If So, What Are the Limitations?
Legally speaking, police are required to have a reason to pull you over while you’re driving in your car. This could include things like having a tail light burnt out, failing to make a complete stop, making an illegal U-turn, or making an illegal left turn. The truth is, sometimes police pull citizens over for no reason at all. If a police officer does pull you over, you need to show them your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. Although you are required to give them this information, you are not required to answer any other questions or provide details that could possibly incriminate you.
But what happens if a police officer asks you to step out of your vehicle and tells you they would like to search your car? In most cases, police are not permitted to search your vehicle without first arresting you or getting a search warrant. They are, however, allowed to look inside your car through the windows and can use a flashlight to do this if it’s nighttime.
There are some extreme circumstances where police can search your car without arresting you or obtaining a search warrant first. If the police have probable and reasonable grounds to believe there are illegal drugs or alcohol in your car, they are allowed to search it. The same thing goes if they believe there is evidence relating to the commission of a crime in the car. In addition, they must also believe that drugs, alcohol, or evidence have the possibility of being destroyed if they needed to wait for a search warrant.
When it comes to searching your person, the police may only do so if you have been placed under arrest or if you have verbally consented to the search. There are some exceptions to this rule including:
 	The police are searching for drugs in an area and you are present. They believe that you possess drugs.
 	The police pull a vehicle over on suspicion that the people inside are drinking alcohol or transporting it illegally. If they believe that you have alcohol as well, you will have to submit to a police search of your person.
 	If the police believe that you possess an illegal weapon, or that you possess a weapon that was used to commit a crime, or they believe the weapon might be destroyed before they can get a search warrant issued, you will have to submit to a search.
For the reasons listed above, you are best advised to not obstruct the officers who are going to search. You do not have to provide your consent. Just don’t get upset or combative with the officers. If you believe you have been treated unfairly or that the police had no reason to search you, it’s recommended that you seek legal advice from a lawyer or make a complaint through the Office of the Independent Police Review Director (OIPRD).
If you do not have a lawyer and want to talk to one before taking action against the police, Ottawa’s Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers offer a free 30-minute private consultation. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### What Does Cleared by Charge Mean?
There are a lot of terms in the legal field. It can be hard not to feel intimidated and uncertain as you enter a legal process. One area that can be very confusing is how reported crimes are dealt with by police. 
You may have seen the phrase “cleared by charge” in descriptions of legal cases or lawyer’s websites. So, what does “cleared by charge” mean? 
A police investigation is complete only when it is “cleared.” Simple enough. There are two ways an investigation can be cleared, “by charge” or “otherwise.” If an investigation is not cleared, it means it has not been brought to an acceptable resolution.
So when an investigation is “cleared by charge,” it means police have completed their investigation by laying a charge against a suspect. “Cleared otherwise” means that the police were able to close the case but unable to lay a charge, for instance if the suspect was protected by diplomatic immunity.
The legal system is complicated and difficult to navigate. Armoured Suits can help you find your way through.  Contact us today to learn more.

### Pulled Over By The Police: What You Need To Know
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.4.8" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]The first thing you want to do when you get pulled over is; stay calm - whether you feel the stop is justified or not. Police officers never know what they’re walking into, so they are already on their guard when they approach a vehicle. Acting aggressively, yelling, or being purposely disrespectful will only add stress to the situation, and increase the chances that it escalates.
Can The Police Just Pull Me Over?
The short answer is, yes...and no.
The police need to have a legitimate reason to believe you warrant a closer look, such as broken traffic laws, suspicion of impairment, investigation of an offence, or a vehicle safety check.
When under oath, police officers must be able to properly articulate the reason why they pulled you over. If they are unable to do so, your case could be dismissed.
In Ontario, traffic laws are outlined in the Highway Traffic Act that gives police officers the power to pull you over to verify:
	valid driver’s licence
	vehicle is in good working order
	vehicle is properly insured
	no impairment due to alcohol/drugs.
What Do I Do If I Get Pulled Over?
Pull over when instructed to, and:
	Stay cool and calm - even if you feel the officer’s treatment is unfair.
	Be polite. Do not get loud or display anger.
	Keep your hands in the open. Do not put your hands into your pockets, and make sure the offer can see them at all times.
	Avoid sudden movements. If you need to get your documents from the glove compartment, ask the officer for permission.
	Be honest. If you are lying, you could be charged with obstructing justice.
Although you are encouraged to be polite, you do not have to speak to the police if you don't want to. Passengers do not have to answer any questions or give any identification documents, if they choose not to.
However, as the driver, when asked you must show the police your:
	driver’s licence
	vehicle registration
	proof of insurance for the vehicle
If you don’t show the police your documents, you could be charged with a provincial offence under the Highway Traffic Act.
Should I Agree To Take A Breathalyser Test?
If the police suspect you have been drinking, they can make you blow into a roadside screening device, or take a Standardized Field Sobriety test, which is a group of tests designed to assess balance, coordination, and determine if a driver is impaired.
You do not have the right to refuse a field sobriety test, and you do not have the right to speak to a lawyer before taking a test. Refusing to take a field sobriety test is a criminal offence, and will likely result in a charge of refusing to comply with a police demand.
If the police have solid grounds to suspect that your ability to drive has been affected by alcohol/drugs, like if the reading on the roadside machine shows you have been drinking, you will be brought to the police station and given a “breathalyzer test”.
Taking A Breathalyzer Test At The Police Station
A certified breath technician conducts the breathalyzer test to examine the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream, and based on the results, determines if you are impaired. If it’s not practical to obtain a breath sample, the police can order you to give a blood, urine, or saliva sample as an alternative.
You do have the right to speak to a lawyer before taking a breathalyzer test at a police station.
Refusing to do the breathalyzer test is a criminal offence, and you will be charged with refusing to comply with a police demand.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb icon_placement="left" _builder_version="4.13.0" custom_margin="20px||20px||true|false" custom_padding="20px||20px||true|false" global_colors_info="{}"]The Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) includes:
The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) - an involuntary "jerking" of the eyeball which is more exaggerated when a person is intoxicated.
The walk-and-turn - the driver takes nine steps, heel-to-toe, along a straight line, then turns on one foot to continue in the opposite direction. During the test, the officer looks for several indicators of impairment.
The one-leg stand test - the driver stands with one foot six inches off the ground and counts until the officer says to put the foot down. During the test, the officer observes for signs of impairment.[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.4.8" global_colors_info="{}"]Can The Police Search Me Without A Warrant?
The police actually do have limited powers to search you. For example, if you are detained because they have reasonable grounds to suspect that you have committed a criminal offence, the police can search for weapons to preserve public safety. 
The police can search you for any of these reasons:
to ensure their safety or the safety of the public 
to find evidence 
to stop the destruction of evidence
to ensure the safety of public facilities
Based on the reasons listed above, depending on the situation, the police may also have the right to search your car.
Consenting To A Search
The police can also search you if they are given informed consent, meaning; you’ve agreed to let them search you, and understand the possible consequences. 
In this case, the police still have to tell you the reasons why they want to search you, and the search must be limited to what you have consented to, not more. Remember, the police can use everything they find against you. 
Know Your Rights When Pulled Over By Police
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms  protects your individual rights in Canada, including the right to be secure against unreasonable search and seizure. This means that nobody can search you, take away your personal belongings, or access your personal information without clear legal reasons.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### What is Pseudolaw?
In the fall of 2017, 30-year-old Carlo Frederick Berg was convicted of sexual assault with a weapon. In 2015, Berg had pulled a woman into an alcove in an Edmonton strip mall, produced a knife and demanded that she perform a sexual act on him. Berg, a self-professed “sovereign citizen,” represented himself in court, submitting numerous bizarre materials to the court, including sheet music and a picture of the character Groot from the Marvel film Guardians of the Galaxy.
While strange, Berg’s defence is not unique. In fact, the recent phenomenon called “organized pseudolegal commercial arguments” (OPCA), or pseudolaw, has become an increasing problem for the Canadian court system over the last twenty years. Adherents often represent themselves in court and are distrustful of the legal system, often espousing common conspiracy theories.
The strawman theory, referenced by Berg in his defence, is a perfect example. The theory argues that each person is in fact two people in the eyes of the law, the physical, flesh and blood person and a separate legal personality, the “strawman.” Adherents argue that all debts, liabilities, taxes and legal responsibilities belong to the straw man, not the physical person. This is based on a misreading of a number of legal issues and is not an acceptable defence in court.
Canadian courts consistently reject as nonsense arguments based on pseudolaw. Additionally, using pseudolaw in a defence can have serious negative consequences, including financial penalties or jail time. The use of pseudolaw as a defence should be avoided at all costs, and it is always best to consult a lawyer for legal advice.
For more information on the phenomenon of pseudolaw, please read this paper written up by our lawyers at Armoured Suits.
 
[pdf-embedder url="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Organized-Pseudolegal-Commercial-Argument-Memo-of-Law.pdf"]
Excerpt: In the fall of 2017, 30-year-old Carlo Frederick Berg was convicted of sexual assault with a weapon. In 2015, Berg had pulled a woman into an alcove in an Edmonton strip mall, produced a knife and demanded that she perform a sexual act on him. Berg, a self-professed “sovereign citizen,” represented himself in court...

### Woman dies after falling through floor at Ottawa demolition site; friend faces charges
GARY DIMMOCK
Original Article Appeared in the Ottawa Citizen | December 11, 2019
Tracey Anne Millsop’s untimely death on May 3, 2018 never made the news until now.
Mother of two children. Known for helping others, whether as a teacher’s aide or shovelling snow. Married to Fonze Latourelle, they spent their free time boating and exploring the outdoors as a family, online photos show.
It was on a Thursday that Millsop, 47, went to help a friend, Cory Peters, clear debris from an interior demolition job he supervised on Cambridge Street South in Ottawa.
Millsop and her husband followed their friend Peters to the site, where they were to help remove debris from the demolition of the three-storey duplex.
The sheathing on the first floor had been removed and there was a makeshift pathway built with wooden planks. According to Ontario Health and Safety Act charges, which have yet to be publicly broadcast, the planks were different lengths and placed overlapped. The planks didn’t cover the width of the gaps between the floor joists, meaning there were openings.
It was on this unsafe pathway that Millsop fell through the open gap between two joists.
She hit her ribs on a joist and remained conscious after the fall. Her friends helped her to her feet and she said she didn’t want to go to the hospital, so they left Ottawa and her husband started driving home to Gatineau. But when she lost consciousness, he drove her to Gatineau hospital where she died from her injuries.
The coroner concluded Millsop died because her ribs punctured her liver.
The temporary flooring at the construction site was not secured properly and didn’t actually cover the open area, which left the joists exposed, according to a Ministry of Labour report.
Peters, a friend of Millsop, was charged under the Ontario Health and Safety Act with failing to ensure a protective covering over the open work surface, and is expected to plead guilty to the non-criminal charge.
“My client, Mr. Peters, feels horribly about the entire situation and the loss of his friend. He is expected to take full responsibility,” said defence lawyer Joshua Clarke.
While Peters is expected to plead guilty in 2020 and likely be ordered to pay a fine, his employer, Sucasa Construction Corp. has pleaded not guilty and will take the case to trial.
“This employee (Peters) was not acting on behalf of my client (Sucasa) and we are fighting the charge,” said defence lawyer Bruce Engel.
The workplace-safety charge against Sucasa has not been tested in court.

### Former fire chief from Elgin pleads guilty to bilking taxpayers out of $65,000 (IOV)
Gerald Bennett’s sentencing hearing Sept. 3
Laurie Weir, Smiths Falls Record News
A former eastern Ontario fire chief pleaded guilty to charges of theft, fraud and breach of trust Monday July 8 in Brockville criminal court.
Sentencing for Gerald Bennett, 61, of Elgin, who was the chief for the Town of Gananoque with contracted services to the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands (TLTI), will be held Sept. 3.
It was back in 2016 that Bennett was charged with 15 counts of fraud, six counts of uttering forged documents and three counts of breach of trust.
Shelley Fournier, chief administrative officer of Gananoque, who was the former director of corporate services for the Town of Perth before leaving for the new position in Gananoque in 2015, spoke with the Record News on Wednesday, July 10, about the court case.
Fournier said she spearheaded the investigation, uncovering schemes and going through fake invoices and providing those findings to the OPP’s anti-rackets unit. Through searching Bennett’s emails, she found invoices from people to whom Bennett was selling the town’s products — including Lanark Highlands, BBD & E and Arnprior fire departments.
“It was a very difficult time, realizing it wasn’t just one transgression. It was over a number of years and a number of different ways he was doing it — creating fake invoices, selling town property to other fire departments.”
Fournier said Bennett sold analogue pagers to these other departments at a reduced rate with cheques made out to the fire association, not the town, who owned the property.
“All the revenue wasn’t coming to the town,” she said. “The town doesn’t have access to the association’s books. Once we saw one invoice from Arnprior that the fire association expensed them, I asked the association for their books and that’s when it really unfolded. The money that was coming in was being turned over to Gerry (monthly).”
According to Bennett’s lawyer, Joshua Clarke of Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers, who was contacted by the Record News, Bennett “has apologized for his actions, explained how embarrassed he was and how he hopes to be forgiven.”
Bennett has been in counselling for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Clarke said.
“He started counselling around the time he was suspended in 2016. Diagnosed with PTSD related to work traumas — seeing people die. Has been following treatment since,” Clarke noted.
Bennett’s restitution includes payback to the township in the amount of $11,240.75; to the town $13,733.70 and to the firefighters’ association in the amount of $20,699.50, for a total $45,673.95.
THE INVESTIGATION
The investigation into charges against Bennett began in 2016, and Fournier said Monday, July 8 was a day of closure.
“It was exhausting for sure. It started back in September 2016 when we became aware of it,” she said. “I’m relieved that the matter has finally concluded ... I think I was the only one that has seen this thing through from beginning to end. With the election, the turnover in council, in the township a different chief administrative officer, different mayor, treasurer … “
Fournier provided a victim impact statement in the case, which she shared with this newspaper.
“From an emotional standpoint, that’s very difficult when you’ve got diehard Gerry supporters, and Gerry himself maintaining his innocence and because of his influence in the community and the number of people that he knew, and he had touched over the years, unfortunately, it turned negatively toward the town. It was a witch hunt and a ruse we set up … those were all the things that were coming at us,” she said.
There were people shouting at her across the street, “You should be ashamed of yourself.” Along with the jeers at council meetings, shunning and dirty looks and of course we had to maintain confidentiality,” which she said was the hardest part for her knowing that these allegations against the town were untrue.
“Monday was a day of reckoning. It was the opportunity to speak and let the truth be told. And of course, by him pleading guilty, he recognized he was guilty of all these (charges),” Fournier said.
As a member of the senior management team, Fournier said she placed a lot of trust in Bennett. “We’re that group that essentially runs the town. Your emergency fire service, fire chief, is in a position of public trust.”
The town and township collectively met with OPP after the township treasurer identified a fraudulent invoice with a logo from a local business regarding a part for a fire truck. When the fake logo was created, it was obvious to the treasurer that it did not belong to the business.
“That’s really what brought the whole thing down,” Fournier said. “Once we saw this, we really started to look deeper.”
Fournier said they hired their own forensic investigator, who asked for suppliers to reproduce their invoices to compare to the ones given to them by Bennett.
“When invoices come through, (daily) they look legitimate," she said. "There is no red flag on them at all."
Input was sought from the town’s auditor to seek ways in which to tighten up their system.
“There is nothing the municipality can do short of asking for duplicate invoices … which would bring transactions to a … snail’s pace. When you have a person of that much seniority making purchases saying these invoices are accurate, that’s where the breach of trust is.”
Bennett was an employee of the town, with services contracted to the township. He was placed on paid-administrative leave in September 2016 and fired in November. There are now two full-time fire chiefs for the town and the township respectively — Steve Tiernan in Gananoque, and Rick Lawson in TLTI.
As for a dual role for one chief, Fournier said they’re a little hesitant to get back into that relationship.”
There was a shock wave that went through both departments, she said.
“These guys put their lives on the line for us. They’re a brotherhood. And the difficulty for me was that I wasn’t able to tell the brotherhood what he’d done, and because he was so important to them and such a figurehead for them, it was really difficult for them to understand what was happening. And it really did pit believers and non-believers within both organizations against each other. Even until Monday (July 8), he had all kinds of people in the courtroom — friends and family that came as supporters. That’s not over.”
Fournier said she sees the township and the town moving forward in a positive direction.
“I just think we should close the book on this one,” she said. “Emergency services are so important. We really need to have a good working relationship with one another.”
Fournier not only has a deep connection to this professionally, but on a personal level she’s married to a retired fire chief, Steve Fournier, who was the Perth chief for many years before retiring in 2016. He then moved to an interim chief position for the Township of Rideau Lakes, a role he no longer holds. Currently, he is the reeve in Drummond North Elmsley Township. He was acclaimed during the 2018 municipal election.
“Because my husband is a retired fire chief, I hold the position in such high regard,” Fournier said. “I think it hurt me more than what most CAOs would feel. I don’t want this one individual to reflect badly on the legacy my husband had, or the legacy of other fire chiefs across Ontario.”

### What Are Canada’s New Drunk Driving Laws?
There are sweeping proposed changes to Canada’s driving under the influence of alcohol laws. According to an April 2017 Health Canada backgrounder, the most noted and perhaps most controversial change, if these proposed changes become law, is that police will be able to demand samples of your breath in an “approved screening device” if they lawfully stop you. No longer will they need to first require a suspicion that you have alcohol in your body. Another change that has been talked about in the media is that the blood alcohol content in your system to be considered legally under the influence could be reduced from 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood to 50 millilitres.
What Will the Penalties Be?
The proposed law would increase most mandatory fines for first-time offenders:
 	If you are a first offender with a reading of 80 to 119 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, you would be fined a mandatory fine of $1,000.
 	If you are a first offender with a reading of 120 to 159 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, your fine would be raised to $1,500.
 	If you are a first offender with a reading of 160 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood or more, your fine would be raised to $2,000.
If you refuse to be tested and this is your first offence, you would be subject to a $2,000 mandatory minimum fine.
For repeat offenders, things get a little more complex. The mandatory prison sentences for repeat offenders would remain the same under current law: 30 days for a second offence and 120 days for any subsequent offence. The maximum penalties in cases of where there is no injuries or death would be two years less a day on summary conviction, and up to 10 years on indictment. By increasing the latter sentencing to 10 years, it would become possible to have you labeled a dangerous offender in certain circumstances, which would keep you in jail indefinitely, with no chance of parole for seven years.
For offences that cause bodily harm, these would now be hybrid offences, which would allow the Crown to decide if the case should be tried summarily where the injuries are less severe (say you gave someone a broken arm or leg). This is meant to reduce court delays because summary convictions are simpler and take less time to go through the courts.
The other major change is that dangerous driving convictions would be increased to life sentences. This is to keep the law consistent with other transportation offences that cause death.
What Are the Other Consequences of the New Law?

Under the proposed legislation, you will no longer be able to offer certain defences for drinking and driving. For instance, you won’t be able to say in court that you were under the legal limit when you started driving because the alcohol hadn’t yet been absorbed by your body. Instead of being “over 80” at the time of your testing, you will now be considered “over 80” within two hours of testing. Also, there will be limitations placed on the defence where you claim you consumed alcohol after driving, but before providing a breath sample.
Contact Us
If you want more information on how the proposed laws may impact you, Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private phone consultation. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.
 

### What Are the Differences Between Theft, Burglary and Robbery?
What Are the Differences Between Theft, Burglary and Robbery?
Theft, burglary and robbery are often thought to be the same thing. However, from a legal standpoint, they all have subtle differences from each other. In this article, Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers will outline just how different these terms are below. 
What Is Theft?
The most basic definition of theft is where you intentionally take something from someone else without their permission. Section 332 (1) of Canada’s Criminal Code explains the scope of a theft:
 	 (1) Every one commits theft who fraudulently and without colour of right takes, or fraudulently and without colour of right converts to his use or to the use of another person, anything, whether animate or inanimate, with intent
(a) to deprive, temporarily or absolutely, the owner of it, or a person who has a special property or interest in it, of the thing or of his property or interest in it;
(b) to pledge it or deposit it as security;
(c) to part with it under a condition with respect to its return that the person who parts with it may be unable to perform; or
(d) to deal with it in such a manner that it cannot be restored in the condition in which it was at the time it was taken or converted.
Time when theft completed
(2) A person commits theft when, with intent to steal anything, he moves it or causes it to move or to be moved, or begins to cause it to become movable.
Secrecy
(3) A taking or conversion of anything may be fraudulent notwithstanding that it is effected without secrecy or attempt at concealment.
Purpose of taking
(4) For the purposes of this Act, the question whether anything that is converted is taken for the purpose of conversion, or whether it is, at the time it is converted, in the lawful possession of the person who converts it is not material.
Again, intent is a major component of theft. A person meant to take the object and deprive its owner of their use or convert it to a state where it cannot be used as intended, for a theft to have occurred. 
There are two types of theft in Canada based on the value of the goods stolen. If they are valued under $5,000, the theft case will be tried as either an indictable offence or a less serious summary offence depending on how the Crown wishes to proceed. 
If the stolen items are valued at over $5,000, then the case will be indictable. You could face up to 10 years in prison, a hefty fine, or both, for this more serious offence. 
What are the Differences Between a Burglary and a Robbery?
A common misunderstanding of these two terms are understandable because they are, in some ways, very similar. It should be noted here that the term “burglary” is no longer used in the Criminal Code, and offences under this category now fall under Break and Enter provisions. Our addition of burglary is from a historical perspective in how it was used. 
Both a burglary and a robbery involve property and theft. However, in a burglary, a victim did not have to be present, though they could be. In a robbery, a victim is present. That is the main difference, though there are other distinctions.
Essentially, burglary referred to the act of gaining illegal access to a structure, such as a home, to carry out any other serious offence. Again, a victim did not have to be at the scene of the crime for a burglary to have taken place. However, a robbery is the illegal act of taking a valuable from a person using intimidation or force. A victim has to be at the scene of a theft for the robbery to happen.
How Is Robbery Different from a Theft? 
Robbery is distinguished from a theft in that the use of violence is present. If you use threats or violence to obtain property, that’s robbery -- not theft. You could use a weapon or an imitation weapon in a robbery. Therefore, and understandably, robbery is much more serious from a theft. It is always an indictable offence. You could face a fine of more than $5,000 or up to 10 years in prison, or both. 
I’ve Been Charged with Theft or Robbery
If you are looking for a lawyer to defend you against a theft or robbery charge, Ottawa’s Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers offers a free 30-minute private consultation. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### Is It Mischief or Breaking and Entering?
There have been arrests detailed in the media where people are charged with both mischief and breaking and entering for a crime they allegedly committed. One instance that occurred in the Ottawa Valley saw four people charged with break and enter and a variety of mischief offences for a string of home, cottage and hunting camp break-ins.
So why are breaking and entering and mischief different and yet seemingly tied together? First, you need to know the distinctions between the two.
What is Breaking and Entering?
As discussed in a previous Armoured Suits article on this topic, breaking and entering is:
[W]hen you trespass or attempt to trespass on private property with the intent to commit an indictable, or serious, offence. Typically, this is where you break into a retailer or private home to steal property, but can also include breaking into a vehicle such as a trailer or a pen that holds fur-bearing animals for breeding or commercial purposes. The evidence in these cases is usually circumstantial, so Crown prosecutors will try to establish your identity and guilt as the person who committed the crime by being found with the stolen item or items in your possession some time later.
Breaking and entering a residential dwelling is punishable by up to life in prison. (However, some provinces have sent a benchmark on breaking and entering at three years.) If you break and enter a premise other than a residential home, you can get up to 10 years in jail as an indictable offence and six month on a less serious summary offence.
What is Mischief?
Mischief, on the other hand, is involved with the property itself. Typically it will involve property damage caused by vandalism.
According to section 430 of Canada’s Criminal Code, mischief is generally defined as:
430. (1) Every one commits mischief who wilfully
(a) destroys or damages property;
(b) renders property dangerous, useless, inoperative or ineffective;
(c) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property; or
(d) obstructs, interrupts or interferes with any person in the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property.
However, other offences that can be grouped into mischief include:
Interference with electronic data.
Causing danger to life.
Damaging religious property and war memorials.
Mischief is usually a hybrid offence, except when danger to human life is involved, and can be tried as a summary (less serious) or indictable (more serious) offence. When danger to human life is involved, the offence is always indictable and the conviction can carry a life in prison sentence.
Returning to the Original Question
So when is mischief, mischief and breaking and entering, considered breaking and entering? Well, if you break into a property, steal some valuables, and then leave -- that’s breaking and entering. In the process of a break and enter, if you spray paint the walls of the victim’s home or break something, that’s mischief. So it’s entirely possible and easy for someone to be charged with breaking and entering and mischief, if one disrupts the victim’s property in the course of the act of illegally entering their home.
I’ve Been Charged
If you’ve been charged with breaking and entering, mischief or both, contact Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-minute confidential consultation.

### What Information Is Shared In A Vulnerable Sector Check?
Are you applying for a job, volunteer work or educational opportunities? If you are, you may be asked to conduct a Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC). This is meant to assess your suitability for positions where you would have trust or authority in relation to vulnerable persons. This includes children under 18 years of age, people who are dependent on others due to age, disability or circumstance, or people otherwise at a greater risk than the general population.
A PVSC is a search of the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) and other local databases for records made by any police service in Canada and, in the past, it would release convictions and non-conviction records relating to you. Having non-conviction information – such as a suicide attempt or you were stopped and “carded” by police – might bar you from future employment, volunteer and educational opportunities. However, thanks to changes in Ontario law which come into force on November 1st, 2018, only certain types of information can be disclosed.
Is a Records Check a Human Rights Violation?
Some organizations felt that background checks violated many human rights, both in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Ontario Human Rights Code.
In 2015, Ontario introduced the Police Record Checks Reform Act to address these concerns. This amended the information revealed from Police Record Checks and how employers could conduct criminal background checks such as a PVSC. This Act received royal assent in December 2015.
This means that non-criminal record information in police databases because of street checks, “carding” or incidents relating to mental health issues will not be disclosed in PVSCs. Most convictions for which a pardon has been granted will not be disclosed in police record checks, either, though there are exceptions to this rule. The disclosure of “non-conviction information” will only occur during a PVSC.
Under this new law, you are entitled to receive and review any police information about you first before it is disclosed to the organization requesting the information. You must also consent to the disclosure of the information to the organization requesting it.
While it is commonly known that police have shared information about suicide attempts and similar mental health issues with U.S. border agents, which has prohibited people from crossing the border, the law does not cover this.
What Information Will Now Be Disclosed?
The Vulnerable Sector Check WILL include the following information:
(a) Criminal convictions from CPIC and/or local databases.
(b) Summary convictions, for five years, when identified.
(c) Findings of Guilt under the Youth Criminal Justice Act within the applicable disclosure period.
(d) Outstanding entries, such as charges and warrants, judicial orders, Peace Bonds, Probation and Prohibition Orders. As per CPIC policy, information obtained from the Investigative Databank must be confirmed and authorized for release by the contributing agency.
(e) Absolute and conditional discharges for 1 or 3 years respectively.
(f) In very exceptional cases, where it meets the Exceptional Disclosure Assessment, non-conviction dispositions including, but not limited to, Withdrawn and Dismissed.
(g) Not Criminally Responsible by Reason of Mental Disorder.
(h) All record suspensions as authorized for release by the Minister of Public Safety.
The Vulnerable Sector Check WILL NOT include:
(a) Convictions under provincial statutes.
(b) Local police contact.
(c) Ministry of Transportation information (PARIS).
(d) Special Interest Police (SIP) category of CPIC.
(e) Family Court Restraining Orders.
(f) Foreign information.
(g) Any reference to incidents involving mental health contact.
(h) Diversions will not be released as police contact and no reference to the occurrence is permitted (CC S. 717.4).
(i) Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) information beyond the applicable disclosure period.
(j) Any reference to contagious diseases.
If you live outside of Ottawa/Gatineau, you CANNOT request a records check from the Ottawa Police Service.
It should be noted that Vulnerable sector checks must be conducted by the local Canadian police service where an applicant lives.
Contact a Lawyer
If you would like to obtain more information about what can be shared in a Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC), a Criminal Records Check (CR) or a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJM), Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private phone consultation. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### What Is Harrassment?
Harrassment has been a hot topic in the Canadian media over the last week. A series of allegations made by the wife of the captain of the Ottawa Senators against a fellow teammate’s fiancée, detailing a season-long campaign of targeted online harassment, has many people asking what exactly constitutes harrassment versus cyberbullying.
In his latest CTV Morning Live Ottawa segment, Armoured Suit Criminal Defence Lawyer Joshua Clarke answers questions around criminal harrassment, including repeated communications and threatening conduct. Joshua delves into cyberbullying and the potential legal consequences, along with giving viewers a better understanding of what it means to file a "peace bond".
Have You Been Accused of Harassment?
Contact Armoured Suits
Need assistance with a criminal harrassment charge? Book your complimentary 30-minute private phone consultation. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### The Cost of Defence
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You're facing charges. You need to hire a lawyer. Just how much is it going to cost?
Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyer Joshua Clarke discusses the cost of defence and legal services with CTV Morning Live Ottawa.
In his segment, Joshua gives an overview on initial retainers. He also addresses Legal Aid Ontario and why contingency fee arrangements are prohibited by the Law Society of Ontario for both criminal law and family law cases.
Contact Us
Need legal assistance? Worried about the cost of defence? Book your complimentary 30-minute private phone consultation and ask us about our payment plans.
Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting
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Excerpt: In this segment, attorney Joshua Clarke gives an overview on initial retainers. He also addresses Legal Aid Ontario and why contingency fee arrangements are prohibited by the Law Society of Ontario for both criminal law and family law cases.

### Defending Yourself Against Drunk Driving Offences
You may have been charged with a drunk driving offence, and feel that your chances of being acquitted are slim. That’s actually not the case. A good lawyer will be able to help you defend yourself and will be aware of possible options available to your defence.
Still, many people feel that they’ve been caught in the act of drinking while impaired and that there’s no way to defend their actions. If this is you, you may be tempted to plead guilty because you may feel that there’s no way around defending yourself. Don’t. You may be amazed at the options that could undo the case against you. 
What is Impaired Driving?
An impaired driving charge basically is made when the police think your ability to drive has been impaired by alcohol or drugs. It doesn’t matter if you passed or failed a breathalyzer test. In court, police will testify about the impairment that they noticed and may provide video evidence from the scene of the arrest or from the police station. 
If you’ve been charged with having “over 80,” it means your blood alcohol concentration was found to be more than the legal limit of 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood. 
Impaired driving and “over 80” charges are offences under the Criminal Code. So is refusing to take a breathalyzer test when the police order you to do so. So is sleeping in a vehicle while intoxicated because you’re in the “care and control” of a vehicle. That all means that if you are convicted, you will have a criminal record. That will open up problems with being able to travel, adopting a child, finding an apartment to rent, and obtaining employment, among other things. 
Recent legislation will make changes to impaired driving penalties. For more information on this, consult the Government of Canada’s backgrounder on Changes to Impaired Driving Laws.
How to Defend Yourself in Court
You can defend an impaired driving charge by hiring an experienced, competent lawyer, such as the ones at Armoured Suits, to help you resolve your case. For instance, we may be able to broker a plea deal that will see you plead guilty to the lesser charge of careless driving, which won’t lead to a criminal record in some cases.
We can also use potential defences. Perhaps your constitutional rights have been violated during the arrest or while you were in police custody? You may have been arbitrarily detained, denied the right to counsel, not given the reasons for being detained, or had an unreasonable search and seizure of your property. There may also have been delays in the timing of the breath demand from the police or the delays in providing the testing. You might also have waited a long time for your case to come to trial. All of these things could have an impact on the successful resolution of your case.
We can also help you challenge issues surrounding the breathalyzer used, the test results and the police’s methods. If the police haven’t treated you professionally, a judge might stay the charge or charges against you. 
Essentially, the laws against drunk driving can be complicated and many cases are won on technicalities. Again, it is important that you hire a competent lawyer to help you win. 
Contact Us
If you don’t have a lawyer, and want to defend yourself against a drinking and driving charge, Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private consultation. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### Joshua Clarke on 580 CFRA "Experts On Call"
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On April 7, 2018, Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers' Joshua Clarke shared his expertise during the 580 CFRA "Experts On Call" program.
In case you missed Joshua, you can listen to the entire hour in short segments -or- download the podcast in its entirety.
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ArmouredSuits-07April18-Seg03
ArmouredSuits-07April18-Seg04
ArmouredSuits-07April18-Podcast (FULL)
 
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Excerpt: Joshua Clarke shared his expertise during the 580 CFRA "Experts On Call" program. In case you missed Joshua, you can listen to the entire hour in short segments -or- download the podcast in its entirety.

### Are Cellphone Data Searches Legal in Canada?
A controversial December 2014 Supreme Court of Canada ruling allows police to search some information on your cellphone without a warrant when making an arrest.
Basically, there are only certain circumstances where police are authorized to conduct a cellphone search without a warrant, such as during an arrest. This is so that police can ensure public safety and collect evidence related to the arrest.
However, there are limitations on warrantless searches of cellphone data:
 	The police must have a legal reason for your arrest. This means you have committed a criminal act or the police reasonably believe that you committed a criminal act.
 	The search must happen promptly at your arrest, and the police must have a “reasonable basis” for searching your phone relevant to your arrest. This is to help them locate additional suspects, or search for information that the police need to conduct their investigation at the time of your arrest.
 	The police can only search your phone for information they are looking for.
 	The police must take detailed notes of what they searched and what they found.
 	What the police cannot do is routinely browse your phone. Also, if you are not under arrest and a police officer does not have a warrant, they do not have the right to search or see information on your phone. In this circumstance, you have the right to say no to any search.
Can the Police Access All of My Phone’s Data?
Police do not have the right to search your phone without limits. They may, for instance, want to look at communications that took place in a reasonable time frame related to the offense you are being arrested for. They do not have the right to access all of your phone’s history. That said, given how cell phones work and provide information to the end user, it is entirely possible that the police could accidentally access unrelated content when conducting a lawful search.
Do I Have to Give Police My Phone Password?
If your phone is password-protected, you do not have to give police that password due to your right to remain silent during your arrest. However, police have other means to unlock your phone, such as doing a forensic search or trying various passwords. It is unclear from the Supreme Court ruling if police have the right to seize your phone to conduct a thorough search. For that, police may have to obtain a warrant.
Can Police Delete Any Photos or Recordings On My Phone?

No. Given your rights, police cannot remove any information from your device.
If Police Want to Search My Home or Car, Can They Search My Phone, Too?
It depends. If you allow police to search your car or home, you may be giving them permission to search your phone, too. If you’re not under arrest, be clear to the police that the ability to search your home or car (or bag) does not give them the broader ability to search your phone.
Can My Cell Phone Provider Give Information to the Police?
According to a 2016 Ontario Superior Court ruling, telecom companies have the obligation to protect the privacy of their subscriber’s personal information, and police must make sure that requests for this information are minimally intrusive. The decision found that overly broad production orders for cell phone subscriber information were unconstitutional under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Contact Us
If you would like more information about what the police can search on your phone during an arrest, Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private phone consultation. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting
 

### Ottawa Criminal Defence Lawyer Joshua Clarke Discusses The Legal Side of #MeToo
Joshua Clarke visited Ottawa’s CTV Morning Live earlier this week to discuss the legal side of the #METOOmovement. Be sure to watch Joshua’s segment to better understand the difference between sexual misconduct and sexual harrassment.
 
 

### Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyer, Joshua Clarke, on CTV Morning Live Ottawa
Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers' Joshua Clarke was featured on CTV Morning Live Ottawa. If you've ever wondered exactly what a defence lawyer does and when you would need one, be sure to watch Joshua's "legal brief" segment. It answers many of the commonly asked questions and more.

### Can I Plead Guilty After My Trial Date Is Set?
Yes, you can give up your right to a having trial and plead guilty at any time – even after your trial date is set. 
That said, you should always talk to your lawyer or duty counsel (who advise you before a court hearing) about pleading guilty before you make this decision. You need to understand all your legal options before you make the decision to plead guilty to an offense. 
What Should I Do Before Pleading Guilty?
It is vital that you thoroughly understand the particulars about your case before you make a guilty plea – no matter when you’re planning on making it.
A good place to start is by reading your disclosure. A disclosure is the copy of the evidence that the police and Crown have gathered about you to prosecute your case. The disclosure usually contains copies of:
 	Police officers’ notes.
 	Witness statements.
 	Photographs.
 	Any other relevant documents. 
The disclosure is usually given to you on your first court appearance. If you don’t understand your disclosure document, speak to your lawyer or duty counsel right away.
Really read through the synopsis of your particular charge(s) in the first few pages of the disclosure package carefully. The synopsis is a written summary of the evidence the police have collected against you. 
You might agree with all, part of or none of what the synopsis says. Tell your lawyer what you agree with and what you do not agree with. Your lawyer will then give you advice about your possible guilty plea. Even if you agree with everything the police is saying about what you have done, you should still talk to your lawyer before making the guilty plea. And if you have only a minor disagreement about what is being said about your alleged criminal offense, you should definitely talk to a lawyer before pleading guilty. 
Why? Your lawyer can tell you what difficulties the Crown might have in their case against you and any possible defence strategies that are available to you. Your lawyer can also tell you what the Crown is seeking as a sentence and what sentence you probably will receive if you move forward with a guilty plea. These are things that you really should explore before you make any sort of plea – even if you decide to change your plea to guilty before or during the proceedings against you. 
You should also know what “the facts” are against you. For more reasons why, consult the section on “the facts” after this next paragraph.
Also, you may get an “additional disclosure” after you obtain your initial disclosure package. Be sure that nothing is missing from your initial disclosure. If you have a lawyer, they will make sure that you have all of the disclosure and ask for an additional disclosure, if needed.  If there is anything missing and you don’t have a lawyer, you should speak to a lawyer right away so they can request the Crown for more information. This could be very important to your case and your decision to plead guilty.  
What are “the Facts”?
The facts are usually the events described in your disclosure’s synopsis. Therefore, if you don’t agree with any or all the facts, you should never plead guilty. 
This is a key part of any guilty plea, so it is extremely, extremely, extremely vital that you understand what the facts are in your case and fully agree with them before pleading guilty. Your lawyer will go through these facts with you prior to your guilty plea. 
In addition, the facts that are agreed upon by both you and the prosecution can either increase or lower the penalty you may receive. Some facts are very important. Some are not.
What Does a “Guilty” Plea Really Mean, Anyway?
This is a great question, and it is something that is not easy to explain in a blog article. (Which is another reason why you should always talk to your lawyer before making a plea.) Essentially, being guilty of something in reality and being “legally guilty” are often two very different things.
If you want to plead guilty to a legal, criminal offense, it means that the physical acts that you agree that you did (or things you did not do in negligence cases, for instance) are a criminal offense. Your state of mind also had to be guilty when you committed the offense. In most cases, this means that what you did is both a criminal offense and that you absolutely meant to do (or not do) what you did. 
That also means that if you did something accidentally or did not mean to do it, that fact does not support a guilty plea – in most cases. 
Again, this is a rather complex topic – so be sure to seek legal advice from a lawyer.
I Still Want to Plead Guilty. What Should I Bring to Court? 
If we still haven’t persuaded you against pleading guilty, and you still want to go ahead with a guilty plea (assuming that you agree that you are legally guilty of the criminal offense(s) and agree with everything being said against you), you should bring the following items to court:
 	Your disclosure.
 	Reference letters that speak to your good character. These can be from employers, volunteer organizations, religious groups, teachers and professors, and neighbours and family members.
 	Proof of employment in the form of a signed letter.
 	Proof of counselling, if applicable. 
 	Proof of community service, if applicable. 
What Is a “Plea Inquiry”?
This is the first phase of a guilty plea. These are four questions that a judge will ask you in court before you’re allowed to plead guilty. Your duty counsel or lawyer will have asked these questions of you privately if you tell them you plan to plead guilty. These questions will let the judge know that you fully understand what it means to plead guilty, that you are aware that you can plead not guilty and have a trial, and that you are fully aware of what can happen to you if you plead guilty.
If the judge is not satisfied with your answers, they will reject your guilty plea and proceed directly to trial. 
Otherwise, your lawyer can talk to you about what happens after a plea inquiry is heard. 
Contact Us
If you already have a lawyer, it is best that you contact that person. We cannot become involved in your case.
If you don’t have a lawyer, and if you’re thinking of pleading guilty after a trial date has been set (or, at any time, really), Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private consultation. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### Can I Get a Trial in French in Ontario?
Absolutely. If French is your language of choice, and you have been charged with breaking a federal statute, Section 530 of the Criminal Code states that the accused in a criminal trial has the right to be tried in French. 
That section states, “On application by an accused whose language is one of the official languages of Canada … the accused (can) be tried before a justice of the peace, provincial court judge, judge or judge and jury, as the case may be, who speak the official language of Canada that is the language of the accused or, if the circumstances warrant, who speak both official languages of Canada.”
What’s more, the judge or justice of the peace must make you aware of your right to be tried in the language of your choice or through a bilingual trial. You must exercise that right by requesting that your court proceedings or trial be held in French, if that is your choice. 
Having a French hearing means:
 	A preliminary hearing and trial with a judge or justice and a public prosecutor who speaks French.
 	Have French used in the proceeding’s documents.
 	Apply to have your information or indictment translated into French.
 	Having jurors in your trial who speak French. If no French speaking potential jury members can be found – for instance, if you’re a Francophone living in an area of the Upper Ottawa Valley where few French speaking people live and you want the jury trial to be in French –  the trial can be moved to an area of the province where there are enough people who speak French to form a jury, (for example, in Ottawa, where there is much more of a Francophone population).   
What Happens if My Right to a French Trial is Violated? 
There could be serious penalties applied to a court that does not allow you to have your trial conducted in French when you are charged with a federal Criminal Code offence. 
In 2015, the Ontario Court of Appeal (the province’s top court) ruled that a French-speaking Ottawa man’s right to a French trial on charges of possessing and trafficking cocaine was violated. Not only did the Ontario Court of Appeal strike down the man’s conviction, but it even ordered the Crown to pay his legal costs!
Can a Witness at a Trial Speak French?
Yes. Witnesses can speak in the official language of their choice, and, if needed, the court will also provide an interpreter. 
What If My Case is Covered by Provincial Law?
If you haven’t broken a federal Criminal Code law, but are being accused of breaking a law covered by an Ontario provincial statute, you will still have the right to have a bilingual trial. This right extends to every Francophone or French-speaking person living in Ontario no matter where you live in the province.
This means that: 
 	Your hearing must be presided over by a bilingual judge.
 	If your hearing or trial is held before a jury, jury members must speak French and English – but only in designated areas in accordance with the Courts of Justice Act in Ontario.  All of Ottawa, and much of the area to the south and east of Ottawa, is a designated area. Consult this map for more information. 
 	Evidence will be received, recorded and transcribed in the language it was received in – again, only in a designated area of Ontario. 
 	You can file a plea and other documents written in French – once again, in a designated area such as Ottawa. In an non-designated area, you may file pleas and other documents in French with the consent of the other party in your case. 
 	Reasons for decisions may be written in French and English. 
You can request a bilingual trial in Ontario if you receive the following provincial notices:
 	Offence notice.
 	Summons.
 	Parking infraction notice.
 	Notice of impending conviction.
How do I Request a Bilingual Trial or Court Proceeding in Ontario?
You can exercise your right to a bilingual court proceeding by:
 	Filing or issuing your first document to the court in French (in a designated area or otherwise with the consent of the other party involved).
 	Filing a requisition form requesting a bilingual proceeding.
 	Filing a written statement with the court requesting a bilingual proceeding.
 	Making an oral statement to the court during an appearance in the proceeding asking that the proceeding be conducted as a bilingual proceeding. 
To request a bilingual trial, you’ll need to check the appropriate box on the notice of intention to appear in court. In the case of a summons, you may request a bilingual trial when the court date is set. Note that all forms used in the Ontario courts system are either bilingual or available as separate French and English documents. 
The prosecutor will be bilingual if your case or legal matter is prosecuted on the Crown’s behalf. 
Consult Armoured Suits
If you want to know more about your right to a French language trial in Ontario, Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private consultation. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### How Do I Apply For a Pardon?
How Do I Apply For a Pardon?
A pardon is formally known in Canada as a record suspension. It is offered to those who were convicted of a criminal offense, but have completed their sentence and can demonstrate they are now law-abiding citizens.  
A pardon will keep your criminal record separate from other criminal records. This means that a search of the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database will not show you had a criminal record, nor that you were issued a record suspension. However, a pardon does not imply that you were falsely convicted or that the crime didn’t occur. 
By seeking a pardon, you are indicating that criminal behaviour is no longer part of who you are and that your past criminal history should no longer haunt you.
Pardons or record suspensions are issued by the Parole Board of Canada. You need to complete your sentence and then meet specific eligibility requirements. If you have met the criteria set by the Parole Board, you need to prepare an application. 
Why Should I Apply for a Pardon? 
You could be at a serious disadvantage with a criminal record. You can have trouble with:
 	Getting a job or a promotion.
 	Travelling to other countries, particularly the United States.
 	Getting volunteer work.
 	Getting bonded.
 	Obtaining an apartment for rent. 
 	Obtaining child custody.
 	Adopting a child. 
 	Being approved for a mortgage.
 	Being approved for some educational opportunities.
 	Being approved for Canadian citizenship or permanent residence. 
Even if your criminal record has not yet impeded your life, it probably will at some point. People usually only think about getting a pardon when the impact is immediate. Getting a record suspension can give you peace of mind well in advance of any problems and it is an acknowledgment that you shouldn’t have to suffer for any mistakes you made in the past. For this reason, it is a wise idea to apply for a pardon once you immediately become eligible. 
Who Can Apply for a Pardon? 
Anyone can apply if they were convicted of a criminal offense under a Canadian act or regulation. Even if you are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can still apply. If you were convicted in another country and it was transferred to Canada under the Transfer of Offenders Act, you can apply, too. 
What Methods Can I Use to Apply?
There are three ways in which you can apply for a pardon. There are pros and cons to each approach.
 	By yourself. You can fill out the application on your own and it won’t cost you anything for the application (you  will still need to pay a filing fee to the Parole Board), but you’ll need to go to a third-party accredited agency to handle obtaining your fingerprints for certification purposes with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). You can download the record suspension application instructions and forms. Just be aware that you will have some reading to do: the PDF version of the application guide is 28 pages long and is filled with bureaucratic speak. Also, the rules of eligibility can change without notice, which can complicate matters for you if you are not up-to-date with the latest changes.
 	By hiring a lawyer. If you don’t feel confident in doing the application yourself, you can hire a lawyer to help. If you want the job done right or already have a lawyer familiar with your case, this may be a good option for you. However, the drawback is, unlike doing the application by yourself, you will be paying more for the services of a good lawyer.  
 	By hiring a pardon services agency. If you still want someone else to do the application and don’t have money for a lawyer, you can request the services of a less expensive Canadian pardon service provider. However, they may not be as familiar with any nuances of your case. 
How Likely Will My Pardon Application Succeed?
If you have waited the requisite five or 10 years after the sentence was imposed and completed, if you have all of the supporting documents and if you have no further criminal charges or convictions, the federal government will probably issue you a record suspension. However, your application will not be successful if:
 	You committed a sexual offense against a minor.
 	You had more than three convictions that added up to more than two years of prison. 
 	You are not forthcoming with your past involvement with the police and the courts, such as not paying any outstanding fines or if you have a recent charge. 
If your application is turned down, you will have to wait one year before you can apply again. 
How Long Will It Take to Process My Pardon Application? 
It can take anywhere from a year or two for a record suspension to be processed and granted. Be aware, though, that you also have to spend time collecting police and court documents for your application. Getting those documents together can take an average of three to 10 months. This means that it’s a particularly good idea to start collecting your documents well in advance of your eligibility date. 
What Will Happen to My Criminal Record After I Have Been Granted a Pardon?
If you have been granted a record suspension, the records of a pardoned or suspended offense will be kept separate and apart by the RCMP. That information will not be disclosed without approval from the Minister of Public Safety – and that rarely happens. Almost all municipal and provincial police agencies will also not disclose your criminal record unless you have a prohibition order or are in the sex offender registry. 
Basically, if you have been pardoned, it is like the crime never happened. In the case of obtaining employment, employers can only ask if you have been convicted of a crime for which a pardon was not granted. 
Contact Us
Ordinarily we would ask you to contact us but we think it makes the most sense to try to complete the documents yourself.
If you still want to talk to a lawyer about getting a pardon, Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private consultation. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting today, and find out if hiring a lawyer is the right choice for you when it comes to getting a pardon application together.

### Is There a Benefit to Post -Charge Diversion?
Is There a Benefit to Post-Charge Diversion?
Yes. A post-charge diversion is a process where Crown prosecutors decide to put those who have committed a minor criminal offence into a diversion program where, upon successful completion, the charge will be withdrawn, stayed or avoided altogether. This allows those charged with minor offensives to prevent having charges that lead to a finding of guilt – eliminating the possibility of having a criminal record. If this is the case for you, you also can benefit from eliminating the costs revolving around pleading guilty or going to trial. 
Sometimes, the prosecutor will issue a warning or caution or refer you to a rehabilitation program to help avoid committing another offence in exchange for withdrawing the charge. Diversion is seen as “restorative justice”, allowing you to participate in a program that benefits your community and your existence within the community. It allows you to take some responsibility for the offence without officially admitting your guilt and prevent yourself from having a criminal record. Diversion is an alternative to prosecution for the Crown since not all crimes are worthy of a guilty plea or trial proceedings that overload the criminal justice system. 
How Will I Be Eligible?
It depends. The Crown is responsible for examining the facts of a case and will determine eligibility. They will screen your case against you and your criminal record to assess your eligibility, and only the Crown – not a judge or justice of the peace – can assess your eligibility. Essentially, the Crown must consent to you being placed in a diversion program. 
Only individuals who have been accused of a minor offence will be eligible for diversion. However, a number of factors can aggravate the nature of the offence. Typically, your chances of being placed in a diversion program will be higher if you have no prior criminal record or have never been offered diversion in the past. You may, however, be ineligible if you have a police record without a charge being laid for a similar offence.
What Is a Minor Offence?
Examples of “minor offences” may include:
 	Shoplifting.
 	Minor fraud charges involving a small amount of money.
 	Mischief that causes minor property damage.
 	Causing a disturbance.
 	Until Canadian drug laws change, possessing a small amount of marijuana for personal recreational use.
The terms of participation for diversion are specific to the facts of the offence. In the end, it’s really up to the Crown prosecutors to decide if you qualify for diversion. However, you can hire a criminal defence lawyer to help you make the case to the Crown that you should be placed in a diversion program.  
What are Examples of Diversion? 
Every courthouse has a different diversion program, but can include:
 	Mental health diversion.
 	Extrajudicial sanctions (for young offenders).
 	Special classes where you will be educated about the consequences and effects of your offence.
 	Informal diversion programs, such as performing community service, making a charitable donation, or writing an apology letter or short essay about your offence. 
What’s the Difference Between the Charge Being Withdrawn or Stayed? 
After diversion has been completed, the charge will be withdrawn or stayed. It is better to have the charge withdrawn. If it is stayed, the charge can be resurrected for up to one year of the day that it was stayed. If you commit a new offence within that timeframe, the Crown can reopen the charge and try you for it. If the charge is withdrawn, however, the charge cannot be prosecuted again and it will be never brought back against you. 
Will a Diversion Still Be on My Criminal Record? 
While you will not have a criminal record or finding of guilt, a police record of the charge will still be in the federal Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database and at the issuing police force. This applies whether the charge is stayed or withdrawn.  
You can, however, apply to have your police record, photographs, and fingerprints withdrawn from the CPIC database. You can also ask the police force that made the charge to purge your record, too. In either case, you may or may not be successful at removing the record – it’s really up to the police force. 
Contact Us
If you’ve been charged with a minor offence and want to know if post-charge diversion is an option for you, Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private consultation. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting.

### I Was Charged with Mischief. Do I Need a Lawyer?
I Was Charged with Mischief. Do I Need a Lawyer?
The answer is you should hire a lawyer. A criminal conviction, even for something as minor as mischief under $5,000, could impact you in the future. A conviction for mischief, like any other offence, means that you could:
 	Lose your job.
 	Have trouble finding further work.
 	Face fines, probation and, in some cases, jail time.
 	Have issues getting citizenship or permanent residence in Canada, if you are from another country.
 	Have problems travelling to other countries.
As you can see, there are a few implications that can impact your life with a mischief conviction. By hiring a criminal defence lawyer, you’re going to be in a better position to have your case wrapped up faster and with a positive outcome for you. 
Your defence lawyer can also speak to the Crown and negotiate on your behalf for a resolution where the charge is dropped – instead of getting a criminal record and probationary sentence. If you don’t have a lawyer, you could be convicted when you may have actually had a legitimate legal defence that your lawyer is familiar with. For instance, the lawyer could demonstrate that although you owned an item that you destroyed (which could  trigger a mischief charge), you weren’t out to defraud someone. 
Remember, too, that if you have aggravating circumstances, or a previous criminal conviction, you are at greater risk of being sentenced to jail time– yes, even on a mischief charge. The risk is minor, particularly for first-time offenders in mischief under $5,000 cases, but it remains. It’s all up to the judge. 
Okay, But Are There Some Things That I Can Do On My Own?
You will have to get photographs and fingerprints taken, and a lawyer is not required for this. You will get the date and location of where to do this on a Form 9, Notice to Appear, that you’ll receive after you’ve been charged. 
Be sure that you attend this date. If you don’t, you could face more charges and negatively impact the original charge of mischief in court. It doesn’t matter how minor the offense is or how innocent you are. If you’ve been charged, make absolutely sure that you don’t miss your fingerprint and photograph date. The good news is that if you are acquitted or the charge is dropped, you can apply to have your fingerprints and photographs destroyed. 
Contact Us
If you’ve been charged with mischief under $5,000 and still are unsure if you need a lawyer, the great news is that Armoured Suits offers a complimentary 30-minute private consultation. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to book your meeting today, and find out if hiring a lawyer is the right choice for you.

### What You Need to Know About Being a Surety – FAQs
What is a surety?
A surety is someone who promises a judge or justice of the peace in court that they will look after someone who is accused of a crime while they are out on bail.
This person also pledges or promises to pay money to the court through a bond. There are bonds where you’ll have to deposit money right way and some without that condition. The surety can lose some or all of the money they have promised to the court if the accused doesn’t: 
 	Follow one or more of their bail conditions.
 	Appear in court when asked to.
It is important to note that the accused person needs to be found guilty on the breach before money is owed. For more information, please read the section What happens if the accused person fails to obey their bail conditions? What happens to the recognizance?
Who can act as a surety?
A surety is an adult Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Most times, sureties don’t have a criminal record, but you can still be a surety if the criminal record is:
 	For a minor offense.
 	Somewhat old. 
As a surety, you will need to show the court that you have enough money or assets to cover bail. Assets can include: 
 	Real estate that you own.
 	Bank accounts. 
 	Investments. 
You cannot be the accused’s surety if you are the alleged victim of his or her offense. 
What are the responsibilities of a surety? 
You will need to make sure the accused person: 
 	Is in court on time and on the right dates.
 	Obeys each of the bail order’s conditions – known as a recognizance. (If the accused fails to follow these conditions, you will have to pay money to the court as the surety.) 
 	Follows other conditions, such as reporting to the police, obeying curfews, not possessing weapons, not drinking alcohol, and not communicating directly or indirectly with the victim or their family. (This last condition would mean that you as the surety cannot contact the victim or victim’s family on the behalf of the accused, either.)
You also must sign the recognizance, meaning that you will pay a specific amount of money if the accused person fails to obey a court order. You can avoid paying this bond if you call the police when you become aware of any conditions breaches. 
I have been asked to act as a surety. Should I seek legal advice before agreeing?
If you have any doubts about being a surety or need to know exactly what being a surety involves, you should seek independent legal advice to understand what the commitment to being a surety really means.  
I agreed to act as a surety and am being asked to "demonstrate affordability". What documentation must I provide? 
Bring any of the following to the accused’s bail hearing to show that you have enough money to cover being a surety:
 	Your recent bank account, retirement savings plan or guaranteed investment certificate statements.
 	Documents showing the value of your home and mortgage.
 	Recent income stubs or your last tax assessment. 
If I act as a surety, do I have any legal control over the case? 
You cannot give any legal advice regarding the case at all and you don’t have any say in the ultimate result of the case. You can, however, place additional restrictions on the accused’s behaviour while you are supervising them. 
Why do I have to sign a Surety Caution? 
You may be asked to sign a Surety Caution, which is a document that shows you understand all of your responsibilities and obligations, to show that you are aware of what you need to do as a surety. 
Can a surety be asked to testify in court? 
Yes. You might be asked to testify in court about how well you are supervising the accused. If this happens, any of the following people may ask you questions:
 	The accused’s lawyer (or duty counsel).
 	The Crown prosecutor. 
 	The judge or justice of the peace.
Can I be paid to act as a surety? 
If you do not have enough money to cover being a surety, don’t be a surety. Don’t accept a funds transfer from anyone solely to show the court that you can cover the recognizance. If you do, both you and the person sending you funds might be charged with obstruction of justice. Accepting a fee or being paid in return to act as a surety is a criminal offense. 
If I act as a surety, do I need to supervise the accused person at all times?
Yes, you do. According to Legal Aid Ontario, “you are the accused’s ‘jailer in the community’ in the eyes of the court and you are required to enforce the bail conditions.”
However, you can propose having another surety act with you if you don’t think you can monitor the accused on your own. 
Can an accused person have more than one surety? 
Yes, you can propose another person to help you act as a surety if you think: 
 	You cannot look after the accused in the community on your own.
 	You might not be able to afford the recognizance.
Are there set recognizance amounts a surety is expected to pledge to the court?
No. While the court will set an amount that is within your means to afford, the amount will also reflect the nature and the seriousness of the accused’s offence. 
What happens if the accused person fails to obey their bail conditions? What happens to the recognizance?
The accused can be criminally charged with breaching their conditions. The Crown may also apply to revoke their bail and seek payment. 
If the accused is charged, and either pleads guilty or is found guilty of breaking their bail conditions or not appearing in court, you may be asked by the Crown to pay the recognizance. If the Crown does this, a hearing will be held. You will get a chance to explain why you shouldn’t have to pay the money to the court. The hearing is called estreatment. At the end of the hearing, a judge will decide if you have to pay all, some or none of the promised money. 
If the surety agrees to pay a cash deposit, how and when is this money returned? 
Sometimes, in addition to the surety having to promise to pay a recognizance, the accused might be asked to deposit a sum of cash to the court. 
When there has been a cash deposit made by the accused person, or by the surety on behalf of the accused, that money is returned to the accused person at the end of the case. It is not returned to the surety. 
How long do I have to act as a surety? 
Your responsibilities will continue until the court case is over. That can be a very long time in some instances – it can take sometimes years for a case to be finished – so be sure you know what you are signing up for. Don’t be a surety if you are not sure you can supervise the accused in the community throughout the entire court case. 
I agreed to act as a surety, but would like to stop. Can I be removed as a surety? 
If you are no longer willing or able to supervise the accused person, you can do one of two things: 
 	You may bring the accused to court in person and ask to be relieved of your responsibilities, or
 	You may present yourself to the court on any given day and ask to be relieved, regardless of whether the accused is present. The court will then issue an arrest order for the accused. 
You should call the police if you think the accused is a threat to your safety. Go with the second option just listed if the threat is less imminent. Once the court order is issued, the police can arrest the accused and end your obligations. 
 

### What Is Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking?
It’s fairly common to hear or read a new story in the media about somebody being charged for possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P) drugs, especially if they were particularly creative in how they tried to get away with it. 
Recently, an Ottawa man was stopped at the Canada-U.S. border trying to come back to Canada with drugs and a weapon. In Cape Breton, police searched vehicles and homes and charged a number of people with possession for the purpose of trafficking.
But you may say to yourself, well, these people had drugs and how were the police so sure that they were being trafficked?  The answer is that, depending on the drug (controlled substance) in one’s possession, there’s a threshold for possessing a certain amount of that drug that will trigger a possession for the purpose of trafficking charge. It doesn’t matter if you did intend to sell the drugs or not. Just having a certain amount is all the police need.
How Much Is Too Much?
It depends on the drug and how much you have in your possession. If you have 10 grams of crack cocaine, you might get a P4P charge. On the other hand, 30 grams or more of marijuana will trigger the same charge. Why are there different thresholds? It really depends on the drug’s perceived harm to society and also how much more money you can make in its distribution. Plus, the more harmful the drug is perceived to be, the harsher the penalty will be. And larger quantities of the drug in your possession will typically lead to harsher penalties, too.
How Will the Police Know I Have Drugs, Anyhow?
As the news articles mentioned earlier can attest, police will usually discover the drugs in your possession while carrying out regular duties like routine traffic stops and border crossing interviews. 
Usually, this offense arises as a result of another valid investigation, as these articles also mention. In another example, police might also find drugs in your home if they are called to investigate a domestic dispute. If the drugs are in plain sight while people are investigating the domestic dispute, then they can charge you with P4P if there’s enough of the substance in your home.
Other times, police may find the drugs at a suspected drug trafficker’s home, in which they have a search warrant to investigate the premises. In this example, the trafficker is not caught in the act of selling the drugs, but police will find them hidden somewhere in the home. The drugs or substance will be seized, weighed and tested to find out if it’s a scheduled substance or illegal drug. 
Police will also search and seize other items that may indicate you are trafficking drugs – other than the drugs themselves. Including items such as weighing scales, bags, debt lists, quantities of cash and other substances used to dilute drugs or make more of them. Weapons may also be seized as evidence pointing to trafficking behaviour in the home as well.
For More Information
Click link for detailed overview about Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking
If you’ve been charged with a P4P offence, contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-minute confidential consultation.

### Toss out Ottawa teen's lengthy case over fake 911 calls, Joshua Clarke to Argue
In the case of the 18-year-old teen accused of calling in fake emergencies, Ottawa lawyer Joshua Clarke is set to argue his client's constitutional rights to a speedy trial have been violated. The accused, who was 16 years old at the time of arrest, is now 18 and has waited more than 30 months for a decision in his case.
For more information regarding the trial and the latest developing story, please visit >> https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/lengthy-ottawa-teen-swatting-case-1.3950565

### What Offences Are Similar to Breaking and Entering?
A common question that arises is what determines a charge of breaking and entering?  And is often followed up by the question – What offences are similar to that? Before answering these, it’s worth looking at what breaking and entering actually is in Canadian law. 
Breaking and entering is when you trespass or attempt to trespass on private property with the intent to commit an indictable, or serious, offense. Typically, this is where you break into a retailer or private home to steal property, but can also include breaking into a vehicle such as a trailer or a pen that holds fur-bearing animals for breeding or commercial purposes. The evidence in these cases is usually circumstantial, so Crown prosecutors will try to establish your identity and guilt as the person who committed the crime by being found with the stolen item or items in your possession some time later.  
Breaking and entering a residential dwelling is punishable by up to life in prison. (However, some provinces have sent a benchmark on breaking and entering at three years.) If you break and enter a premise other than a residential home, you can get up to 10 years in jail as an indictable offence and six month on a less serious summary offence. 
However, other mitigating factors determine the sentencing for a break and enter. If the offence is not serious – that it, it was a single incident, the value of what was stolen was minimal and the property was recovered, the Crown will still seek incarceration time but ultimately your sentence is up to the judge.  On the other hand, if there were multiple incidents, then facing jail time might be more likely. 
What Is a Home Invasion? 
A home invasion is not a crime, however it is an aggravating factor on sentencing for an B & E.   To be considered a home invasion, a person will have broken into a home knowing that there were people present inside the house, or were completely reckless about the possibility of people inside, and were prepared to use force against them with violence or the threat of violence. In some cases, a weapon such as a gun or knife will have been used.  
In a home invasion, robbery might not be the end game. Crimes committed in the home may include other violent offences, such as assault, sexual assault or unlawful confinement. Penalties for a home invasion vary from province to province and tend to be significant.
Other Forms of Break and Enter
A much less frequent form of a break and enter is when you go onto private property to confront someone with the intent to assault them or threaten them with violence. Usually, you and this other person will have known each other, and the break and enter has arisen from some kind of argument. These incidents can be domestic in nature (such as between an estranged husband and wife). 
Forcible entry is another type of break and enter. In forcible entry, you will have entered another property, perhaps as a landlord, that is the possession of another, perhaps someone who is a tenant, causing or likely to cause some kind of trouble, known in legal terms as a breach of the peace. It doesn’t matter if you have the right to enter that property or you intend to take possession of that property. You then take possession of that property, knowing that the person who possesses it will raise a ruckus. 
If you also enter a home with the intent to commit an indictable, or serious, offence, you also may be charged with being unlawfully in a dwelling. 
There are other forms of B & E too, such as breaking and entering a home to steal (or having the intent to steal) a firearm. This is considered to be a serious offence, as the maximum punishment is life in prison. 
Have You Been Charged with a form of Break and Enter?
If you’ve been charged with breaking and entering or a related offence, contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-min confidential consultation.
 

### What Are the New Penalties for Drug Impaired Driving in Ontario?
What Are the New Penalties for Drug Impaired Driving in Ontario?
In Ontario, it used to be that the penalties for driving under the influence of drugs were less harsh than those for drunk driving. No longer. At the start of October, Ontario brought in tough new penalties for those driving under the influence of drugs. 
Under the new law, drivers who are caught driving under the influence of drugs – either street or prescription drugs – will have their driver’s licence suspended. That move brings drug impairment laws in line with drunk driving laws. 
The New Law
Those caught driving under the influence of drugs now face a $180 fine. Your license will be suspended for:
 	Three days for the first offense.
 	Seven days for the second offense.
 	Thirty days for the third and subsequent offenses. 
If you are tested by a drug recognition expert at a police station and drugs are found in your system, your license might be further suspended for 90 days and your vehicle impounded for seven days. You may be subjected to a urine test. Failure to comply with this kind of testing is a criminal offense whose penalties range from $1,000 to $5,000 in fines and 30 days to 18 months in jail.
If you have two or more licence suspensions involving drugs or alcohol within a 10-year period, you will now have to take mandatory education or treatment programs. Your vehicle will also have an ignition interlock device installed. 
As always, impaired driving of any kind can lead to criminal charges. This could result in the loss of your driver’s licence, fines and jail time. 
As with alcohol, a police officer’s roadside tests gauges your drug impairment. Because drugs can’t be found through Breathalyser tests, you simply have to appear impaired for these new penalties and impaired driving laws to apply to you. 
Impaired Driving Is Not Limited to Cars and Trucks
Remember that drug impaired driving is not just limited to cars and trucks. ATVs, boats, snowmobiles and aircrafts are vehicles, too. You can be charged with impaired driving even if your vehicle is not moving. 
Why has there been a new push on drug impaired driving? According to Toronto police, drug impaired driving charges have jumped three-fold since last year. The Office of the Chief Coroner reports that almost two in five of drivers killed on Ontario roads in 2013 had either drugs or a combination of drugs and alcohol in their bloodstream. Toronto police say they believe that some drivers are switching to drugs rather than alcohol before getting behind the wheel because some believe that drugs are harder to detect.  
No figures that were Ottawa-specific could be found. A 2014 Ottawa Sun article, however, notes that drug impaired driving is on the rise nationwide. It’s not just marijuana. Depressants and opiates, such as the painkiller Oxycodone, are having an impact on drivers, according to police.  
Have You Been Charged with Drug Impaired Driving? 
If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-min confidential consultation.

### Is Witchcraft a Crime in Canada?
Halloween is just around the corner, and lots of ghouls and goblins will be out on the streets collecting candy. However, if you’re planning to pretend to practice any witchcraft on that date, our best legal advice to you is … don’t. Believe it or not, you can be charged with pretending to practice witchcraft. Yes, fellow Harry Potters, pretending to practice witchcraft is a crime in Canada. And we’re not kidding.
Witchcraft is dealt with in Section 365 of Canada’s Criminal Code. It states that you are guilty of a summary offense – a minor crime – if you “fraudulently” do any of the following (and we’re quoting the actual law here with some slight editing):
 	“Pretends to exercise or to use any kind of witchcraft, sorcery, enchantment or conjuration.
 	Undertakes, for a consideration, to tell fortunes.
 	Pretends from his skill in or knowledge of an occult or crafty science to discover where or in what manner anything that is supposed to have been stolen or lost may be found.”
Note the use of the word “pretends”. That means, if you really are a witch or sorcerer, and aren’t just fooling around, you might be off the hook. 
However, if you’re just pretending, you may be looking at up to a maximum of six months in prison. 
Obviously, we’re having a bit of fun here, and this is one of the laws in the Criminal Code that could be considered antiquated and well past its prime. (Another section dealing with duelling as a crime is still on the books, too.) 
Put it another way: your chances of being charged with witchcraft are terribly slim. One (albeit outdated) source even estimates that there are upwards of 10,000 practicing psychics in Canada. Prosecutions of those who are practicing psychics are rare.  
Prosecuting Modern Day Witches in Canada
Just because prosecutions are rare, though, doesn’t mean that the law doesn’t get dusted off by police from time to time. In recent years, Canadians have been charged under Section 365:
 	In 2012, a Toronto man was charged with falsely practicing witchcraft after he told a woman he could remove a family curse for $14,000. 
 	In 2010, a Brampton man was charged after taking money for witchcraft-related services at his home.
 	In 2009, a Toronto woman was charged after taking $27,000 from a grieving Toronto lawyer after claiming she was possessed by the spirit of his dead sister.
So it still happens today: people are charged with falsely practicing witchcraft. So, if you plan on dressing up like a witch this Halloween, better make sure you’ve brushed up on your spell book. After all, you don’t need the legal hassle of facing accusations of being a false witch!  But, if you do run into trouble call us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail criminal defence lawyer Joshua Clarke at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca

### What Is the Difference Between Joyriding and Motor Vehicle Theft?
When it comes to taking or stealing a vehicle, there are two types of “theft” in the Canadian Criminal Code. A “joyride”, which is not named as such in the Criminal Code and is a slang term, is when someone takes a vehicle such as a car or a boat and uses it without getting permission from the owner, but intends to return it. Theft is when someone takes a vehicle and uses it without permission, and does not intend to return it. According to one Canadian Web site, a vehicle can also cover hovercrafts. 
Usually, “joyriding” refers to when your son or daughter takes your car for a night out without asking first. However, the term can cover adults in other situations, too. 
What are the Consequences? 
Car theft is similar to theft over $5,000, except that the car’s value doesn’t need to be established for a trial to proceed. Anyone who steals or takes a motor vehicle without permission can be guilty of either an indictable offence or a summary conviction.
An indictable offence has a higher maximum punishment and the accused can have a jury trial. A summary conviction goes through the legal system faster without a trial with consequences that are not quite as serious. 
Under the Criminal Code, if you steal a vehicle and are guilty of an indictable offence, the maximum penalty is 10 years in prison. A summary conviction for the same crime will lead to, at most, 18 months in jail. 
What if I Was a Passenger? Can I Be Charged and Found Guilty, Too? 
Yes, if you knew that the car was stolen or borrowed without permission during a “joyride”. If you didn’t know, you probably won’t be found guilty. 
You also are not likely to be found guilty if you found out the car was stolen or borrowed without permission and reasonably tried to leave the car after you found out. 
I’ve Been Charged! What Do I Next? 
If you’ve been charged with one of these crimes, contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-min confidential consultation.  

### Who is Considered a Youth in the Criminal Justice System?
There may be a fair amount of misconception out there when it comes to youth crimes and how old you have to be before you are charged as a youth or charged as an adult. Part of that has to do with the fact that the laws have changed a few times in recent years: once in 1984 and again in 2003, with some additional minor changes to the law in 2012.
Essentially, the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which has been around since 2003, is now the law for Canada’s youth justice system. In order to be charged with a crime under this Act, you have to be between 12 and 17 years old. 
If you are less than 12 years old, you cannot be charged with a crime. You would be considered to be a child, or of an age where you don’t know the difference between right and wrong.  The provincial government’s child protection ministries or agencies will deal with these youth instead.
If you are 18 or older, then you are considered to be an adult, and can be charged and sentenced as an adult. The Youth Criminal Justice Act no longer applies. 
However, some people may still think that if a youth commits a serious crime, such as murder or aggravated sexual assault, they may be transferred to adult court. If then convicted, some believe he or she would automatically receive an adult sentence. That was the way under the old youth justice system covered by the Young Offenders Act, which was law from 1984 to 2003. This way of charging youth for serious crimes was complex, caused backlogs and delays, and wasn’t particularly fair, as it assumed the youth was guilty of the crime before being transferred to adult court.  
Today, all youth cases – regardless of severity – are heard in youth court, where the youth’s guilt is proved or disproved. If the youth is found guilty of a serious crime, then the youth court can impose an adult sentence. In order to get an adult sentence under the Act, the youth: 
	Has to be at least 14 years old (with some possible exceptions that will be discussed in a moment).
	Must have committed a crime whose punishment as an adult would be more than two years in jail. 
A few things changed with the Youth Criminal Justice Act in 2012, though:
	If a youth is 14 or older and is charged with a serious violent offense, it’s up to the Crown to apply for an adult sentence. If they don’t apply for an adult sentence, they must tell the court. Each province can move the age where the Crown must tell the court it is applying for an adult sentence or not from 14 to 15 or 16.
	A court will only put in place an adult sentence if the Crown can essentially prove that the young person knew what he or she was doing despite their young age – since the Act assumes that young people have a diminished maturity and ability to know right from wrong – and that a youth sentence wouldn’t be long enough to hold the youth accountable for their actions. 
	If a young person under the age of 18 gets an adult sentence, they can be placed in a youth detention facility. When they turn 18, they may be then moved to an adult jail. 
But, despite all of this talk about jail time and adult sentences, the whole point of the Youth Criminal Justice Act is to actually provide recourses to keep youths out of jail while still protecting the public – at least, in the case of less serious offenses. 
In 1999, 63 percent of youths accused of a crime were charged. In 2010, under the new law, 42 percent of youths accused of a crime were charged. Most times, these days, police take measures such as issuing warnings and cautions to keep youth who would have been charged for offenses that weren’t so serious, such as shoplifting, out of the courts. 
For more information and more statistics, please consult the Department of Justice’s Web site on the Youth Criminal Justice Act.   If you, or your loved one has been charged with a crime, or have questions about the Youth Criminal Justice Act please feel free to contact our office at 613-233-0008 for a free, no-obligation 30 minute consultation.

### Can I Access Ontario Court Documents?
Can I Access Ontario Court Documents?
You can access Ontario court documents in most cases as many court documents are available to the public, such as: 
	Any current list the court of civil proceedings commenced maintains;
	Any documents filed in a civil proceeding;
	Any judgments entered, unless a statutory provision, common law rule or court order restricts access.
Public access to criminal court cases is also restricted when:
	Someone has been pardoned;
	Someone received an absolute or conditional discharge;
	The documents have been sealed due to a court order.
You can, however, get access to documents that are covered by a publication ban. However, you must not publically share the contents of these documents. 
If the document pertains to a court case you were involved in, you can obtain the judgement once it has been issued in your case. You can get this from your lawyer or from the court office. You will have to pay a photocopy fee if you wish to make a copy of the judgement from the court file. 
If the case does not directly involve you, however, you may have to pay an access fee to view these files. However, there is no fee to access criminal case court documents in the Ontario Court of Justice and Superior Court of Justice. There are also no fees for:
	The Family Court branch of the Superior Court of Justice; or 
	Family cases heard by the Superior Court of Justice that are not appeals. 
You will have to pay a fee to view files from the Court of Appeal for Ontario and civil cases in the Superior Court of Justice.
If you want photocopies of documents or an audio file of a day’s hearing, you will have to pay fees.
You can see how much you will have to pay in access and copy fees by visiting the Ontario Attorney General Web site. 
Your access may be hampered if the court documents you want are older than three years. Post court dockets may be destroyed after three years.
While there is no central database for Ontario court documents, you can look for some judgements at all levels of Ontario court through the Canadian Legal Information Institute. Most Ontario Court of Appeal decisions can be found online through the Ontario Court of Appeal.
For information on youth court records and who can view them, please consult the Justice for Children and Youth website.

### Can Serving the Wrong Food to Someone With a Food Allergy Get Me Into Legal Trouble?
There’s an unusual case that’s been all over the media recently about a Quebec waiter who served the wrong food to someone with a food allergy. Police have recommended a charge of criminal negligence be brought forth against the waiter. Is simply making a mistake when serving food enough to get one into trouble with the law? Let’s look at the case more carefully.
The incident happened at a Sherbrooke restaurant where a waiter accidentally served salmon tartare to a customer who was allergic to both seafood and salmon. The customer had ordered beef tartare and told the waiter numerous times about his food allergy. When the salmon tartare came to his table, the customer took a bite. He was unaware of what he was about to bite into because the restaurant’s lighting was dim.
Due to the food mixup, the customer eventually was hospitalized for several weeks and fell into a coma for two days. He also suffered from cardiac arrest.
Did the Waiter Break the Law?
Quebec police are recommending the charge of criminal negligence be brought against the waiter because the Criminal Code allows for an arrest where there is “wanton or reckless disregard of the lives or safety of other persons.” Criminal negligence is used when bodily harm or death is caused to someone under this legal definition in the Criminal Code.
In the case, one half of the charge could be argued as warranted because the customer fell into a coma, which would constitute bodily harm. Under that definition, the waiter – if found guilty of criminal negligence – could be sentenced for to up to 10 years in prison. (If the customer had died, the sentence would be a maximum of life imprisonment.)
But did the waiter show wanton or reckless disregard to his customer?
On one hand, the waiter – if he was the person who brought the food to the customer — could be found not guilty because chances are that if the customer didn’t know he was being served fish due to the lighting, the waiter perhaps reasonably didn’t know it as well for the same reason. However, if the waiter had been aware that it was fish being served and served it anyway while knowing about the customer’s food allergy, he then might be found guilty if the case made it to court.
What is also problematic for the waiter is that he allegedly didn’t take any notes. The customer told the waiter time and time again about the allergy to make sure there wouldn’t be any food cross-contamination in the kitchen. It is quite possible that the waiter didn’t take these warnings seriously, or forgot about them, which could again lead to legal problems for him.
Why? It could be argued that the waiter showed wanton or reckless disregard for his customer’s safety and life by not taking notes or the appropriate measures to ensure the food order wouldn’t be presumably mixed up. The Criminal Code says criminal negligence happens when someone has “omit[ted] to do anything that it is his duty to do.”
But What If the Wrong Order Was Placed?
This case hasn’t gone before the courts, so a lot of this might be conjecture, but there are other factors to consider in this scenario – ones that could completely exonerate the waiter. For instance, it could be possible that the customer placed the wrong order to begin with. What we also don’t know is if the waiter informed the kitchen staff of the food allergy. If he did, did the kitchen take appropriate measures to ensure the right order was placed? Also to his defence, the waiter might be able to claim that he didn’t receive proper training in dealing with customers with food allergies. So there’s a lot we don’t know that could leave the waiter off the hook.
Plus, the customer alas has to claim some responsibility for his medical condition. He had left his EpiPen in his car before entering a restaurant with seafood on the menu. It could be argued that he would have never slipped into a coma or had heart trouble if he had his EpiPen on him before going into a restaurant, which would be a risky endeavour to begin with, knowing his food allergy.
It’ll be interesting to see if the case makes it to court. However, most legal observers think it won’t, simply because the customer had to be in a completely vulnerable position for someone to be criminally negligent against him. It would be criminal negligence if he was a patient in need of a leg amputation and a doctor amputated the wrong leg while being completely helpless to the treatment. Directly walking into a restaurant that had food on the menu that he was allergic to for a bite to eat? Perhaps not so much.
If your legal problem is just as fishy as this one, we can help with your criminal defence. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free, confidential consultation.
 
UPDATE: September 13, 2016 – Waiter’s Actions Did Not Meet Legal Requirement for Criminal Negligence
The 22-year-old Québec waiter who served salmon tartare to a customer with a severe food allergy will not be charged with criminal negligence.
In speaking with the media, René Verret, spokesman for Québec’s Crown prosecutors’ office, said “There was no criminal offence in what the young man did”.
The case, which drew worldwide media attention, highlights the challenges and seriousness of food allergies and the associated risk of anaphylaxis shock. Food allergy organizations are pointing to this case as an opportunity to review food handling protocols in the service industry.

### Travelling to the U.S.A. With a Criminal Record
You know the United States takes admitting people into their country, even for short visits, very seriously when one presidential candidate talks about building a wall around the country to help keep undesirables out.
Indeed, there are many reasons why you might be not allowed into the U.S.
Some of the most common include:
Having a communicable disease.
Having a criminal record for a “crime of moral turpitude” (more on this later) if you are 18 or older.
Having been convicted of possessing or trafficking drugs.
Having been involved in terrorism or terrorist groups.
Having been involved in money laundering.
Having been removed or deported from the U.S. in the past.
Having overstayed a period of admission to the U.S. in the past.
Not having  enough money to travel due to limited financial resources.
What is a “Crime of Moral Turpitude”
A “crime of moral turpitude” is reason enough to keep you out of the U.S., but what is it? To be honest, this term is quite vague. It means “conduct that is considered contrary to community standards of justice, honesty or good morals.” What kind of conduct and what community standards is usually up to the discretion of the border officer.
Therefore, a “crime of moral turpitude” can cover a lot of things, but can also exclude a few things as well. There are a number of crimes that can be considered to be “crimes of moral turpitude”  including, but not limited to:
Murder.
Manslaughter.
Rape.
Theft.
Bribery.
Forgery.
Aggravated battery.
Prostitution.
Fraud.
A more complete list of crimes that can make you ineligible for entry to the U.S. can be found on the U.S. Department of State website. As a side note, drug offenses will make you inadmissible to the U.S.
However, muddying the waters is the fact that some crimes are not considered “crimes of moral turpitude”. Unless you have multiple convictions, have been convicted of other crimes that are considered to be lesser (misdemeanors), or the crime was recent, you will be allowed entry into the U.S. if you have a single charge of:
Driving under the influence (drunk driving).
Breaking and entering.
Disorderly conduct.
Simple assault.
To confuse matters further, you can be sometimes be admitted to the U.S. even if you have committed a crime of moral turpitude! This is so long as:
The crime was committed when you were less than 18 years old, and the crime was committed more than five years ago; or
You were imprisoned for less than six months for the crime, and the maximum penalty that was possible for you to have been convicted of for this crime was no more than one year of imprisonment.
How Do I Enter the U.S. Having Committed a “Crime of Moral Turpitude”?
So long as you haven’t committed a terrorism offense, in which can you will not be allowed entry under any circumstance, you can apply for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility if you’ve committed a crime of moral turpitude that would keep you out of the U.S. This will allow you to enter the U.S. for a period of up to five years, even if you are considered to be inadmissible.
The thing is, it can take up to a year for you to apply for the waiver as the waiting period is lengthy. The waiver is only good for a short period of only one, two or five years, depending on various factors. Plus, it’s costly: It is currently $585, payable in U.S. funds.
Applying for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility is a tricky process due to all of the legal documents that must accompany the application.
To avoid having to file for waivers, have the right legal team on your side in the first place. Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail me for a free, confidential consultation.

### What is Involved in a Police or Criminal Records Check?
There are times where you may be asked to submit to a police or criminal records background check. You may be asked to do so if you are:
 	Applying for a new job.
 	Applying to rent an apartment.
 	Planning to participate in some volunteer activities, particularly with children or vulnerable people such as the homeless or disabled.
 	Enrolling in some educational programs.
 	Obtaining a licence to practice some types of business or certain professions. 
There are all kinds of information about you in police databases. Any time that you had an interaction with the police, even if you just made a complaint, you will have information stored about you on file. Usually, the police will give out information only about criminal convictions, but may provide other information that they feel is relevant to the request as well. They can get this information from other police services, too, including from those in the United States.
There is some information the police cannot provide to a potential employer. This includes any information about your:
 	Race.
 	Ancestry.
 	Place of origin.
 	Ethnic origin.
 	Citizenship.
 	Creed.
 	Sex.
 	Sexual orientation or same-sex partnership status.
 	Age.
 	Marital status.
 	Family status.
 	Addictions to drugs and alcohol.
 	Disability, such as a mental or physical illness.  
You can get police or criminal records check forms from your local police force. Usually, you have to submit the form in person at the police station nearest you. However, sometimes your employer will submit your application on your behalf. The police will also want to see documents that prove your identity, such as a driver’s licence or other official documents.
In Ottawa, costs vary on police and criminal background checks depending on your needs. Most times, you as the applicant will have to pay the fee, but sometimes an employer may pay for it. A few volunteer organizations have agreements with the police to dismiss the fee as well.
To find out how much this will cost you as well as other information, such as processing times, please consult the Ottawa Police Service Web site. 
Once you have your police or criminal records file, you may also want to make changes to it. The police are only human, after all, and there’s the possibility that some information may be wrong or not complete, or includes embarrassing information that, say, isn’t relevant to you getting a job. You can also write to the police to have information removed or “expunged” permanently – for instance, if you were charged for a crime but were never convicted.
Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613.233.0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-min confidential consultation!

### Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm Regulations and Weapon Possession in Canada
Many people choose to keep firearms and other weapons in their possession for a number of reasons, including to use for hunting or self-defence. Fortunately for these people, Canadian gun law is relatively flexible and lenient. However, a negative side effect of this flexibility is that some Canadians are left with many unanswered questions about laws relating to firearm regulations and weapon possession. If you want to learn more about weapon possession regulations, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
What are the three classes for firearms in Canada?
In Canada, the three classes of firearms are non-restricted, restricted, and prohibited. Rifles and shotguns are non-restricted firearms, but there are a few exceptions. Restricted firearms include some handguns, rifles and shotguns with barrels shorter than 470 mm, and rifles and shotguns that are capable of firing after being reduced in length to less than 660 mm. Some examples of prohibited firearms are full automatics, converted automatics, and rifles and shotguns altered to have a barrel length that is less than 457 mm.
The main difference between the classes is that non-restricted firearms do not have to be registered while restricted and prohibited firearms do, according to the Firearms Act.
Is there a difference between licensing and registration?
A firearms license allows an individual to have a firearm in their possession. In order to obtain a firearms license, an individual must meet stringent requirements. Registration is only necessary for the ownership of restricted and prohibited firearms. The purpose of registration is to link a certain firearm to its owner for easy tracking, if necessary.
Is it too late for gun owners to apply for licensing or registration?
Individuals who own firearms yet aren't registered or licensed can apply for both without penalty. Law officials are willing to work with Canadian citizens to help them comply with the law. However, if peace officers find you in possession of a firearm without a license or registration, you can expect to face penalties. Therefore, it is better for you to take the initiative than the other way around.
What is the maximum number of cartridges that a firearm magazine can legally hold?
In general, the most a firearm magazine in your possession can legally hold is five cartridges. However, for most handgun magazines, 10 cartridges is the legal maximum. If you alter a large-capacity magazine so that it cannot hold more than five or 10 cartridges, it is not considered illegal to possess.
What is the sentence for not reporting lost firearms in Ontario?
In Canada, the failure to report a found firearm is considered a criminal offense. Individuals who are convicted of this may face up to five years in prison. While it is illegal for individuals to be in possession of a gun without registration or licensing, individuals are exempt from being convicted of this offense as long as they report the firearm or legally dispose of it in a reasonable period of time.
Are individuals who have been convicted of crimes in the past permitted to possess firearms?
According to the mandatory 109 Order, individuals who commit crimes involving violence, harassment, and weapon offenses shall be prohibited from possessing firearms, restricted weapons, crossbows, explosives, and ammo for a minimum of 10 years. These individuals will also be prohibited from possessing restricted weapons and firearms for life. In other situations, the 110 Order permits a judge to ban an individual from possessing firearms and weapons in interest of the safety of the public and the accused. S. 110 is discretionary for five years.
Due to the flexibility of gun law in Canada, residents can have many questions about firearm regulations and weapon possession. If you have a question that wasn’t answered above, please contact us »

### Common Myths and Misconceptions of the Insanity Defence
Due to a few high profile cases, most people are at least somewhat aware of the basics of the insanity defence. In general, the insanity defence refers to a plea that the defendant is not criminally responsible because they lacked the mental clarity or capacity to realize they committed a criminal act. Due to a number of factors, most people harbor misconceptions about the insanity defence.
Here are some of the more common of these myths and misconceptions.
1. People overuse the insanity defence.
Many people believe that the insanity defence is overused in Canadian law and justice. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. In actuality, the plea rate in Canada is less than 1% and only about a quarter of insanity defendants are actually successful, according to Statistics Canada. People may perceive the insanity defence to be overused because the media covers a disproportional number of cases involving the insanity defence.
2. Defendants who use the insanity defence are faking in most cases.
While there are certainly some instances in which a defendant has faked insanity in order to use the insanity defence, it is likely that the vast majority of defendants who use the insanity defence are legitimately lacking in mental capacity. The reality is that the vast majority of insanity defendants are diagnosed during psychiatric evaluation with a mental disorder. Many insanity defendants have experienced at least one mental hospitalization prior to the crime.
3. Defence attorneys plead insanity just to win a case.
A common misbelief is that defence attorneys lie and have their clients plead insanity just to win the case. However, the truth is that the concordance rate between court decisions and the opinions of professional psychiatrists is 93%.
4. The insanity defence is only applicable to violent crimes.
The cases involving the insanity defence that are covered the most by media involve violence. However, this in no way means that the insanity defence is exclusively used for violent crimes. In fact, about one-third of all insanity defendants were on trial for non-violent offenses
5. Criminals are found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Before, individuals could be found guilty by reason of insanity in Canadian court cases. Now, an individual can be deemed not criminally responsible on account of a mental disorder, according to the Department of Justice Canada. While being deemed not criminally responsible on account of a mental disorder does not mean immediate acquittal, it does give the individual an opportunity to receive mental illness treatment. It also contributes to the objective of treating the offender with dignity.
6. Trials involving the insanity defence always involve a battle between experts.
In reality, it is more common for experts to agree rather than to disagree when it comes to the insanity defence. In about four-fifths of examined cases, the mental health examiners involved agreed with each other on the primary diagnosis.
When does the insanity defence work?
In general, the insanity defence works best in cases in which the defendant had little control over their behavior because lack of mental capacity hindered them from being able to act according to behavior standards deemed acceptable by society, individuals who have been diagnosed with a serious mental disorder, or have been hospitalized in the past due to mental illness.
Sources:
http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/85-002-x/2015001/article/14226-eng.htm
http://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/rp-pr/csj-sjc/jsp-sjp/rr06_1/p1.html

### The Law of Consent in Canada
The Law of Consent in Canada
With the rendering of Gian Ghomesi’s sexual assault trial decision today it is an apt time to examine the law as it applies to consent.
The traditional definition of sexual consent is wrapped up in myth and stereotype. The concept often “denies women’s sexual autonomy and implies that women are in a state of constant consent to sexual activity.”1 However, the Canadian criminal justice system has sought to minimize the stigma around consent and provide a legal definition that clearly articulates the power of “no” and the responsibility to seek “yes.”
In the quest to correctly define the legal concept of consent, sexual assault cases have repeatedly found their way to the Supreme Court. In turn, the legislature has recalibrated the Criminal Code several times to address complex circumstances that may arise out of long term relationships, anger, jealously, intoxication and entitlement.
The standard by which consent is appraised is both objective and subjective. While the accused may point to his own perspective he cannot be willfully blind or reckless to the consequences of his actions.2 Given the contextual nature of any sexual assault accusation a careful weighing of legislation and case law is required. As such, each will be examined in turn so that a fulsome answer to “what establishes sexual consent?” may be provided.
The Criminal Code
The Criminal Code defines sexual assault as contact of a sexual nature, applied without consent.3 For the purpose of this section there is no consent when it is obtained by force, threat, fraud or authority.4
For further clarity the Criminal Code states that no consent is obtained when it is provided by someone other than the complainant, the accused is incapable of consent (for example, because of intoxication), the accused is abusing a position of power, the complainant expresses a lack of agreement or later revokes it.5
Based on these rules the court has an objective template by which to assess whether consent has been provided. If sexual contact is established and no consent is present a sexual assault has occurred. That is, unless the accused can avail himself of the defence of a reasonable mistaken belief of consent.6
The defence of reasonable mistaken belief may be raised if there is sufficient evidence to constitute the defence. There must be some indication that there were grounds for the accused to misunderstand whether the complainant had consented to contact. If the two parties merely disagree and there are no ambiguous facts the defence may not be raised.7
However, the accused may not raise this defence if his mistaken belief arose as a result of self-intoxication. Furthermore, he must take reasonable steps to ascertain that the complainant was consenting.8 This means he cannot be reckless or willfully blind to the complainant’s state of mind. It is his subjective belief that is in question; however, he must be able to point to objective circumstances that gave rise to his belief and the steps he took to come to his mistaken conclusion. It is not enough to merely shut one’s eyes to the facts and assume consent has been provided.
Case Law
The points of law above, including arguing consent itself, raising a mistaken belief of consent, willful blindness and reasonable steps taken to establish consent, have all been elucidated by the Supreme Court. Armed with the facts of each case it will become easier to understand their application.
Arguing Consent
In the case of R v Ewanchuk the question before the court came down to whether consent had been provided. Here, the complainant had entered the trailer of the accused, ostensibly to conduct a job interview. In the course of the interview Ewanchuk closed the door of the trailer and repeatedly touched the woman, eventually exposing himself. Each time he escalated the woman requested that he stop. However, she remained in the trailer. She stated this was out of fear for her safety. When she finally requested that she be allowed to leave Ewanchuk acquiesced and gave her money, asking that she tell no one of the situation.
The trial court ruled that this conduct constituted implied consent.9 On appeal the decision was harshly criticized by the Supreme Court. They ruled that there is no such thing as implied consent. She repeatedly rebuffed Ewanchuk’s advances. The accused replied that he was “not a bad guy” and would not persist if she said no, but did anyway. His words indicated he was aware that no consent was ever provided. It was not the victim’s responsibility to forcefully reject advances and escape. It was Ewanchuk’s responsibility to obtain consent; he never did.
Raising a Mistaken Belief of Consent
In Pappajohn v The Queen a man met with a realtor for lunch to discuss the sale of his home. They drank extensively throughout a three hour long lunch meeting. Afterwards, they travelled together to the accused home and spent several hours there together, alone. That evening the woman suddenly burst from his home, naked with her hands tightly bound behind her back, wearing only a men’s bowtie.
She claimed that she had been forcibly confined and raped for hours until she escaped. Pappajohn on the other hand claimed that the event was entirely consensual and he was surprised to find she had fled.
The complainant’s version excluded consent and any possible mistaken belief thereof. The appellant’s version claimed consent; it also had no indication that a mistaken belief could have occurred. “In this situation the only realistic issue which can arise is the simple issue of consent or no consent.”11 Nothing about the situation could possibly have raised confusion. One party was telling the truth and one was not. Therefore, Pappajohn was refused the right to raise a mistaken belief of consent.
Willful Blindness and Recklessness
In R v Sansregret however, the issue of mistaken belief was put to the jury in trial. The accused broke into the home of his ex-girlfriend in the middle of the night and held her at knife point for several hours. Out of fear for her safety she eventually encouraged sexual contact and implied that reconciliation may be possible. This was the second time this had occurred in the span of a month. Previously, she had called the police and reported his conduct, but no charges had been filed.
On appeal the Supreme Court again criticized the trial court decision. The justices ruled that reasonable mistaken belief was not possible as the victim was being held at knife point and had previously reported such conduct as rape. The accused demonstrated willful blindness when he chose to believe that the victim wanted to have sex with him.
The Supreme Court stated that “a court can properly find wilful blindness only where it can almost be said that the defendant actually knew. He suspected the fact; he realized its probability; but he refrained from obtaining the final confirmation because he wanted in the event to be able to deny knowledge. This and this alone, is wilful blindness.”12
When Sansregret chose to believe his ex-girlfriend, held at knife point, was consenting to sex he was willfully blind to her fear and duress.
Reasonable Steps to Ascertain a Reasonable Belief of Consent
With that being said, in circumstances where the accused is neither reckless nor willfully blind there are steps to be taken to ensure that a reasonable belief has been established. These steps were spoken of by the Ontario Court of Appeal in R v Cornejo.
Here, Cornejo went to visit his co-worker at 1 in the morning. His idea of an invitation had been a muffled and indecipherable sound over the phone, provided after she had told him not to come. By the time he arrived the complainant had passed out drunk on her own couch. She did not answer the door when he knocked so he entered without permission. Upon his entrance she awoke and said “what are you doing here?” Nevertheless, he proceeded to kiss her and undress her; she moved her hips to facilitate undress. However, she awoke fully when he began to touch her naked body and demanded that he leave immediately. She then called the police.
The trial judge found support for a claim of mistaken belief based on her muffled response on the phone and the position of her hips. The judge suggested that reasonable steps had occurred to ensure that she had consented; consequently, the defence was put to the jury’s consideration.
The Court of Appeal ruled that this interpretation of facts was incorrect. The complainant had repeatedly rebuffed advances in the past. She had informed Cornejo that she had a boyfriend and was waiting up for him. Furthermore, she was clearly intoxicated at the time and had asked the accused to leave her home. When the complainant said no to Cornejo he was put on notice that no consent was forthcoming. It was up to him to secure clear and unequivocal notice that this had changed before repeating his advances. The court stated that “a person in the accused’s circumstances takes a serious risk by founding an assumption of consent on passivity and non-verbal responses.”13
Cornejo did not obtain verbal consent; nor did the complainant revoke her previous rejection. She was clearly intoxicated and upset by Cornejo’s presence. He did not undertake reasonable steps to establish a reasonable belief of consent. As such his acquittal was overturned.
Conclusion
Parliament and the Supreme Court of Canada have together mapped out a method to prosecute the heavily stigmatized crime of sexual assault. They have parsed away the myths and stereotypes that surround sexuality and consent in an effort to clarify the issue.
In short, consent is not provided until communicated. It can be removed at any time and cannot be induced by coercion, force or authority. When unequivocal consent is absent the onus falls on the accused to demonstrate why he chose to proceed, based on a reasonable and educated assessment of his accuser’s actions. It is no defence to turn a blind eye to the circumstances and recklessly proceed in the face of opposition. Without a “yes”, the legal presumption is “no”.
If you have any further inquiries related to consent or sexual assault feel free to contact yourteam@armouredsuits.ca
Footnotes
R. v. Ewanchuk, [1999] 1 SCR 330, 1999 CanLII 711 (SCC) [Ewanchuk].
Criminal Code, RSC 1985, c C-46, s 273.2(ii) [Criminal Code].
Ibid, s 265.
Ibid, S265(3).
Ibid, s273
Ibid, S265(4)
Pappajohn v. The Queen, [1980] 2 SCR 120, 1980 CanLII 13 (SCC) [Pappajohn].
Criminal Code, supra note ii, s 273.2.
Ewanchuk, supra note i.
Ibid.
Pappajohn, supra note vii.
Sansregret v. The Queen, [1985] 1 SCR 570, 1985 CanLII 79 (SCC).
R. v. Cornejo, 2003 CanLII 26893 (ON CA).

### Understanding Pornography Laws Canada: What You Need To Know
last updated: August 2024
At Armoured Suits, we can help you navigate the complex and often confusing landscape of pornography laws in Canada. Our team of experienced legal professionals understand the intricacies of these laws and can provide you with the guidance and representation you need. Whether you are facing charges related to the possession, distribution, or creation of illegal content, or simply seeking to understand your rights and responsibilities, we are here to assist you.
We offer comprehensive legal services that ensure you are well-informed and protected under the law. Trust Armoured Suits defence lawyers to provide you with the expertise and support necessary to handle these sensitive matters with discretion and professionalism.
Key takeaways
 	Pornography laws in Canada clearly differentiate between adult and child pornography, with strict penalties and a comprehensive framework to protect minors from exploitation.
 	Obscenity laws, based on community standards, govern the legality of sexually explicit materials, emphasizing the importance of societal values in defining permissibility.
Defining pornography under Canadian law
In Canada, pornography encompasses various legal dimensions. Child pornography is specifically defined as any visual or audio recording depicting individuals under the age of eighteen engaged in explicit sexual activity or displaying their sexual organs for a sexual purpose. This clear definition protects minors from exploitation and abuse. The Criminal Code of Canada provides a comprehensive legal framework for what constitutes sexually explicit material, adapting to evolving societal standards.
The law differentiates various forms of pornographic content based on context and content. While adult pornography is legal under specific conditions, the stance on child pornography is uncompromising. These definitions aid in navigating the complex legal landscape and ensuring compliance.
Legal boundaries: What is permissible and what is not
Canada’s legal boundaries for permissible pornography and sexual offences are defined by clear yet complex rules. While child pornography and obscene materials intended for sale are categorically illegal, some sexually explicit content is permissible. For instance, it is legal to watch bestiality in Canada, which often surprises many. This distinction highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of the law.
The term ‘pornography’ isn’t explicitly used in Canadian legislation; the focus is on ‘obscenity’. This concept helps define legality. Obscene materials, deemed excessively degrading or violent, are evaluated based on community standards and potential harm, including those of a sexual nature. This ensures content alignment with societal norms and values.
Individuals must be at least eighteen years old to legally watch pornography in Canada. This restriction protects minors from exposure to explicit material. Knowing these legal boundaries aids in making informed decisions about acceptable content to view and share.
Child pornography offences - sexually explicit material
Child pornography offences in Canada cover various activities aimed at protecting minors from exploitation. These include making, distributing, possessing, or accessing child pornography. Section 163 of the Criminal Code outlines the legal framework for prosecuting these crimes, holding offenders accountable.
In Ontario, child pornography offences are clearly categorized: Possession, access, distribution, and production. Access involves knowingly causing child pornography to be viewed or transmitted, a serious offence highlighting the need for vigilance online. Possession doesn’t require viewing pornographic material; merely having control over the materials constitutes a crime.
Penalties for making child pornography
The penalties for child pornography crimes in Canada are severe, reflecting the gravity of these offences. Depending on the nature of the crime, punishment ranges from a minimum of six months to a maximum of 14 years in prison. This wide range underscores the seriousness with which the law treats those convicted of these offences.
Making child pornography carries the harshest penalties, with a maximum sentence of 14 years imprisonment. Accessing and possessing child pornography, when treated as an indictable offence punishable, both have a mandatory minimum punishment of one year in prison. These stringent penalties serve as strong deterrents.
Aggravating factors, such as intent to profit or the age of the children involved, can increase sentence severity. Additionally, a child pornography summary conviction includes mandatory registration on the National Sex Offender Registry, emphasizing long-term consequences. The law’s strict penalties reflect society’s commitment to protecting children from exploitation.
Obscenity laws in Canada
Obscenity laws in Canada fall under Section 163 of the Criminal Code, covering the creation, distribution, and possession of obscene material. This includes materials that exploit sex, violence, and horror unduly. The definition of obscenity evolves with societal standards and values.
The concept of obscenity is evaluated through a community standards test, established by the Supreme Court in the R.v. Butler case. This test considers whether the dominant characteristic of the written material is undue exploitation of sex, violence, or horror, and whether it possesses artistic merit, while also acknowledging the substantial risk it may pose. The community standards test ensures the law reflects societal values and norms.
Notable court rulings have clarified the application of obscenity laws. The Supreme Court categorizes obscenity into three groups: explicit sex with violence, explicit sex without violence that is degrading, and explicit sex without violence generally tolerated by the community. These categories help determine what is considered obscene and what is permissible, ensuring consistent and fair application of the law.
Legal consequences of viewing illegal content
Viewing illegal content, such as child pornography, carries severe legal consequences in Canada. Anyone accessing such content can face serious charges, including potential imprisonment for up to ten years. The law treats these offences with utmost seriousness, reflecting society’s commitment to protecting minors from exploitation.
If you accidentally view illegal content, stop immediately and report it to the authorities. Proving accidental viewing may mitigate legal consequences, but it is not guaranteed. Vigilance and proactive measures are the best ways to avoid such content.
If charged with possession of child pornography, securing legal representation is essential. A criminal defence lawyer at Armoured Suits can provide guidance and representation to navigate the legal process. Understanding the legal consequences and knowing what steps to take can significantly impact the outcome of such cases.
Steps to avoid viewing illegal content
Preventing accidental exposure to illegal content is crucial for staying within the bounds of the law. Using technology such as anti-virus software can help protect against accidentally accessing harmful websites. These tools are essential for a safe online experience.
Educating yourself on Canadian laws concerning pornography is another important step. Understanding what constitutes illegal content helps you make informed decisions and avoid unintentional violations. Staying informed and vigilant about online content is essential for navigating the digital landscape safely.
Taking these proactive measures helps avoid legal trouble and contributes to a safer online environment for everyone. Being aware and cautious protects you and others from the harmful effects of illegal content.
Summary
Understanding pornography laws in Canada is essential for anyone navigating the digital world. From defining what constitutes child pornography to understanding the legal boundaries and penalties, this guide provides a comprehensive overview. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, you can ensure compliance with the law and contribute to a safer online environment. At Armoured Suits, we emphasize the importance of legal awareness in today’s digital age. With the rapid evolution of technology and the internet, it’s crucial to stay updated on the legal frameworks governing online content.
Not only does this knowledge protect you from potential legal repercussions, but it also empowers you to make responsible choices that align with societal values and norms. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the resources and support needed to navigate these complex issues confidently and responsibly. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with navigating the complexities of pornography laws in Canada.
Our legal experts are ready to provide you with personalized advice and representation tailored to your unique situation. Whether you are facing legal challenges or simply seeking to understand your rights and responsibilities, we are here to help.
 
Frequently asked questions
What is considered child pornography under Canadian law?
Child pornography under Canadian law is defined as any visual representation that depicts a person under the age of 18 engaged in explicit sexual activity, or exhibiting their sexual organs for sexual purposes. This includes photographs, videos, and other forms of media that exploit minors.
 
What are the penalties for accessing child pornography in Canada?
The penalties for accessing child pornography in Canada can vary significantly, with sentences ranging from a minimum of six months to a maximum of 14 years in prison based on the specifics of the offence. It is imperative to understand the seriousness of this crime and its severe legal repercussions.
 
What should I do if I accidentally view illegal content?
If you accidentally view illegal content, you should stop viewing it immediately and report the incident to the authorities. This action may help mitigate potential legal consequences.
 
What steps can I take to avoid viewing illegal content?
To avoid viewing illegal content, utilize anti-virus software and educate yourself on the relevant laws in your area regarding pornography. Staying informed and vigilant about online content is also crucial.

### Police found drugs on you? Read this...
Unreasonable Search and Seizure Part 1:
What is Unreasonable Search and Seizure?
Section 8 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms states that “Everyone has the right to be secure against unreasonable search or seizure.”1 It is important to understand what makes a police search unreasonable because evidence gathered in this manner may be excluded at trial. This can have important ramifications on the prosecution’s ability to prove charges that rely on such evidence.
Traditionally, section 8 requires that state searches be conducted with a warrant; however, the result is not always so simple. In some situations warrants aren’t necessary when it would be impractical.2 This may be the case when ensuring a police officer’s safety in the course of an arrest3, when the police have a reasonable suspicion of wrong doing4 or when there is simply no time to obtain a warrant in the circumstances. Essentially, section 8 means that a search requires a warrant and if one is not provided the police must demonstrate why it was reasonable to proceed without one.5
Before determining whether a police search has intruded on a person’s rights it must be established that the individual did in fact have a reasonable expectation of privacy.6 Only where a state examination intrudes upon some privacy interest does the action constitute a ‘search’ within the meaning of section 8.”7 Otherwise, a warrant is unnecessary and the evidence will not be questioned.
Therefore, the basic question under section 8 is two-fold
	Did the accused have a reasonable expectation of privacy?
	If so, was the search conducted in a reasonable manner?
What is a Reasonable Expectation of Privacy?
The Supreme Court of Canada has recognized three main forms of privacy, namely: personal, territorial and informational.8 Personal privacy refers to bodily integrity, in particular, the right not to have one’s body touched.9 Territorial privacy refers to “the home, where our most intimate and private activities are most likely to take place"10 Finally, informational privacy refers to biographical material that reveals intimate details about lifestyle and identity.11
In order to determine whether an individual has a reasonable expectation of personal, territorial or informational privacy the court will consider the totality of the circumstances in any given search.12
When considering the circumstances it is important to note that the relevant factors may change based on the form of privacy in question. For example, when considering territorial privacy the court will look at property ownership and the ability to regulate access or exclude people.13 In one case the Supreme Court ruled an accused, Edwards, did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy over narcotics he had hidden at his girlfriend’s home. He had no right to exclude people from her house despite possessing a key. Therefore, the search in that circumstance was not unreasonable and the evidence was admitted.14
In all disputed police searches it is necessary to demonstrate both a subjective and objective expectation of privacy in the subject matter.15 Subjective expectation can be demonstrated by the actions and beliefs of the person under search. If someone locks their property in a public locker they will still subjectively assume that they have a right to privacy despite leaving their possessions behind.16
Objective expectation may be harder to prove. Just because Edwards personally believed his drugs were safe from search at his girlfriend’s home does not mean he was correct. Some objective considerations are as follows:
	What is the location of the search? Certain locations objectively provide less privacy. For example, in an airport or courthouse it would be impractical to obtain a search warrant for everybody who enters.17
	Was the informational content of the subject matter in public view? Garbage left on the curb is objectively unlikely to garner an expectation of privacy given that it has been publicly abandoned.18
	Is the information already in the hands of third parties?19
	Does the information expose any intimate details of the accused’s lifestyle, or information of a biographic nature?20 While some information, such as a high hydro bill for a marijuana grow-op, may be damning evidence it does not constitute biographical information because it does not expose intimate details of one’s personal life.21 Objectively, there is no need for privacy over such data.
If, in light of all these questions, the accused is able to demonstrate a subjective and objective expectation of privacy then the analysis moves onto the second question, was the search conducted in a reasonable manner?22
What is a Reasonable Police Search?
The basic test to determine whether a search has been conducted in a reasonable manner is three-fold.
	Permission to search is provided by an impartial and independent party (a Justice),
	Evidence, provided under oath, must satisfy the Justice that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that an offence had been committed,
	that evidence must satisfy the Justice that the police have reasonable grounds to believe that evidence of an offence may be recovered.23
The reason why a search should be conducted with an independently provided warrant is that Section 8 is intended to prevent unjustified searches before they happen, not to validate them after the fact.24
Without a warrant there will be a presumption that there are no reasonable grounds for the search to have occurred.25 It is not enough that police merely assume that evidence may be found. When searches are conducted without warrants there is a possibility that the ends will justify the means. The police may not have had enough proof to obtain a warrant, but now that evidence has been found the search can be validated after the fact.26 For example, in R v Evans police approached the Evans’ home and smelt marijuana. They had no justification to suspect that marijuana was present. They never would have received permission to “sniff” the home from a Justice. For that reason the police search of the home based on the odor was unreasonable and excluded at trial.
When no warrant is obtained the standard that police must meet in conducting a search is that of a reasonable suspicion. “Suspicion” is an expectation that the targeted individual is possibly engaged in criminal activity.  A “reasonable” suspicion means something more than a mere suspicion and something less than a belief based upon probable grounds.  Searches conducted without a warrant, require after the fact scrutiny of the grounds for the “reasonable suspicion” and must be rigorously examined.27
In Conclusion
This is a complicated area of the law and one that is constantly debated before the Supreme Court. Therefore, consultation with legal representation is a must when attempting to argue that a police search has been conducted inappropriately. However, it is possible to summarize the broad strokes of a Section 8 analysis.
If a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy based on both a subjective and objective analysis of the situation, and this privacy is breached, evidence discovered can only be held against the accused if the search was conducted with a warrant or under reasonable suspicion that evidence of a crime would be discovered.
Searches that are neither warranted by a Justice nor reasonable under the circumstances may be excluded at court if allowing it would bring the administration of justice into disrepute. To find out how evidence is excluded and learn more about the legal concept of “disrepute” turn to Unreasonable Search and Seizure Part 2: Excluding Evidence under the Canadian Charter.
Footnotes
	Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
	R v Campanella.
	R v Fearon.
	R v Kang-Brown.
	Hunter v Southam Inc, at para 11.
	Ibid.
	R v Tessling, at para 18.
	R v Tessling, at para 20.
	Ibid, at para 21.
	Ibid, at para 22.
	R v Tessling, at para 23.
	R v Edward.
	Ibid, at para 45.
	Ibid.
	R v Tessling.
	R v Buhay.
	R v Campanella.
	R v Patrick.
	R v Tessling.
	Ibid, at para 27.
	R v Plant.
	R v Edwards, at para 45.
	Hunter v Southam Inc, at para 11.
	Ibid, at para 27.
	Ibid, at para 11.
	R v A.M.
	R v Kang-Brown, at para 75.

### Do you qualify for Legal Aid?
Being charged with a criminal offence is a daunting experience, both mentally and financially. For many, affording legal representation may be difficult, if not impossible. Fortunately, in circumstances where jail time is a possibility and certain financial requirements are met, an accused may be eligible for Legal Aid in the form of information, representation and financial assistance from Legal Aid Ontario (LAO).
What is Legal Aid?
Legal Aid is assistance provided to an accused, by LAO, when one cannot afford their own legal counsel. It is provided through 4 main sources. The amount of help and guidance received depends on your personal circumstances and financial eligibility.
Listed below are the forms of Legal Aid, what they provide, and how to access them.
LawFacts.ca - currently inactive
LawFacts is a free and open source of legal information that should be used in conjunction with other forms of Legal Aid. It is a useful tool even if you do not qualify for other forms of assistance. The website will serve to make the process clearer by providing an overview of a variety of pertinent topics such as the Criminal Code, bail, surety and first appearances.
The purpose of the website is to help you understand the criminal justice system and the next steps you must undertake.  However, it is important to note that LawFacts is not legal advice. It is not a substitute for representation from your lawyer.
Duty Counsel
Duty Counsel provides legal assistance to persons of low income appearing in court without a lawyer. They can advise you about your charges and criminal court procedure.
Their offices can be found in the courthouse often close to the courtroom you have been requested to attend. You should speak to counsel on the day of your court date at least 30 minutes before court commences.
Try to bring all documents when attending Duty Counsel, including your disclosure, so that the office may provide more specific advice about your case. However, even without these documents, criminal duty counsel can still give general advice about your legal options.
In order, to avail yourself of some types of Duty Counsel assistance, including guidance on court motions and pleas, you must be financially eligible.  You will likely qualify if your gross family income is lower than these levels:
Number of Family Members
Family Income Must be Lower than
1
$20,225
2
$30,337
3
$34,832
4
$41,573
5+
$48,315
*These values are subject to change. They are current from April 1, 2015 to April 1, 2016 at which point the eligibility thresholds will be raised.
Beyond that, your charges must also qualify for assistance. There should be a likelihood of jail time if found guilty. However, this may not be mandatory. LAO recognizes that each circumstance is unique. There may be aggravating or mitigating factors that increase the need for legal assistance. despite the fact that jail time may not necessarily occur.  One circumstance where jail time is not a pre-requisite is where a person needs representation after experiencing domestic violence.
Should eligibility requirements be met, you may qualify for Legal Aid from Duty Counsel. If you are unsure whether you qualify based on the information above make sure to contact Legal Aid’s toll free help line at 1-800-668-8258 or visit the Duty Counsel office at the courthouse.
Summary Legal Advice
Summary Legal Advice provides you with the opportunity to have a 20-minute phone conversation with a lawyer who will answer questions and provide advice on your legal case.
Summary legal advice is valuable in several circumstances:
	If you are about to be charged you may receive guidance on police questioning, bail arrangements and finding a lawyer.
	If you have been charged you may receive guidance on what to expect in court including first appearances, pleas and sentencing.
	Legal advice is also available if a friend or family member is in custody and requires help with bail or surety.
It is free to call and make general inquires about legal advice at 1-800-668-8258. However, in order to qualify to speak to a lawyer you must be financially eligible.
The requirements for summary legal advice are the same as those for Duty Counsel, so refer to the chart above to see if you qualify.
Representation
Representation by a lawyer through the Certificate Program
Finally, if you qualify for the Certificate Program you will receive a voucher authorizing a privately practicing lawyer to assist you though full representation. This is the most comprehensive form of Legal Aid.
In order to qualify for the program your income must be lower than the stipulated totals in column 2 of the chart below. If your income is above the threshold for the Certificate Program but lower than the amount listed in column 3, you may still qualify. In such a circumstance you will be expected to make a contribution agreement and repay some of the assistance provided to you.
To determine whether you qualify for either the Certificate Program or the contribution agreement see the chart provided.
Number of Family Members
Certificate Program
Income must be lower than:
Contribution Agreement
Income must be lower than:
1
$12,135
$14,405
2
$20,993
$25,281
3
$23,932
$29,461
4
$27,042
$33,843
5+
$30,016
$38,157
Single Boarder
$7,978
$9,214
*These values are subject to change. They are current from April 1, 2015 to April 1, 2016 at which point the eligibility thresholds will be raised.
Furthermore, the charges against you must qualify as well. There must be a possibility of jail time upon a finding of guilt; although, it is not necessarily a mandatory prerequisite depending on the mitigating or aggravating circumstances. If you are unsure whether you qualify, contact Legal Aid at 1-800-668-8258.
Step by Step Qualification for the Certificate Program
In order to successfully make use of the Certificate Program here are the steps to follow:
	You’ve received your first appearance package outlining when and where you are required to appear in order to face your charges.
	Before attending this appearance it is important to visit Lawfacts.ca and meet with Duty Counsel at the Courthouse. This will help remove some of the mystery of the process before you. Make sure to bring the following information with you to Duty Counsel
	Identification
	Disclosure papers
	Crown screening form (will be attached to Disclosure)
	The papers you received from police when you were released, ie notice to appear.
	The Duty Counsel will provide you with a referral to LAO.
	Upon meeting with LAO (or calling their toll-free number) they will closely examine your financial status in order to determine whether you qualify for assistance, provided in the form of either summary legal advice or legal representation.
	Should you qualify you can access a list of lawyers in your area at http://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/getting/findingalawyer.asp.
	Once you have made contact with a lawyer and he or she has agreed to represent you under the Certificate Program you will follow that lawyer’s procedures and directions. 
Conclusions
Hopefully this article will assist you in answering the question “Do I qualify for Legal Aid?” All of the information above is accessible at http://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/. Furthermore, the income requirements listed may be subject to change as they are periodically increased by the Ontario Government (the next change is scheduled for April 2016).
If you have any further inquiries more information can be found at that website or feel free to contact me at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca

### Ten things to look for when deciding on the right lawyer for your case
Being arrested and charged with a criminal offence is a significant intrusion into the sanctity of one's life. The arrest creates anxiety and uncertainty about what the next steps are, who should be contacted or what steps should be taken. Selecting the right lawyer will invariably ease much of the anxiety. The right lawyer or firm will guide the accused person through the difficult process and avoid classic pitfalls made by inexperienced counsel or people who unwisely choose to represent themselves.
1) Make sure they're actually a lawyer
Many paralegal firms exist that purport to be lawyers or "consultants". They usually contract out the work only a lawyer can perform. Be clear who the lawyer is, what legal entity you're actually hiring and make sure it is the lawyer or firm directly.
2) Choose a lawyer who devotes a significant amount of their practice to criminal law
A license to practice law in the province of Ontario allows a lawyer to legitimately practice any area they want. This permission is given with a qualification: the lawyer must be competent in that area or be able to become competent in a timely fashion. The reality is that many lawyers will practice in many areas of law and have passing knowledge of each area but not be excellent in any one area. Choose a lawyer who devotes at least 50% of their practice to criminal law. Many criminal lawyers practice exclusively in criminal law, which is ideal.
3) Determine what kind of lawyer/firm you want
Lawyers range in age, experience, and cost. As might be expected, you usually get what you pay for. However, simply because a lawyer is experienced does not mean they will be a good fit for you or your case. Sometimes, a younger lawyer will be more available, more patient, more affordable, and more determined to prove themselves. Try to find a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and who will work for you. Simply because a lawyer demands a high retainer does not necessarily mean they will work hard.
Hiring a firm of lawyers offers a potential perceptual pitfall. Sometimes a client feels they are hiring a senior lawyer in the firm when in actuality a junior lawyer is delegated the client's case. There is nothing suspicious about this practice. Just be sure to clarify which lawyer is going to have primary carriage of your matter.
4) Lawyers who accept Legal Aid
Many lawyers purport to not accept legal aid certificates for cases because it provides a certain amount of perceived prestige. Legal aid is a system whereby legal fees are paid by the government of Ontario. Legal aid help is becomingly increasingly difficult to obtain and is generally reserved for those individuals who are facing jail time and are on some form of low income assistance. However, many people who are charged with criminal offences qualify for legal aid.
The reality is that most lawyers accept legal aid for the right client and case. In Ontario, the legal aid system is largely a public/private partnership where private lawyers receive payment from public monies. It is not a true public defender system. Many fine lawyers are willing to accept legal aid under the right circumstances.
In the end, your decision about what lawyer to hire should not be based on that lawyer's acceptance or non-acceptance of legal aid. If you qualify for legal aid, speak to the lawyer you have in mind and ask them if they would consider taking your case on a legal aid certificate.
5) Duty Counsel
Legal Aid Ontario recognizes that many people will arrive at court without a lawyer. They hire and staff a small office of employee lawyers who are able to assist the self-represented person or the person recently charged who is not sure if they will hire a lawyer. While duty counsel lawyers provide a good service, they are not actually representing the client in the strict sense. They provide cursory legal advice about a client's options. They are extremely busy and are often only able to assist for a couple of minutes. They simply do not have time to explore the availability of defences you might have.
If you want to have the comfort of knowing that your legal representative has researched your case thoroughly and provided exhaustive legal advice then you should not rely on duty counsel lawyers.
6) Guarantees
There are many types of guarantees that a lawyer may offer. Some are legitimate. Some are not. Procedural guarantees should be offered by the lawyer. Details like the lawyer's billing practices (whether block fee or hourly rate), their willingness to meet with you or take your phone calls, their commitment to work diligently on your case are all examples of bona fide assurances that a lawyer may (and should) make to a client.
Substantive guarantees are almost always not legitimate. Unfortunately, these are the very types of guarantees that people crave. The legal outcome of the case (guilty or not guilty) and the sentence (if any) for the offence are all beyond the lawyer's absolute control. This is because many factors determine a legal result in criminal law besides the lawyer's ability: the judge (or jury), the witnesses, the manner in which the prosecution is run etc. A lawyer may certainly advise of one's chances (e.g. "we have a strong case but..." or "you are not likely to be successful if you go to trial") but reducing success to hard percentages is difficult if not impossible.
If a lawyer is offering certainty of a specific result, then exercise caution before committing to any professional relationship. Seek a second opinion in these instances.
7) Sub-specialties
While it may seem logical to expect that a lawyer who knows your specific charge or has dealt with a similar case before will be a better fit for you, the reality is that most criminal lawyers are comfortable and willing to handle any criminal matter because the process is identical.
Sub-specialization is exceedingly uncommon. Some lawyers will not accept certain types of cases (e.g. murder or offences against children) because they have a preference not to deal with the subject matter.
When selecting a lawyer, do not expect them to have dealt with a case with your exact charge or your precise factual circumstances. Every case is unique. You should ask whether the lawyer feels comfortable in that area, and whether they have dealt with cases like yours generally. Having had a similar case before should not be the only consideration either. Simply because a lawyer has dealt with a case in the last few years does not mean that they will not have to re-learn the subtle nuances of the law in that particular area. The law evolves and the lawyer will have to satisfy themselves that their understanding is current.
Some lawyers become certified by the Law Society of Upper Canada as a specialist in criminal law. This can be a reliable indicator of their abilities. However, the specialist designation is not that common. Many admirable criminal defence lawyers forego this credential.
8) Professional Memberships
Be cautious about placing too much emphasis on the lawyer's professional memberships. Every lawyer licensed to practice law in Ontario must be a member in good standing with the Law Society of Upper Canada. This entity regulates the practice of law in Ontario and reviews a lawyer's conduct, ongoing legal education, practice management (record keeping), and ensures they carry professional insurance. There is no distinction to being a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada beyond having the right to practice law.
Local Law Associations are an important part of the legal community. Membership in one of the organizations can be an indicator of the lawyer's commitment to fostering a strong legal community but does not necessarily speak to their commitment to your case or criminal law.
A reliable indicator that you have the right criminal defence lawyer is their membership in criminal-specific lawyer associations. In Ottawa, the Defence Counsel Association of Ottawa (DCAO) has emerged as a strong voice in the preservation of client's rights and is a key stakeholder in the criminal judicial system. A lawyer's membership in this organization can be an indicator of their commitment to criminal law and their willingness to work collaboratively with other criminal lawyers to ensure the highest quality of criminal defence representation.
9) Legal Writing
A large portion of criminal law is the drafting of motion materials and written legal argument. A scholarly approach to the defence can make the difference between success and the alternative. If you have not had an opportunity to review any of the lawyer's written articles, ask to see what they have written. Ask them if their articles have ever been published.
10) Commitment to Thorough Preparation
The most important of all qualities is a dedication to ruthless preparation. Many successful legal outcomes are achieved from a defence lawyer knowing the case thoroughly and being able to raise a reasonable doubt through exposing inconsistencies that are buried in voluminous material. You want to know that your lawyer of choice is willing to dedicate the time and effort to familiarize themselves with every aspect of your case (both factual and legal).
Lawyers are unlikely to admit they do not place much emphasis on preparation. Therefore you cannot simply ask them. Look for other indicators that communicate their dedication to their clients (e.g. continuing legal education, scholarly articles, service - willingness to make themselves available, take phone calls) and their dedication to themselves (personal appearance and demeanour, office appearance, insistence on compensation).
Choosing a lawyer can be a daunting task. When deciding on the right criminal defence lawyer for your case, utilize these tools in analyzing your lawyer to ensure the best possible fit. Ask questions. It might be one of the most important decisions you will ever make.

### Travelling with a Criminal Record? Hope for the Best, Plan for the Worst
Criminal Records and the United States of America
Most, if not all, practising criminal lawyers will have been at one time or another asked how a Canadian criminal record might affect entry into the United States of America. The answer to this question is usually that we are neither American lawyers, nor experts in American immigration law, and any information provided is a “best guess” as to how the entry process works.
The purpose of this review is to outline the procedure for Canadian citizens who have a criminal record and who seek entry to the United States.
Disclose. The United States requires every person with a criminal record (regardless of the nature of the offence or when it was committed) to disclose the existence of a record.
Offence. Denials of entry for the most part depend on the nature of the offence traveller has been convicted of. Pardons. Canadian pardons are not recognized by the United States and the receipt of a pardon does not obviate the need for disclosure of criminal antecedents.
Past entry. Simply because an individual has previously been admitted into the country does not mean that entry will be granted once the disclosure is made.
Appeal. If a traveller is denied entry into the U.S. they may appeal the decision.
Background
Whether by air, land, or sea, a traveller to the United States of America with a criminal record will undoubtedly face uncertainty about their eligibility for admission into that country. Despite this there are a few things that should be known before advising a client.
Not all convictions disqualify
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is the statutory gatekeeper empowering border agents to allow or deny foreign nationals entrance into the United States of America. The INA states that an individual convicted of certain crimes can be denied entry into the United States. For example, a traveller will be denied entry if the individual in question has multiple convictions, or has been convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance, trafficking of persons, or for money laundering. The INA also authorizes border agents to deny entry to persons that have been convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMT).

 Although defunct in most common law jurisdictions, whether or not a crime is one of moral turpitude is a complex question of U.S. law and is determined by the nature of the offence that the individual was convicted of. In general, CIMT refers to conduct which is, “inherently base, vile, or depraved, and contrary to the accepted rules of morality and the duties owed between persons or to society in general.”2 According to the U.S. Department of State the most common element in these crimes are fraud, larceny, and/or intent to harm persons or things.3 However, a CIMT in American law can range from the offence of aggravated stalking, to tax evasion, and prostitution.4 It should be noted that attempting to commit, aiding and abetting, or conspiracy to commit a CIMT will be treated as a CIMT. There are also some important exceptions to these grounds for denial outlined in the INA, namely for minors, and for crimes with sentences of less than a year. These should be examined before advising a client.
What if the individual fails to disclose their criminal record?
If a person attempting entry into the United States fails to disclose the existence of a criminal record, even for crimes that would not otherwise exclude them from crossing the border, they will likely be denied entry, possibly face permanent ineligibility, and/or be detained at a U.S. Department of Homeland Security enforcement facility.
What is the correct protocol?
Individuals with a criminal record attempting to enter the United States should allot considerable time and be prepared to be denied entry. A quick, inexpensive, but risky way is to simply present a paper copy of the criminal conviction to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer while attempting to cross. CBP officials have the discretion to deny and allow entry into the United States and they will review the record. If the offence is clearly not one of the grounds to exclude entry the border agent will likely grant the individual entry. But this is a gambit, and the U.S. Embassy in Canada advises individuals only to use this method for a single conviction of impaired driving.
What if a person is ineligible or believes they might be?
If an individual is uncertain if they will be turned away at the border they can apply in advance to enter the United States. If filed in advance of travel or in anticipation of a denial of entry, they must file an Application for Advance Permission to Enter as Non-immigrant (I-192). In the alternative, if they are denied entry at the border they may appeal the decision of a CBP officer by filing an Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility (I-601). An individual can apply to these through the Department of Homeland Security of the CBP at any U.S. or Canadian port of entry or Canadian airport with a preclearance facility (Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal). For each application it can take up to a year for a decision to be made and the cost of filing is $585.5.
The DHS makes the ultimate decision but the consular officer must first recommend that an ineligible person be allowed entry into the United States. This decision is largely based on whether or not the Department believes that the individual will engage in unlawful activity while in the United States, how recently the conviction was entered, and whether or not it is in the national interest to grant them entry. Given this lengthy process the U.S. State Department and the DHS encourage applicants to register with the Traveller Redress Inquiry Program (TRIP). Here the applicant will be assigned a case number and the Department will answer applicants’ queries and inform them of a resolution regarding their denial or delay in entering the United States.
Conclusion
This how-to guide should not be taken as exhaustive and anyone advising a client or colleague should research the Immigration and Nationality Act, U.S. immigration procedure, and any relevant case law. Before deciding how to proceed, look first at the nature of the criminal conviction itself; does it involve trafficking in an illegal substance, persons, and/or laundering money? Is the conviction for a lesser offence, or could the crime be considered one involving moral turpitude? If not, the individual should approach the border with the proper paperwork and be prepared to fully disclose their criminal record. Any attempted border crossing should be approached with the expectation that they could be delayed, or outright denied entry into the United States. If they feel they cannot pass these first hurdles, especially if their conviction is on the boundaries of the CIMT category, the best strategy is to apply for preclearance in advance by filing a waiver of inadmissibility.
*Special thanks to Eric Girard, JD candidate, University of Ottawa, for his invaluable assistance in this article’s preparation.*
Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613.233.0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-min confidential consultation!

### Admissibility of Family Court Evidence in Criminal Proceedings
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Defence lawyers often deal with clients who have concurrent proceedings in family court, particularly the client accused of domestic-related offences. The purpose of this paper is twofold: 1) to assist the defence lawyer with substantive evidence law and 2) assist in advising the client with ongoing family law matters. Questions might arise about whether it is prudent or strategic to be the moving party in a motion for e.g. interim custody of the children. Does it matter who brings the motion? Could the evidence in the family proceeding damage the client's prospects in the criminal proceeding?
Background
The general self-incriminatory rule is that an accused person should not be compelled to give evidence against him or herself. This protection emanates from many parts of our constitution including the right to silence and the right not to be compelled to be a witness in one's own prosecution. The most overt protection against self-incrimination is found in s. 13 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter).1
Section 13 of the Charter provides:
A witness who testifies in any proceedings has the right not to have any incriminating evidence so given used to incriminate that witness in any other proceedings, except in a prosecution for perjury or for the giving of contradictory evidence.
While many provisions in both the Charter and the Canada Evidence Act2 (CEA) provide overlapping safeguards, (including s.5(2) of the latter), this paper shall consider only s. 13 protection because these related provisions operate with different scope. Also, it is generally accepted that s. 13 provides the widest protection and requires the least formal compliance to benefit from it.3 Section 5(2) of the CEA requires the witness to formally seek its protection whereas s.13 operates without regard to the witness' awareness of its protection. For that reason, it is said to offer the widest safeguard.
Application of the principle against self-incrimination in criminal proceedings forbids the Crown from adducing evidence given by a witness in "any proceeding" into evidence "in any other proceeding," except for the narrow purpose of a prosecution against an untruthful witness. In exchange for a witness' full, frank evidence, the state offers use immunity of that testimony against that witness.
The Supreme Court of Canada has considered s. 13 protection on a number of occasions.4 R. v. Henry5 is the Court's most recent proclamation on self-incrimination and is the leading case on the matter. Henry had testified at his first trial of first degree murder. He also elected to testify at the re-trial five years later. At issue in the appeal was whether the Crown ought to have been able to put inconsistencies from his earlier testimony at the first trial to him in cross-examination at the second trial.
Justice Binnie, writing for a unanimous court, held that while the Crown is prevented from using previous testimony against an accused in-chief, it is not prevented from using it for the purpose of cross-examining the voluntarily testifying accused in the subsequent proceeding on the same indictment. The rationale the court adopted for its reasoning is clear: the accused who testifies is not compelled.
Henry clarifies the protection offered by s. 13 regarding the use of compelled testimony in other proceedings. It makes clear that a witness providing evidence in one proceeding and who subsequently testifies in their own separate criminal proceeding cannot be impeached with prior testimony for any purpose, except in prosecutions for perjury or the giving of contradictory evidence. Henry dispenses with the cumbersome analysis culminating in Noël about using the prior testimony for impeaching credibility and whether that testimony was incriminating or innocuous at the time it was given and whether its subsequent use was incriminating or innocuous.
Henry confirms Noël insofar as there is no longer any requirement for a witness to assert a s.13 right, unlike s. 5(2) of the Canada Evidence Act.6
Henry makes clear that:
1) a witness in one proceeding who subsequently becomes an accused in another proceeding cannot be confronted with the previous testimony, either in the Crown's case in chief or in cross-examination (even for impeachment of credibility);2) the witness need not assert any right against self-incrimination for this protection to be operative;3) the rationale for the protection emanates from the compulsion to incriminate oneself;however;
4) an accused testifying in a criminal trial cannot testify on the re-trial and insulate himself from being confronted in cross-examination with his testimony in the first trial.
Questions not satisfactorily answered directly in this case are: what constitutes other proceedings? What kind of evidence qualifies? Under what circumstances can evidence be deemed compelled?
Definition of "other proceedings"
What constitutes "other proceedings" is a matter of direct relevance. Clearly, testifying at the trial of another person constitutes another proceeding.7 Less clear is whether related civil or family proceedings, or even an accused's own bail hearing are sufficiently remote to qualify for s. 13 protection as "other proceedings."
In R. v. Richards,8 it was submitted by counsel for the accused that the accused's bail hearing testimony and evidence on a voir dire ought to be treated as other proceedings. Counsel for the Crown did not directly oppose this submission and the British Columbia Court of Appeal proceeded on the basis that this evidence qualified as other proceedings.
Similarly, in R. v. Nedelcu,9 the Court ruled that the Crown ought to be prohibited from cross-examining an accused on transcript from his civil examination for discovery because he had been the respondent in that action and his participation was effectively conscripted.
Given these decisions it appears that "other proceedings" is given a fairly wide interpretation
Family law proceedings
In light of the view of "other proceedings" determined in Richards and the Ontario Court of Appeal's view in Nedelcu, there is little doubt that civil proceedings, in which family matters are included, qualify as other proceedings in the context of a criminal trial.10 As such, evidence given in them theoretically qualifies for protection as contemplated directly in Henry. However, the protection is not absolute; it shall only be granted so long as the evidence conforms to the basic rule.
The basic rule
A defendant, or respondent as they are called in the Family Law Rules (the Rules),11 who is answering a case provides compelled evidence in the ordinary course when they are required to testify under the Rules.12
In Nedelcu, the accused was a defendant in a civil action that proceeded concurrently with the criminal process. Apparently a co-worker, one Mr. Perdon, was riding on Nedelcu's motorcycle without a helmet and the vehicle subsequently crashed and Perdon was permanently injured. Nedelcu was charged with dangerous driving causing bodily harm and found guilty. He was also sued by Perdon. At issue in the criminal appeal was whether Nedelcu had provided compelled evidence in his examination for discovery and whether its use in his subsequent criminal trial for the purpose of impeaching his credibility was proper. In allowing the appeal from conviction, Armstrong J.A. concluded that defendants participating in a civil action gain nothing from participating and are therefore compelled:
 "The appellant was a defendant in a civil action brought against him. He was not the plaintiff. He was compelled to testify on the examination for discovery solely for the benefit of the plaintiffs. He was not entitled to use his discovery evidence in the civil trial. If he wished his story told, he must step into the witness box at trial. From an evidentiary point of view, there is nothing that a witness can do on discovery to help his case."13
Justice Armstrong followed the reasoning in Henry stating that once evidence from one proceeding is deemed compelled, that it cannot be subsequently used for any purpose except for prosecutions for perjury.
What is not satisfactorily answered by this judgment is whether the inability to assist one's own case is determinative of the compulsion described, thereby preventing plaintiffs or moving parties from benefiting from s. 13 protection.
What consitutes evidence?
The protection in s. 13 extends to a witness who testifies and provides evidence. On its face, the protection offered appears restricted to testimonial evidence. While this is the primary form of evidence contemplated, it appears that if an affidavit is tendered in lieu of testimony that its testimonial quality could be sufficient to invoke s. 13 safeguards.14
In R. v. Baksh, a complicated procedural case, an accused had sworn an affidavit relating to his personal health circumstances and filed it at the initial proceeding. That proceeding was ruled a mistrial and a subsequent proceeding had been convened. At issue was the use that could be made of the affidavit initially sworn and tendered. Justice Hill, in ruling the affidavit was sufficiently evidentiary to qualify for s. 13 protection stated:
 "On the other hand, Mr. Baksh's affidavit, Exhibit #2 in the former trial, carries testimonial quality protected by s.13 of the Charter...the under-oath affidavit would not be admissible if tendered by the prosecution."15
Baksh was decided without Henry's guidance but it can be relied upon as authority for the proposition that an affidavit voluntarily submitted as evidence in lieu of testimony is eligible for s. 13 protection. In light of Henry, it seems clear that the Crown would have been at liberty to cross-examine Baksh had he subsequently testified (the same facts as in Henry).
Although Baksh was a criminal case, the focus on affidavits is highly probative in family law. Many motions both procedural and substantive in family court are argued on the strength of affidavits.
Further authority for the proposition that affidavits qualify for s. 13 protection can be found in the quasi-criminal contempt proceedings in Merck & Co., Inc. v. Apotex Inc. As Justice Mackay observes, affidavits take on a testimonial character:
 "Those proceedings, for judicial review, progress to a hearing on the basis of affidavit evidence, and often of transcripts of cross-examination upon any affidavits filed, and without oral testimony. In my opinion, in circumstances where the affidavit is that of a person subsequently ordered in other proceedings to show cause why he or she should not be found in contempt, and that person has not testified in the later proceedings, the affidavit from prior judicial review proceedings, and any cross-examination upon it, falls within the meaning of "testimony" within section 13 of the Charter. It may not be adduced by the opposing party whose reliance upon it would constitute incriminating use within section 13."17
The impermissibility in this case was the attempted submission of a prior affidavit in the 'prosecution's' case in-chief. Whether the defendant cum accused could have been cross-examined with his affidavit was not directly decided because the accused did not testify. However, again, relying on the reasoning in Henry, it seems unlikely that cross-examination would have been permissible.
This line of authority seems to indicate that affidavits proffered in civil proceedings are protected from use in the affiants' subsequent prosecution. As always, the compelled nature of the evidence elicits the protection, not the formal substance.18
What qualifies as compulsion? How can a family litigant be compelled to give evidence?
Unlike criminal proceedings, family proceedings are civil in nature and as a result, every party can be forced to participate.19 The Ontario Evidence Act (EA) is the applicable evidentiary statute in civil proceedings instituted in Ontario. Its dictates overtly permits compelled testimony.
Similarly, the Family Law Rules, incorporating s. 8 of the EA, contain rules compelling a party's participation in various steps in the process. The relevant rules are: Rule 20(5)20- questioning a witness and disclosure; and Rule 23(11)21 - calling opposing party as witness at trial. These two rules provide a forum for one party to require the other party to provide evidence.
In situations where a respondent has been forced to provide evidence in a family proceeding, it seems clear that its subsequent use in a criminal trial for any purpose would be prohibited. However, what remains uncertain is whether similar protection would be afforded an applicant (the originator of a family law process). There is currently no authority on point.
Given the rationale employed by the Supreme Court, it seems doubtful that an applicant who initiated proceedings, but who is then subsequently compelled to testify in any manner by the opposing side could be denied s. 13 protection. After all, it is the compulsion that crystallizes the shield, not the underlying circumstances that leads to the compulsion.
What/who is protected?
It seems as though a party to a proceeding at whose instance the next stage is instigated would not be subject to self-incriminating protection. The moving party to a motion, for instance, is actively seeking a result and it would be contrary to the rationale in Henry and Nedelcu to prohibit impeachment.
Further, the protection does not extend to tactical compulsions to testify.22 This was the case in Henry. For the same reason that an accused who feels they must testify at their re-trial is not afforded s. 13 protection, a party to a civil proceeding who voluntarily testifies should not benefit due to lack of compulsion.
Application
The greatest difficulty in applying Henry when faced with previously given evidence will likely be whether the previous evidence was compelled. If evidence is determined to be compelled, Henry's guidance is clear. Whether non-compelled evidence could be used by the Crown in-chief or to impeach credibility in subsequent criminal proceedings is outside the scope of this paper. However, it appears as though its use would be limited to the latter.
Contact Armoured Suits by phone at 613.233.0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca for a free 30-min confidential consultation!
1Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Part 1of the Constitution Act, 1982 being Schedule B to the Canada Act 1982 (U.K.), 1982, c. 11
2Evidence Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. C-5
3Per Arbour J. in R. v. Noël, [2003] 3 S.C.R. 433 at para 32
4See R. v. Kuldip, [1990] 3 S.C.R. 618, R. v. Allen, [2003] 1 S.C.R. 223, R. v. Noël, [2003] 3 S.C.R. 433, and Dubois v. The Queen, [1985] 2 S.C.R. 350. The evolution of the jurisprudence of this Charter section exceeds the scope of this paper.
5R. v. Henry, [2005] 3 S.C.R. 609
6R. v. Simpson, 2012 NSSC 66 at para 32:
 "In the days before the Charter, a question of that kind, in a criminal or a civil case, would have provoked an automatic intervention by the bench. In my experience, the judge would refer to s. 5(2) of the Canada Evidence Act and ask the witness if he wanted to take the benefit of it. We no longer do that. We rely on s. 13, which operates without the formality of an objection."
7Noël, supra at para 208R. v. Richards, (1997) 6 CR (5th) 154 (BC CA)9R. v. Nedelcu, 2011 ONCA 143br /> 10Richards, supra, at para 5211Family Law Rules, O. Reg. 439/07, s.112Nedelcu, supra, at para 27 and 2913Nedelcu, supra at para 3214R. v. Baksh, (2005), 199 C.C.C.(3d) 201, aff'd, 2008 ONCA 116 (Endorsement); leave to appeal refused [2008] S.C.C.A. No. 155, and in Buxbaum [1989] O.J. No. 539, 70 C.R.(3d) 20, leave to appeal refused [1989] S.C.C.A. No. 23915R. v. Baksh, 2005 199 CCC (3d) 201 at para 8016& Co., Inc. v. Apotex Inc., [1998] 3 FC 400; 79 CPR (3d) 501; 146 FTR 14817Ibid18But see The Queen v. Innocente, 2001 NSSC 138, in the context of a s. 462.34 of the Criminal Code of Canada, R.S.C., 1985 c. C-46 application to release seized funds where the Crown was able to impeach the accused's credibility with an affidavit he had sworn in a family law proceeding. The affidavit was used to impeach the accused's credibility when he testified on the application. This use was permitted prior to Henry so long as the purpose was to impeach credibility not to incriminate. In light of the Supreme Court's new dictum on self-incrimination, it is unlikely that this use would now be lawful.19Evidence Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter E.23, s. 8(1):
 "8. (1) The parties to an action and the persons on whose behalf it is brought, instituted, opposed or defended are, except as hereinafter otherwise provided, competent and compellable to give evidence on behalf of themselves or of any of the parties, and the spouses of such parties and persons are, except as hereinafter otherwise provided, competent and compellable to give evidence on behalf of any of the parties."
20Family Law Rules, Supra at r. 20(5)
 Questioning a witness - Rule 20
The language and terminology in the Rules were modified several years ago to make them more accessible to the layperson. Questioning is merely the name given to the old concept of examination for discovery. It is not asserted as of right but can be required by judge's order. A party to a proceeding need only show that:
 	1. It would be unfair to the party who wants the questioning or disclosure to carry on with the case without it.
 	2. The information is not easily available by any other method.
 	3. The questioning or disclosure will not cause unacceptable delay or undue expense.
21Ibid at r. 23(11) and (12)
 Calling Opposing Party at Trial - Rule 23
23. [...]
"(11) A party may call the opposing party as a witness and may cross-examine the opposing party."
22R. v. Henry, supra, para 46
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## Pages
### Cybercrimes
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="CYBERCRIMES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/agustin-fernandez-4Oth7qam-1w.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Understanding Cybercrime Charges: What You Need to Know[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" link_text_color="#FFFFFF" background_layout="dark" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]For most people, the term cybercrime conjures up images of anonymous hackers in dark rooms or elaborate scams targeting corporations. In reality, cyber-related criminal charges often involve everyday situations: a phone that’s been accessed without permission, a workplace login misused during a dispute, or messages sent during an argument that cross a legal line. These cases can escalate quickly, and the implications are serious.
At Armoured Suits, we regularly assist individuals who never imagined they’d be facing criminal allegations connected to technology. The goal of this article is to break down what cybercrime charges typically involve, how they are handled in Canadian courts, and what to do if you or someone close to you is under investigation.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="What counts as cybercrime" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What Counts as a Cybercrime in Canada?[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Cybercrime is not a single offence. It’s an umbrella for a range of criminal charges involving computers, phones, networks, or digital information. Under the Criminal Code of Canada, charges commonly grouped under cybercrime include:
Unauthorized use of a computer
Fraud and identity theft
Extortion involving digital communications
Distribution or possession of unlawful images
Harassment, threats, and intimidation online
Misuse of private or confidential information
One key point: The technology is simply the medium. Courts treat most cyber-related offences the same way they treat their offline equivalents. For example, harassment conducted over Instagram or text messages is still harassment. Fraud conducted using a fake online storefront is still fraud.
However, digital evidence creates added complexity. Devices can store years of data. Information may be misunderstood, taken out of context, or misinterpreted. This is where competent legal representation becomes crucial.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="How Cybercrime Investigations Typically Work" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How Cybercrime Investigations Typically Work[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]When a cybercrime allegation is made, police may obtain warrants to search devices, online accounts, cloud data, or even workplace servers. Many individuals first learn they’re under investigation when:
Their phone or computer is seized.
They receive a call asking them to come “give a statement.”
Their employer informs them about a complaint involving digital access.
Important: If police ask you to “just come in and explain things,” you are not obligated to do so without legal advice. Statements you provide — even casually — can later become evidence.
Cybercrime cases also often involve:
Digital forensics teams examining metadata and logs
Cross-border data requests (if apps or servers are outside Canada)
Evidence interpretation by experts
This means the defence needs to be strategic. Understanding how the Crown intends to prove digital activity matters just as much as understanding the charge itself.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_main_element="display:flex;" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Common Situations That Lead to Charges" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Common Situations That Lead to Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Not every cybercrime case begins with malicious intent. Many arise from emotional or personal circumstances. Some examples we’ve seen include:
Accessing a former partner’s email or social media account during a breakup
Sending threatening or aggressive messages during a dispute
Using workplace credentials after leaving a job
Trying to see who someone is messaging by opening their phone without permission
Downloading or sharing files without realizing the legal implications
Mistakes, poor judgment, and spur-of-the-moment decisions can lead to life-changing legal consequences. But intent, context, and state of mind matter — and can influence outcomes when properly presented.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Penalties Can Be Serious" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalties Can Be Serious[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Depending on the charge, consequences may include:
Fines
Probation
A criminal record
Jail time
Restrictions on internet use or device ownership
Damage to employment and professional licensing
Impacts on immigration status or travel
The long-term effect of a criminal record, particularly one involving digital misconduct, can be more damaging than the immediate penalty itself. This is why it’s critical to respond quickly and strategically.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="How a Defence Lawyer Can Help" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How a Defence Lawyer Can Help[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Cybercrime cases are evidence-heavy. The defence must understand:
How the data was collected
Whether warrants were valid
Whether the evidence actually proves the accused person committed the act
Whether someone else could have accessed the device or account
Whether the accused had intent to commit a crime
At Armoured Suits, we focus on protecting rights from the earliest stages. This includes:
Guiding your dealings with police
Preventing self-incriminating statements
Reviewing the legality of searches and seizures
Challenging how digital evidence is interpreted
Negotiating for reduced or withdrawn charges when appropriate
No two cases are identical. The details matter.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="If You’re Facing a Cybercrime Allegation" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]If You’re Facing a Cybercrime Allegation[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]People often hesitate to contact a lawyer because they hope the situation will “blow over” or because they believe the truth is obvious. Unfortunately, doing nothing is not interpreted charitably in criminal investigations.
The earlier you get legal advice, the better positioned you are to protect your future.
Armoured Suits is based in Ottawa and serves clients throughout Ontario. If you’ve been contacted by police, are under investigation, or have already been charged, we are here to assist you.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row disabled_on="off|off|off" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text disabled_on="on|on|on" admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" disabled="on" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us Today[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on="on|on|on" _builder_version="4.27.0" disabled="on" global_colors_info="{}"]If you are facing a criminal harassment charge, contact Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers immediately. We will thoroughly investigate your case, build a solid defence, and fight aggressively to protect your rights.
Thoroughly investigate the evidence: We examine the Crown's case to identify weaknesses and inconsistencies.
Build a strong defense: We develop effective strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
Protect your rights: We ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
Provide support and guidance: We offer compassionate support and explain the legal process clearly.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Us Button" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Anish Sethi - Criminal Defence Lawyer
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminal-law-firm-ottawa.jpg" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" _builder_version="4.21.0" parallax="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="ANISH SETHI" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.26)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.21.0" header_font="||||" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,3_4" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/anish-sethi-criminal-law-firm-ottawa-534-190x300.jpg" alt="anish sethi articling student criminal law firm ottawa" title_text="Anish-Sethi-575" align="center" _builder_version="4.22.2" max_width="190px" box_shadow_style="preset3" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]ANISH SETHI, B.A., LL.B
Criminal Defence Lawyer[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/how-we-help/" button_text="How We Help" button_alignment="center" admin_label="How We Help Button" _builder_version="4.21.0" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="3_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.21.0" custom_margin="|||30px|false|false" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Fast Facts About Anish[/et_pb_text][et_pb_tabs admin_label="Tabs" module_id="lawfirm-tabs" _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" custom_css_main_element="display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_tabs_controls="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:flex;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tab="width:100%;||text-align:center;||margin:auto;||height:calc(100% / 5);||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_active_tab="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;" global_colors_info="{}" custom_css_main_element_tablet="Display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_main_element_phone="display:block;" custom_css_main_element_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tabs_controls_tablet="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tabs_controls_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tab_tablet="width:100%;||text-align:center;||min-height:50px;||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||height:auto;" custom_css_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_active_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #0094D9;" custom_css_active_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_content_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tabs_content_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_controls_phone="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_active_tab_tablet="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content_tablet="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_tab title="Practice Areas" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Anish feels comfortable defending any criminal charge, however the following areas are of particular interest:
Assault
Theft, Breaking and Entering
Impaired Driving
Cybercrimes and Cyberfrauds
OHSA and other regulatory offences
Firearms
Highway Traffic Act Offences
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Education" _builder_version="4.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"]
2019 - GGS Indraprastha University, Delhi, India B.A., LL.B. Integrated
2021 - FLSC NCA (Certificate of Equivalency)
2024 - Computek College, Toronto, Cybersecurity Foundations
Called to the Bar
Law Society of Ontario – Expected 2024
Bar Council of Delhi - 2019
Bar Council of India - 2019
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Professional Affiliations" _builder_version="4.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"]
Defence Counsel Association of Ottawa
Delhi High Court Bar Association
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Charitable Causes" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]
	CHEO
	World Wildlife Fund: WWF
Canadian Wildlife Federation
The Ocean Cleanup
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Languages" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]
English
Hindi
Punjabi
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Contact" _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Email: anish.sethi@armouredsuits.ca
Office: 613.233.0008 x525
Cell: 343.843.0111[/et_pb_tab][/et_pb_tabs][et_pb_code admin_label="Code" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="||on||||||" text_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" custom_padding="|24px||24px|false|true" global_colors_info="{}"]
Anish is a criminal defence lawyer at Armoured Suits, returning to the firm after completing his articles here during the licensing process. He brings a practical, client-focused approach to defending individuals against a wide range of criminal charges, with a strong commitment to fairness and advocacy.
Anish is recognized for his empathetic approach, ensuring clients feel heard and understood throughout the legal process. His meticulous attention to detail allows him to uncover critical nuances, strengthening defence strategies and advocating effectively for the best possible outcomes.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"]Background
Anish holds law practice licenses in both India and Ontario, Canada. Originally from New Delhi, India, he moved to Canada a few years ago. He brings a diverse background and international legal experience to complex legal challenges. Anish is deeply passionate about criminal defense, advocating for his clients with unwavering dedication and a commitment to justice. Anish is currently expanding his expertise in cybersecurity, recognizing the growing intersection of technology and criminal law. He also maintains a keen interest in aviation law, exploring its regulatory frameworks and legal challenges, and focuses on Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) matters also, assisting clients with regulatory matters regarding workplace safety regulations and compliance.
Interests
Outside of his legal pursuits, Anish loves to indulge in his passion for movies, television shows, and drone-based aerial photography. His enthusiasm for technology and his advocacy for environmental causes showcase his wide-range of interests and his multifaceted personality.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"]Experience
Growing up in a family with a rich tradition of involvement in administrative and legal sectors, Anish had the unique opportunity to witness the dynamics of societal order since his early days.
As a first-generation immigrant to Canada, Anish understands the challenges faced by newcomers in adapting to new environments and aims to practice law across multiple jurisdictions. He empathizes with the unique requirements of marginalized groups and visible minorities in Western society, striving to secure justice for everyone and advocate for their genuine causes.
Anish is developing his expertise in Criminal Law, with a particular interest in serious charges such as sexual assault, fraud, and firearms offences. He also has a keen interest in cybercrime and technology-related offenses.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Environmental Protection Act and Related Offences in Canada
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT AND RELATED OFFENCES IN CANADA" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/fecsiuPSJsc-unsplash.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font_size="19px" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" custom_css_free_form="selector a{||  color: black;||}" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Understanding the Environmental Protection Act
The Environmental Protection Act (EPA) in Canada is a cornerstone of the nation’s efforts to safeguard the environment. This legislation outlines the responsibilities of individuals and businesses to prevent environmental harm, manage pollutants, and adhere to sustainable practices. Violating the EPA can lead to significant legal and financial consequences, as well as damage to reputation.
Federal Act
https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-15.31/
Provincial Act
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90e19[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Common Offences Under the Environmental Protection Act[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Unauthorized Discharge of Contaminants
Releasing pollutants into the air, water, or soil without proper authorization is a direct violation of the EPA.
Improper Waste Management
Failing to dispose of hazardous or non-hazardous waste in compliance with established regulations can result in serious penalties.
Failure to Comply with Permits
Operating facilities or conducting activities outside the scope of environmental permits is a common infraction.
Neglecting Environmental Assessments
Undertaking projects without conducting the required environmental impact assessments or ignoring mitigation measures can lead to charges.
Penalties for Environmental Protection Act Violations
The penalties for breaching the EPA are designed to deter non-compliance and promote environmental stewardship. They include:
Fines: Financial penalties that can range from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the gravity of the offence.
Imprisonment: Severe violations, such as willful contamination, may result in jail time for responsible parties.
Restoration Orders: Offenders may be required to restore or remediate damaged environments.
Corporate Liability: Businesses may face additional sanctions, including suspension of operations and reputational harm.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]How Armoured Suits Can Help[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Environmental laws are intricate and often intersect with various provincial and federal regulations. At Armoured Suits, we provide expert legal assistance to individuals and organizations facing EPA-related allegations. Our services include:
Comprehensive Legal Advice: Helping you understand your responsibilities and rights under the EPA.
Custom Defence Strategies: Crafting personalized approaches to challenge charges and minimize repercussions.
Negotiations: Engaging with regulators and enforcement bodies to explore settlements or reduced penalties.
Court Representation: Vigorously defending your case to achieve the best possible outcome.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Why Choose Armoured Suits?[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]With extensive experience in environmental law, our team is dedicated to protecting your interests while promoting compliance with environmental standards. We prioritize clear communication and a results-driven approach to achieve the best possible resolution for your case.
If you or your business is facing charges under the Environmental Protection Act, contact Armoured Suits today. Our knowledgeable legal team is ready to provide the guidance and defence you need to safeguard your rights and future.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us Today[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]If you are facing a criminal harassment charge, contact Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers immediately. We will thoroughly investigate your case, build a solid defence, and fight aggressively to protect your rights.
Thoroughly investigate the evidence: We examine the Crown's case to identify weaknesses and inconsistencies.
Build a strong defense: We develop effective strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
Protect your rights: We ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
Provide support and guidance: We offer compassionate support and explain the legal process clearly.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Us Button" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Tobacco Tax Act and Cigarette Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="Tobacco Tax Act and Cigarette Offences in Canada" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_level="h1" header_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/cigarette-offences-ontario-1.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_position="bottom_center" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.3" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||60px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Understanding the Tobacco Tax Act[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" link_font="||||on||||" link_text_color="#FFFFFF" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"]The Tobacco Tax Act is a critical piece of legislation in Canada designed to regulate the sale, distribution, and taxation of tobacco products. This Act aims to prevent illegal activities such as smuggling and tax evasion while ensuring compliance with public health objectives. Violations under the Tobacco Tax Act can result in severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the seizure of assets.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" header_4_font="|600|||||||" global_colors_info="{}"]Common Offences Under the Tobacco Tax Act
Possession of Unstamped Tobacco Products
Possessing tobacco products without the required tax stamps is a direct violation of the Act. This includes cigarettes, cigars, and loose tobacco intended for sale.
Smuggling Tobacco Across Borders
Importing or exporting tobacco products without proper declaration or payment of applicable duties and taxes is a significant offence.
Unauthorized Sale of Tobacco
Selling tobacco products without a valid retailer's permit or outside the scope of a licensed establishment is prohibited.
Production Without Licensing
Manufacturing tobacco products without the necessary permits and compliance with regulatory requirements can lead to severe consequences.
 [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]How Armoured Suits Can Help
Navigating the complexities of the Tobacco Tax Act requires a thorough understanding of both provincial and federal laws. At Armoured Suits, our experienced legal team is well-versed in defending clients against allegations related to cigarette and tobacco offenses. Here’s how we can assist:
Legal Advice: Providing clear, concise guidance on your rights and obligations under the law.
Defense Strategy: Developing a tailored approach to challenge charges and minimize potential penalties.
Negotiations: Representing you in discussions with law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities to seek favorable outcomes.
Court Representation: Advocating vigorously on your behalf in court to ensure a fair trial and protect your interests.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" header_4_font="|600|||||||" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalties for Tobacco Tax Act Violations
The penalties for offenses under the Tobacco Tax Act vary depending on the nature and severity of the violation. Potential consequences include:
Fines: Monetary penalties ranging from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the scale of the offense.
Imprisonment: Offenders may face jail time for serious violations, such as smuggling or large-scale tax evasion.
Asset Seizure: Confiscation of vehicles, equipment, or other assets used in the commission of the offense.
Criminal Record: A conviction under the Tobacco Tax Act can result in a permanent criminal record, impacting future employment and travel opportunities.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Why Choose Armoured Suits?
Our firm combines legal expertise with a client-focused approach, ensuring that you receive the best possible defense. We understand the high stakes involved in tobacco-related offenses and are committed to helping you achieve the most favorable resolution.
Contact Armoured Suits
 
If you or someone you know is facing charges under the Tobacco Tax Act, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Armoured Suits today for a confidential consultation and let us help protect your rights and future.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Provincial Offences
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button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="Provincial Offences" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_level="h1" header_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="50" body_font="Roboto||||" body_font_size="22" body_line_height="1em" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#363636" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20px" button_font="Roboto||||" button_use_icon="on" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="off" custom_padding="||||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="50" header_font_size_phone="50" header_line_height_tablet="1em" header_line_height_phone="1em" body_font_size_tablet="22" body_font_size_phone="22" body_line_height_tablet="1em" body_line_height_phone="1em" custom_css_main_element="text-align:center !important;||margin:10px auto;" custom_css_slide_button="text-align:center;||margin:25px auto;" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" custom_css_slide_container_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_slide_container_phone="padding-top: 32px;" custom_css_main_element_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_main_element_tablet="text-align:center !important;||margin:10px auto;" custom_css_main_element_phone="text-align:center !important;||margin:10px auto;" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ffffff" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" max_width="1440px" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="bottom" animation_intensity_slide="6%" animation_starting_opacity="100%" border_color_all="#e02b20" border_width_top="4px" box_shadow_style="preset3" box_shadow_vertical="39px" box_shadow_blur="80px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" use_custom_width="on" custom_width_px="1440px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Liquor Licence and Control Act of Ontario (LLCA)" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5"]The Liquor Licence and Control Act governs the sale and consumption of alcohol in Ontario. Violations, such as selling to minors or operating without a valid license, can result in significant fines and legal penalties. Non-compliance can jeopardize your business's license and reputation.[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/defence/liquor-licence-act-ontario/" button_text="Learn more" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_button="on" button_text_size="13px" button_text_color="#E02B20" button_bg_color="rgba(60,57,230,0.03)" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="6px" button_letter_spacing="1px" button_font="Lato|700||on|||||" button_use_icon="off" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="10px|30px|10px|30px" button_letter_spacing_hover="1px" button_bg_color_hover="rgba(60,57,230,0.2)" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="1px" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="rgba(224,43,32,0.08)" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5"]The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) is a provincial law in Ontario that sets standards for workplace safety. Employers must comply with OHSA regulations to protect workers from injuries and illnesses. Failure to do so can lead to serious consequences, including hefty fines and potential charges.[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/defence/regulatory-offences/" button_text="Learn more" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_button="on" button_text_size="13px" button_text_color="#E02B20" button_bg_color="rgba(60,57,230,0.03)" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="6px" button_letter_spacing="1px" button_font="Lato|700||on|||||" button_use_icon="off" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="10px|30px|10px|30px" button_letter_spacing_hover="1px" button_bg_color_hover="rgba(60,57,230,0.2)" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="1px" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="rgba(224,43,32,0.08)" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ffffff" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" max_width="1440px" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="bottom" animation_intensity_slide="6%" animation_starting_opacity="100%" hover_enabled="0" border_color_all="#e02b20" border_width_top="4px" box_shadow_style="preset3" box_shadow_vertical="39px" box_shadow_blur="80px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" use_custom_width="on" custom_width_px="1440px" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Ontario Highway Traffic Act " image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" hover_enabled="0" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5" module_id="highwaytraffic" sticky_enabled="0"]The Ontario Highway Traffic Act governs traffic laws in Ontario, including rules for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Violations can result in fines, demerit points, and even license suspension. Careless driving can endanger lives and lead to severe penalties.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Ontario Provincial Offences Act " image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5"]This Act outlines the procedures for prosecuting provincial offences in Ontario. It covers a wide range of offenses, including traffic violations (such as speeding, running red lights, or driving without a license), liquor license violations, and minor criminal offenses like trespassing or mischief. Violations can result in fines, demerit points, license suspension, or even jail time.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ffffff" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" max_width="1440px" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="bottom" animation_intensity_slide="6%" animation_starting_opacity="100%" hover_enabled="0" border_color_all="#e02b20" border_width_top="4px" box_shadow_style="preset3" box_shadow_vertical="39px" box_shadow_blur="80px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" use_custom_width="on" custom_width_px="1440px" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Ontario Dog Owner's Liability Act " image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" hover_enabled="0" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5" module_id="dogliability" sticky_enabled="0"]This Act governs dog ownership in Ontario and holds owners liable for damages caused by their dogs. Incidents, such as failing to leash your dog or allowing it to bite someone, can have a severe impact on victims, both physically and emotionally. Therefore, violations can result in significant fines and even charges.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Ontario Environmental Protection Act" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" admin_label="EPA" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" hover_enabled="0" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5" sticky_enabled="0" module_id="epa"]The Ontario Environmental Protection Act aims to protect Ontario's environment. It regulates activities that may harm the environment, such as pollution and waste disposal. Polluting the environment can have devastating consequences for ecosystems and public health, therefore violations can lead to significant fines and potential charges.[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/environmental-protection-act/" button_text="Learn more" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_button="on" button_text_size="13px" button_text_color="#E02B20" button_bg_color="rgba(60,57,230,0.03)" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="6px" button_letter_spacing="1px" button_font="Lato|700||on|||||" button_use_icon="off" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="10px|30px|10px|30px" button_letter_spacing_hover="1px" button_bg_color_hover="rgba(60,57,230,0.2)" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="1px" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="rgba(224,43,32,0.08)" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ffffff" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" max_width="1440px" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="bottom" animation_intensity_slide="6%" animation_starting_opacity="100%" hover_enabled="0" border_color_all="#e02b20" border_width_top="4px" box_shadow_style="preset3" box_shadow_vertical="39px" box_shadow_blur="80px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" use_custom_width="on" custom_width_px="1440px" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Ontario Fire Protection and Prevention Act" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" hover_enabled="0" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5" sticky_enabled="0"]This Act regulates fire safety in Ontario, including building codes and fire prevention measures. Violations, such as failing to comply with fire safety regulations or causing a fire through negligence, can result in fines, criminal charges, even imprisonment.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Ontario Technical Standards and Services Act" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" hover_enabled="0" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5" sticky_enabled="0" module_id="technicalstandards"]This Act sets standards for products and services in Ontario. It aims to ensure public safety and protect consumers from dangerous or defective products. Non-compliance can put public safety at risk and damage a company's reputation, and violations can result in fines and product recalls.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ffffff" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" max_width="1440px" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="bottom" animation_intensity_slide="6%" animation_starting_opacity="100%" hover_enabled="0" border_color_all="#e02b20" border_width_top="4px" box_shadow_style="preset3" box_shadow_vertical="39px" box_shadow_blur="80px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" use_custom_width="on" custom_width_px="1440px" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Ontario Trespass to Property Act" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" module_id="trespass" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" hover_enabled="0" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5" sticky_enabled="0"]This Act outlines the legal rights of property owners and tenants in Ontario. It prohibits unauthorized entry onto property and can lead to charges and fines. Trespassing can disrupt businesses, damage property, and lead to legal action.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Peace Bond" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" hover_enabled="0" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5" sticky_enabled="0"]A peace bond is a court order that requires a person to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It may be used to protect someone from harm or property damage and can include conditions like avoiding certain people or places. While peace bonds may not result in a criminal record, violating the conditions can lead to serious legal consequences.[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/defence/peace-bond/" button_text="Learn more" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_button="on" button_text_size="13px" button_text_color="#E02B20" button_bg_color="rgba(60,57,230,0.03)" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="6px" button_letter_spacing="1px" button_font="Lato|700||on|||||" button_use_icon="off" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="10px|30px|10px|30px" hover_enabled="0" button_letter_spacing_hover="1px" button_bg_color_hover="rgba(60,57,230,0.2)" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="1px" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="rgba(224,43,32,0.08)" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ffffff" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" max_width="1440px" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="bottom" animation_intensity_slide="6%" animation_starting_opacity="100%" border_color_all="#e02b20" border_width_top="4px" box_shadow_style="preset3" box_shadow_vertical="39px" box_shadow_blur="80px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" use_custom_width="on" custom_width_px="1440px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="The Competition Act" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" module_id="competition" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5"]The Competition Act is a federal law in Canada that prohibits anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing and market manipulation. Violations of the Competition Act can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. Engaging in anti-competitive behavior can harm consumers and stifle innovation.[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/defence/regulatory-offences/" button_text="Learn more" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_button="on" button_text_size="13px" button_text_color="#E02B20" button_bg_color="rgba(60,57,230,0.03)" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="6px" button_letter_spacing="1px" button_font="Lato|700||on|||||" button_use_icon="off" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="10px|30px|10px|30px" button_letter_spacing_hover="1px" button_bg_color_hover="rgba(60,57,230,0.2)" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="1px" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="rgba(224,43,32,0.08)" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Tobacco Tax Act and Cigarette Offences" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5"]This Act governs the taxation of tobacco products sold in Ontario, including cigarettes, cigars, and raw leaf tobacco. This legislation outlines the tax rates applicable to these products and establishes the rules for their sale and distribution. Violations of the Tobacco Tax Act, such as selling untaxed tobacco or failing to comply with licensing requirements, can result in significant fines and penalties.[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/defence/tobacco-tax-act/" button_text="Learn more" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_button="on" button_text_size="13px" button_text_color="#E02B20" button_bg_color="rgba(60,57,230,0.03)" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="6px" button_letter_spacing="1px" button_font="Lato|700||on|||||" button_use_icon="off" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="10px|30px|10px|30px" button_letter_spacing_hover="1px" button_bg_color_hover="rgba(60,57,230,0.2)" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="1px" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="rgba(224,43,32,0.08)" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ffffff" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" max_width="1440px" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="bottom" animation_intensity_slide="6%" animation_starting_opacity="100%" border_color_all="#e02b20" border_width_top="4px" box_shadow_style="preset3" box_shadow_vertical="39px" box_shadow_blur="80px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" use_custom_width="on" custom_width_px="1440px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act" image_icon_background_color="#bdc1c9" icon_placement="left" image_icon_width="40px" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="--et_global_heading_font|900||on|||||" header_text_align="left" header_font_size="20px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_line_height="2em" body_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" body_text_align="left" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="16px" body_line_height="1.6em" image_icon_custom_padding="25px|25px|25px|25px|false|false" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="|||" custom_padding="15px||30px||false|false" animation="off" border_radii_image="on|100%|100%|100%|100%" icon_font_size="40px" use_circle="on" circle_color="#bdc1c9" global_colors_info="{}" image_icon_background_color__sticky_enabled="#7EBEC5" image_icon_background_color__sticky="#7EBEC5"]The Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act mandates that all motor vehicles operating in Ontario must be insured. Driving without insurance is illegal and can lead to serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even vehicle impoundment.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" background_color="RGBA(255,255,255,0)" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" background_enable_color="off" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="How To Help Form" module_class="lexiform" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" background_color="RGBA(255,255,255,0)" global_colors_info="{}"]Tell Us More About Your Situation
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[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_enable_color="off" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||5px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Case Study Shortcode" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"] R. v. Levant – Careless Use of FirearmLate on February 12th, OPP were contacted See cases results  R. v. Page – Driving While SuspendedOn March 3rd, Cst. Fraser was on See cases results  R. v. Johnstone – Impaired DrivingOn the morning of August 27th, OPP See cases results  R. v. Jacobs – Assault / ChokingOn November 17th, 2024, Ottawa Police located See cases results  R. v. Mohammed – AssaultIn the early hours of December 17th, See cases results  R. v. Stanfield – Dangerous Operation of a Motor VehicleOn December 27th, police responded to a See cases results  R. v. Witfield – Careless DrivingOne evening, Rideau Lakes OPP were contacted See cases results  R. v. Moore – Impaired DrivingJust before 6am on April 16th, Special See cases results  R. v. Whitmore – Impaired DrivingOn the afternoon of May 14th, police See cases results  R. v. Anderson – Break and Enter, MischiefOn March 24th, Lanark County OPP were See cases results  R. v. MH – Possession of Child PornographyA and M, both youths, had been See cases results  R. v. Henderson – Theft Under $5000For a period of time, Sara was See cases results  R. v. Anderson – Assault and MischiefLarry and Samantha had been in a See cases results  R. v. Armand – Sexual AssaultThomas is the uncle of the victim See cases results  R. v. Smith – Impaired DrivingOn November 18, 2024, Conrad entered Holy See cases results  R. v. HarmandStephen and his brother, Eric, worked together. See cases results  R. v. Lebeau – AssaultJaques and Amanda were in an on See cases results  R. v. Wan – Assault and MischiefCheng and Min married in China 4 See cases results  R. v. Hartford – AssaultOn February 25th, Karen was at her See cases results  R. v. Lacroise – Careless Driving and AssaultOn the evening of February 8th, Lanark See cases results  R. v. Lamore – AssaultOn February 3rd, 2025, in the city See cases results  R. v. Hamilton – AssaultOn January 20th, 2024, in the Township See cases results  R. v. Baker – AssaultOn April 29th, 2023, at the Dover See cases results  R. v. Emily Smith – Impaired DrivingOn the evening of February 8th, Emily See cases results  R. v. Barton – AssaultOn December 18, 2024, Liam* was assaulted See cases results  R. v. Sharpton – AssaultIn the early hours of January 18, See cases results  R. v. Lucy Stone – Theft Under $5000At approximately 11:45am on May 4th, Hello See cases results  R. v. Mendez – Domestic AssaultShortly after 1am on July 14th, military See cases results  R. v. Johnson – AssaultLate in the evening of July 31st, See cases results  R. v. Johnson – Sexual Assault, HarassmentOn April 29th, OPP received a call See cases results  R. v. Lang – Driving while suspendedOn the afternoon of April 29th, Cst. See cases results  R. v. Harris – Stunt drivingOn May 25th, Cst. Cunningham was working See cases results  R. v. Smith – Driving while suspendedOn June 20th, Cst. Gobraeil was on See cases results  R. v. Sanchez – Domestic AssaultFrancisco and Elena had been in a See cases results  R. v. Wang – Mischief, Assault, Forcible ConfinementSam and Malia were married, with a See cases results  R. v. Murphy – Assault with a Weapon, Attempt to Obstruct JusticeIn August 2021, a massive group of See cases results  R. v. Saunders – Possession for the Purpose of TraffickingIn early March 2021, the JIT received See cases results  R. v. Aarons – Sexual Assault, Criminal HarassmentDavid and Sarah were in a relationship See cases results  R. v. Conners – Breach Probation for POA SummonsIn January 2022, Jared became subject to See cases results  R. v. Griffen – Breach of ProbationIn September 2021, while representing himself, Jon See cases results  R. v. Santos – ImpairedFrank was driving his pickup truck in See cases results  R. v. StevensonOn the afternoon of February 25th, Larry See cases results  R. v. Karlov – Drug Trafficking – YouthIn March 2021, the Street Crimes Unit See cases results  R. v. FreezenIn the early morning of July 3, See cases results  R.v. Marsh – Breach of ProbationOn May 11, 2022, Gatineau police were See cases results  R. v. Lamarche – Quebec Sexual AssaultGeoff and Leslie had been in a See cases results  R. v. Warren – 810 HearingIn April 2021, Sean had been sentenced See cases results  R. v. Morris – Domestic assault, mischiefJenna had been in a long term See cases results  R. v. Rasken – Drug Trafficking, Possession of stolen property over $5,000In September 2020, OPP were conducting a See cases results  R. v. Brooke – Sexual Assault, Sexual InterferenceIn 2002, while still a youth, Shane See cases results  R. v. Sharpe – DUI, impaired drivingIn July 2021, an SUV was involved See cases results  R. v. Wilson – Criminal Harassment, Assault, Mischief under $5,000Cassie was in an on-again off-again relationship See cases results  R. v. Selim – Assault, Utter threat to Cause DeathEhud and Karen have been in a See cases results  R. v. Shirley – AssaultSarah and Nick were home on a See cases results  R. v. Carson – Impaired, Careless drivingLate on a March evening, police were See cases results  R. v. Parson – AssaultAlice and Dan were in a common See cases results  R. v. Browning – Uttering threats/death or bodily harmAdam and Jen met in 2002, married See cases results  R. v. Brean – Fraud OverIn September 2019, a realty business located See cases results  R. v. DeshoreAaron was completing some last minute Christmas See cases results  R. v. Smith – AssaultChuck and the victim, Aaron, had been See cases results  R. v. Grayson – Liquor LicenceBrian is the owner of a local See cases results  R. v. Walsh – Sexual Assault et alIn January 2021, Gary was residing with See cases results  R. v. Brown – Harrassing TelecommunicationsIn September 2020, Jessica ended a one See cases results  R. v. Merrick – AssaultChristine and Barry have been married for See cases results  R. v. Lornas – Sexual AssaultDerek and Sharon have a young daughter See cases results  R. v. HarrisonCharlie and Susan were in a relationship See cases results  R. v. NortonThe complainant, Ashley, had recently moved to See cases results  R. v. ClemensNancy was in a relationship with Claire. See cases results  R. v. WhalenChris entered a bank branch in order See cases results  R. v. LawrenceBrian was in a relationship with Shannon. See cases results  R. v. DarrensKevin was in the midst of a See cases results  R. v. AleshMohammed was in his home, drinking with See cases results  Historical Indecent Assault Charge – R. v. SmithSexual Assault Facts: Frank is a 69 See cases results  Assault – R. v. McLeanAssault Facts: In December 2016, after an See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. HickeyDomestic Mischief Facts: Joey and Pamela were See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. BrightonDomestic Assault Facts: Alfred and Janice have See cases results  Break and Enter and Assault on Police Officer – R. v. StanislavskiBreak and Enter and Assault on Police See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. JamesDomestic Mischief Facts: Mary and Dan were See cases results  Uttering Threats, Criminal Harrassment, Possession of a Weapon – R. v. RigourUttering Threats, Criminal Harassment, Possession of Weapon See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. BentovolioDomestic Assault Facts: Mark and his girlfriend See cases results  Drug Possession – R. v. JacksonDrug Possession - Young Offender Facts: Jason, See cases results  Stolen Credit Card – R. v. AdamsPossession of stolen credit cards: Mickey was See cases results  Criminal Harassment – R. v. MorrettiLuciano was a Canadian Forces member having See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. MustafaClient Acquitted for Domestic Assault Charges Ali See cases results  Firearms Offence – R. v. MortimerBilly was being driven around by his See cases results  Impaired Driving – R. v. MirskyImpaired Driving: A person who the police See cases results  Drug Trafficking – R. v. JonesClient, Mike, had been dealing cocaine to See cases results  Theft – R. v. HolmesFreddy is a 16 year old living See cases results  Theft – R. v. SmithTheft over $5,000: John was charged with See cases results  Sexual Assault – R. v. MatthewsSexual Assault: Tim, a 15 year old, See cases results  Robbery – R. v. MasonRobbery: Brian, a 15 year old, had See cases results  Breach of Bail Conditions – R. v. MosesSchool-yard Scuffle: Assault (S. 266 of the See cases results  Fraud Case – R. v. ColumbiaMr. and Mrs. Columbia, recent immigrants to See cases results  Drug Possession – R. v. JohnsonPossession of schedule II substance: Mickey was See cases results  Drug Possession – R. v. MartinezFred was driving in his car when See cases results  Theft – R. v. McDonaldTheft:  Gary, a seventeen year old student, See cases results PreviousNext[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Seizure and Forfeiture
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="SEIZURE AND FORFEITURE" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/padlock_cropped2.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_blend="darken" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_line_height="2em" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"]Seizure and forfeiture are complex legal processes that can have severe consequences for individuals and businesses in Ontario. Understanding these processes and your rights is crucial if you are facing or fear the potential for seizure and forfeiture.
Understanding the Seizure Process
Search Warrants: Law enforcement typically uses search warrants to seize property suspected of being involved in criminal activity.
Detention and Investigation: Seized property may be detained for a period of time while law enforcement conducts further investigations.
Forfeiture Proceedings: If the Crown believes the property should be forfeited, they will initiate legal proceedings.
Types of Forfeiture
Criminal Forfeiture: Occurs as part of a criminal conviction. The Crown must prove the property is connected to the crime.
Civil Forfeiture: Occurs under separate civil law processes, not related to criminal charges. The Crown must prove the property is:
Proceeds of crime
An instrument of crime (used to commit a crime)
Common Scenarios for Seizure and Forfeiture
Drug-Related Offences: Seizing assets linked to drug trafficking, production, or possession.Money Laundering: Seizing property believed to be the proceeds of money laundering activities.
Tax Evasion: Seizing property suspected of being acquired through tax evasion.
Organized Crime: Targeting assets associated with organized crime groups.
Impact of Seizure and Forfeiture
Seizure and forfeiture can have significant financial and personal consequences, including:
Personal & Financial Hardship: Consequences often include severe personal hardship, affecting your ability to pay bills, maintain a standard of living, and support your family.
Reputational Damage: Being involved in a seizure and forfeiture case can damage your reputation, making it difficult to obtain loans, credit, or employment.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_line_height="2em" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"]Legal Strategies & Defences
Seizure and forfeiture are complex legal matters. It is essential to seek immediate representation with a skilled and experienced criminal defence lawyer. They will explore options to build a strong defence, which may include:
Challenging the Seizure: It may be possible to challenge the legality of the seizure if it was conducted improperly.
Proving Innocence: Demonstrating that you are not the owner of the property or that it is not connected to criminal activity.
Negotiating with the Crown: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a settlement with the Crown to avoid or reduce the forfeiture.
FAQ: Proceeds of Crime and Return of Seized Property
Can the police seize my property without a warrant?Generally, no. However, there are exceptions, such as in cases of hot pursuit or exigent circumstances.
What happens if I am found not guilty in a criminal case?Even if you are acquitted, the Crown may still pursue civil forfeiture proceedings.
What are the grounds for forfeiture?The Crown must prove that the property is connected to a criminal offense and that it is a "proceed of crime."
What are "proceeds of crime"?Proceeds of crime are any property, benefit, or advantage obtained or derived from criminal activity. This can include real estate, cash, digital currency, assets, or other tangible or intangible benefits.
How can I get my seized property back?To get your seized property back, you may need to file an application with the court. You may also need to provide evidence to prove your lawful ownership or possession of the property.
Can I get my seized property back after a conviction?In certain circumstances, it may be possible to seek the return of seized property, but this can be a complex process.
Can I use the seized property to pay for legal fees?In certain circumstances, you may be able to use seized property to pay for legal fees. However, this will depend on the specific facts of your case and the applicable laws.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_line_height="2em" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits: Committed to Protecting Your RightsIf you are facing seizure and forfeiture, do not face these charges alone. Armoured Suits can provide you with the representation you need to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today for a free 30-minute consultation.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.0.87" border_style="solid" global_module="2914" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us
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### Sexual Interference
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="SEXUAL INTERFERENCE" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/interference-charges-court.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_position="bottom_center" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"]Sexual interference is a serious criminal offense involving sexual activity with a person under the age of consent. This crime carries severe legal and personal consequences.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="What is..." _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is Sexual Interference?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" link_text_color="#FFFFFF" background_layout="dark" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Under the Criminal Code of Canada, sexual interference occurs when an adult touches a person under 16 years old for a sexual purpose. This contact can be direct (e.g., with hands) or indirect (e.g., with an object). The law focuses on the adult's intent, not necessarily the child's perception.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Penalties" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalties for Sexual Interference[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]Convictions for sexual interference result in severe penalties, including:
Mandatory minimum sentences: The Criminal Code imposes mandatory minimum jail terms for these offenses. As of 2019, this is currently in abeyance in many provinces.
Imprisonment: Up to 14 years for indictable offenses, or up to two years less a day for summary conviction offenses.
Sex offender registry: Convicted individuals must register as sex offenders, leading to decades-long (and sometimes lifelong) restrictions and social stigma.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impact" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The Impact on Your Life[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]Beyond legal consequences, a sexual interference charge can have a devastating impact on your life. You may face:
Social isolation: Loss of friends, family, and community support.
Job loss: Difficulty maintaining employment due to the nature of the charges.
Psychological distress: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Defences" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Can Help[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]Facing a sexual interference charge is overwhelming. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights and build a strong defense. At Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers, our team of experienced lawyers understands the complexities of sexual interference cases. We will:
Thoroughly investigate the evidence: We scrutinize the Crown's case to identify weaknesses and inconsistencies.
Build a strong defense: We develop effective strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
Protect your rights: We ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
Provide support and guidance: We offer compassionate support and explain the legal process clearly.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us Today[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]If you or someone you know is facing a sexual interference charge, time is of the essence. Contact Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers for a confidential consultation.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Us Button" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Arson
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="ARSON" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_level="h1" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/karl-callwood-5Wo-2JNnBaQ-resized.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is Arson?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" link_text_color="#FFFFFF" background_layout="dark" custom_padding="||40px||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Arson is defined under the Criminal Code of Canada as "intentionally or recklessly causing damage to property by fire or explosion." There are several types of arson, each with its own set of circumstances and penalties.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Arson Video" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_video src="https://youtu.be/Nbe0IcsSgks" module_class="video" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Types" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Types of Arson[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text ul_item_indent="15px" _builder_version="4.27.0" ul_line_height="2em" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]
Arson with disregard for human life (Section 433): This is the most serious type of arson, carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. It applies when someone intentionally or recklessly sets fire to a property, knowing it's inhabited, or if the fire causes bodily harm to another person.
Arson of property not wholly owned by the accused (Section 434): This carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment and applies when someone damages property they don't entirely own by setting fire to it.
Arson of property partially or wholly owned by the accused (Section 434.1): This carries a maximum sentence of 14 years imprisonment and applies when someone sets fire to their own property, recklessly endangering the health, safety, or property of others.
Arson with intent to defraud (Section 435): This carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and applies when someone sets fire to their property or another person's property with the intention of obtaining insurance money or other financial benefits.
Arson by negligence (Section 436): This carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment and applies when someone negligently causes a fire on their property that damages another person or property.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impact" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The Impact of Arson Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]An arson conviction can have severe consequences, including:
Significant jail time
Financial penalties
Damage to your reputation
Difficulty finding employment or housing
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Defences" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences to Arson Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]While every case is unique, there are potential defences to an arson charge, including:
Lack of intent: Demonstrating you did not intend to start the fire, or that you were not reckless in your actions. 
Alibi: Proving you were not at the scene of the fire when it started. 
Mistake of fact: You honestly believed that your actions would not cause a fire. For example, if you thought that you were properly extinguishing a campfire, but it accidentally spread, you may not have intended to start a fire.
Duress: You were forced to start the fire against your will.  
Mental disorder: You were suffering from a mental disorder at the time of the fire, and that this disorder prevented you from understanding the nature of your actions. 
It is essential to have a skilled lawyer evaluate your case to determine the best possible defence strategy.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits: Your Defence Against Arson Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]At Armoured Suits, we understand the seriousness of arson charges and the potential impact they can have on your life. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are dedicated to providing you with the strongest possible defence. 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.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Us Button" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Criminal Harassment
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="CRIMINAL HARASSMENT" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/david-east-II2ulqB-118-resized.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is Criminal Harassment?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" link_text_color="#FFFFFF" background_layout="dark" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Under the Criminal Code of Canada, criminal harassment occurs when someone engages in repeated actions that:
Follow another person from place to place
Communicate with another person repeatedly
Watches or besets a person's home or workplace
Engages in threatening behavior towards someone
These actions must cause the victim to fear for their safety, or the safety of others.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Penalties" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalties for Criminal Harassment[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Convictions for criminal harassment can result in severe penalties, including:
Imprisonment: Up to 10 years for indictable offenses.
Other consequences: DNA orders, weapons prohibitions, loss of employment, damage to reputation, and ongoing fear for safety.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impact" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The Impact on Your Life[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Being accused of criminal harassment can have a devastating impact on your life. You may face:
Social isolation: Loss of friends, family, and community support.
Job loss: Difficulty maintaining employment due to the nature of the charges.
Psychological distress: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_main_element="display:flex;" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Defences" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences to Uttering Threats Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]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.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Can Help[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_css_free_form="selector ul li { margin-top:6px; }" global_colors_info="{}"]A criminal harassment charge is serious and requires a skilled defense lawyer. At Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers, our team specializes in defending clients against criminal harassment charges. We will:
Thoroughly investigate the evidence: We examine the Crown's case to identify weaknesses and inconsistencies.
Build a strong defense: We develop effective strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
Protect your rights: We ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
Provide support and guidance: We offer compassionate support and explain the legal process clearly.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us Today[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]If you are facing a criminal harassment charge, contact Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers immediately. We will thoroughly investigate your case, build a solid defence, and fight aggressively to protect your rights.
Thoroughly investigate the evidence: We examine the Crown's case to identify weaknesses and inconsistencies.
Build a strong defense: We develop effective strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
Protect your rights: We ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
Provide support and guidance: We offer compassionate support and explain the legal process clearly.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Us Button" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Mischief
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="MISCHIEF" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/hans-ripa-3GxTbjTcer0-resized.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is Mischief?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" link_text_color="#FFFFFF" background_layout="dark" custom_padding="||40px||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Mischief is a criminal offence under the Criminal Code of Canada that involves intentionally damaging or interfering with property that belongs to another person. This can range from acts of vandalism, such as spray-painting graffiti on a building, to more complex offences like cyberbullying or damaging computer systems. The severity of the charge depends on the extent of the damage and the circumstances surrounding the incident.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Mischief Video" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_video src="https://youtu.be/-8OwaGB8pT8" module_class="video" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impact" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The Impact of a Mischief Conviction[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]A mischief conviction can have serious consequences for your life. A criminal record can negatively impact your employment opportunities, housing options, and even your ability to travel. Additionally, the financial penalties associated with a mischief conviction can be substantial. It's essential to protect your reputation and future by seeking legal counsel as soon as possible.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Defences" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences to Mischief Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]While every case is unique, there are several potential defences to a mischief charge. These may include:
Wrong person: it wasn’t you who did the damage or caused the interference
Lack of intent: Demonstrating that you did not intentionally cause the damage.
Mistake of fact: Arguing that you honestly believed you had the right to use or interfere with the property.
Duress or necessity: Claiming you were forced to commit the offence due to threats or circumstances beyond your control.
Building a strong defence requires the expertise of a skilled criminal lawyer. At Armoured Suits, we meticulously investigate the details of your case to identify potential defences and develop a robust legal strategy.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits: Your Best Defence Against Mischief Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]At Armoured Suits, we understand the stress and anxiety that comes with facing mischief charges. Our team of experienced criminal defence lawyers is committed to providing you with the highest level of legal representation. We have a proven track record of successfully defending clients accused of mischief, and we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Don't face these charges alone. Contact Armoured Suits today for a free 30 min consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you every step of the way.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Us Button" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Uttering Threats
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="UTTERING THREATS" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/uttering-threats-charge.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What are Uttering Threats?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" link_font="--et_global_body_font||||||||" link_text_color="#FFFFFF" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]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.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impact" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The Impact of Uttering Threats Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]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.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Defences" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences to Uttering Threats Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]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.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Armoured Suits..." _builder_version="4.27.0" text_text_color="#000000" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits: Your Defence Against Uttering Threats Charges[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" global_colors_info="{}"]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.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Us Button" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Hate Crime Charges
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="HATE CRIME CHARGES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hate-crime-charges-defence-lawyers.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" background_blend="darken" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.21.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" text_font="|600|||||||" text_text_color="#FFFFFF" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.8em" text_orientation="center" custom_padding="16px||16px||false|false" border_color_all="#000000" border_width_top="1px" border_width_bottom="1px" global_colors_info="{}"]Ottawa Citizen: Reports of hate motivated incidents in Ottawa jump 23.5 per cent in first half of 2023: Police[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits: Defending Your Rights
Definitions of what constitutes a hate crime are highly variable, and as a consequence, can generate inconsistency in statistics purporting to measure the activity.
According to the Ottawa Police Service, a hate crime is:
A criminal offence committed against a person or property which is motivated by the suspect/offender's hate/bias against a racial, religious, ethnic, sexual orientation or disability group.
Or…
The Criminal Code of Canada describes a hate crime as:
Public incitement of hatred
(1) Every one who, by communicating statements in any public place, incites hatred against any identifiable group where such incitement is likely to lead to a breach of the peace is guilty of
	(a) an indictable offence and is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years; or
	(b) an offence punishable on summary conviction.
Wilful promotion of hatred
(2) Every one who, by communicating statements, other than in private conversation, wilfully promotes hatred against any identifiable group is guilty of
	(a) an indictable offence and is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years; or
	(b) an offence punishable on summary conviction.
We firmly believe in the principles of justice, fairness, and the presumption of innocence. Our team of defense lawyers understands the complexity and sensitivity surrounding these charges. We are committed to providing comprehensive legal support while upholding the rights of our clients throughout the legal proceedings.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Areas of Expertise
As a leading defense law firm, we offer a range of legal services, including:
Legal Representation: We provide aggressive and strategic legal representation for individuals accused of hate crimes. Our experienced defense lawyers will carefully examine the evidence, challenge legal procedures, and build a robust defense to protect your rights and ensure a fair trial.
Case Analysis and Strategy: With a deep understanding of hate crime laws and precedents, we analyze each case methodically. Our skilled lawyers will develop tailored legal strategies to challenge the prosecution's case, uncover any potential biases or errors, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Protection of Constitutional Rights: We vigorously defend our clients' constitutional rights, including freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and the right to a fair trial. Our lawyers are well-versed in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and will utilize this knowledge to safeguard your fundamental liberties.
 [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Defences" _builder_version="4.21.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Client-Centered Approach
At Armoured Suits, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with being accused of a hate crime. Our client-centered approach ensures that you are supported, informed, and involved throughout the legal process. We prioritize open communication, and our dedicated team will address your concerns, answer your questions, and provide honest and realistic advice at every stage.
 
Contact Us
If you or someone you know is facing allegations of a hate crime and requires experienced legal representation, please contact Armoured Suits today. Schedule a confidential consultation with one of our skilled defense lawyers. We will assess your case, explain your legal options, and develop a robust defense strategy to protect your rights.
 
Disclaimer: The content provided on this webpage is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consultation with a qualified defense lawyer is essential to receive accurate and personalized legal guidance. Accessing this webpage does not create an attorney-client relationship.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.0.87" border_style="solid" global_module="2914" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us
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### Child Luring
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.20.2" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="CHILD LURING" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.20.2" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/child-luring-criminal-charges.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_position="bottom_center" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.20.2" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||88px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.20.2" text_font_size="16px" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="|||on|||||" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is Child Luring?
 
Under Canadian law, child luring involves the use of technology with the intent to lure or entice a child under the age of 18 for the purpose of engaging in sexual exploitation, incest, child pornography, and/or sexual assault. There are additional subsets of the law concerning minors under the age of 16 and those under the age of 14[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="CANADIAN CRIMINAL CODE" _builder_version="4.20.2" header_3_font="|||on|||||" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Canadian Criminal Code
Child luring is established under Part V of the Criminal Code relating to “Sexual Offences, Public Morals and Disorderly Conduct”. Section 172.1 of the Canadian Criminal Code prohibits anyone from using a computer or other electronic communication device to communicate with a child for the purpose of committing a sexual offence. The offence can also include arranging to meet a child in person for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity or exploitation.
 [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Examples of Child Luring" _builder_version="4.20.2" header_3_font="|||on|||||" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Examples of Child Luring
	Creating a fake online or social media profile to befriend someone under the age of 18.
	Asking a minor to take and send sexual photos/videos.
	Sending a minor sexually explicit photos/videos, and asking for sexual images/videos of them in return.
	Arranging to meet someone you know (or believe) is under the age of 18 in person.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="WHAT IS THE PUNISHMENT FOR CHILD LURING?" _builder_version="4.20.2" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]WHAT IS THE PUNISHMENT FOR CHILD LURING?
The penalties for child luring in Canada are severe, with potential prison sentences ranging from six months to a maximum of 14 years, depending on the severity of the offence. Individuals convicted of child luring may also be required to register as a sex offender under OSOR and SOIRA. In addition, Section 161 of the Criminal Code permits the court to make an order prohibiting the offender from visiting public parks or pools, or engaging in contact with persons under the age of 16.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="HOW TO DEFEND AGAINST CHILD LURING CHARGES" _builder_version="4.20.2" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]HOW TO DEFEND AGAINST CHILD LURING CHARGES
Very few people admit to knowingly luring a child (usually a teenager). Because of stigma (and the likely jail sentence and criminal record) those accused of child luring will often deny having done it. Therefore, these cases do not frequently result in guilty pleas. Rather, child luring charges will most often be contested in court.
Defences include 1) identity (that it was not them who operated the computer); 2) reasonably believing they were older (and making all reasonable efforts to ascertain the age); and 3) Charter-based defences (seeking exclusion of evidence based upon illegal police conduct).
Police often pretend to be underage children as a way to catch people who are breaking the law. They have the authority to do this, and it doesn't always mean that the charges against the offenders will be dropped.
Individuals charged with child luring, regardless of the conviction outcome, often face long-lasting stigma and far-reaching consequences.  
For this reason, it is imperative that you speak to an experienced criminal lawyer as soon as you become aware of the fact you have been charged or are under investigation. Laws in this area are very strict and some convictions receive mandatory prison sentences.
If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime related to child luring, contact Armoured Suits immediately. Our legal team has the knowledge and experience to provide you with the best possible strategy. 
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### Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" background_color="#000000" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/criminal-defence-lawyers-ontario.jpg" custom_margin="0px||0px||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_5,3_5,1_5" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" background_color="RGBA(255,255,255,0)" max_width="none" custom_padding="|16px||16px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_5" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="3_5" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" header_2_font="Roboto|800||on|||||" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_2_font_size="150px" header_2_letter_spacing="1px" hover_enabled="0" header_2_text_shadow_style="preset1" global_colors_info="{}" header_2_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" sticky_enabled="0" header_2_font_size_phone="120px" custom_margin_last_edited="on|phone" custom_margin_phone="35px||||false|false" header_2_font_size_tablet="150px"]Suit Up[/et_pb_text][et_pb_code admin_label="Anchor Select" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" text_orientation="center" max_width="70%" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us[/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_5" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" background_enable_color="off" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/criminal-charges-lawyer.jpg" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,1_2,1_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" background_color="RGBA(255,255,255,0)" width="100%" max_width="none" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="|16px||16px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Slogan Area" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" text_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_line_height="1.2em" header_3_text_align="center" header_3_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_3_font_size="28px" header_3_line_height="1.3em" global_colors_info="{}"]Under Investigation? Arrested?Criminally Charged?DON'T GIVE UP. SUIT UP![/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" text_text_color="#FFFFFF" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_3_text_color="#FFFFFF" global_colors_info="{}"]Criminal charges are a life-changing event. The result can have a long-term impact on various parts of your personal and professional life. If you're confronting criminal charges or an investigation, you need Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers.
Our team has experience defending clients charged with a wide range of offences, from simple assault, impaired driving, or fraud, to sexual assaults, drug trafficking, or murder. We have the skills, determination and efficiency to provide the legal support you deserve.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Phone" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" text_text_color="#FFFFFF" text_font_size="16px" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]1.613.233.0008[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" background_enable_color="off" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Ottawa-Cityscape-1080w.jpg" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,1_2,1_4" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" background_color="RGBA(255,255,255,0)" width="100%" max_width="none" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="|16px|48px|16px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Fearless" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" text_text_color="#FFFFFF" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_3_font="Roboto||||||||" header_3_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_4_text_color="#FFFFFF" global_colors_info="{}"]Fearless, Effective & Always Ready
Armoured Suits is committed to providing the best legal assistance possible. Based in Downtown Ottawa, we primarily support cases in the city of Ottawa and surrounding localities (Alexandria, Brockville, Cornwall, Kemptville, Pembroke, Perth, Renfrew, Smith's Falls, and L'Orignal). We also work with clients on select matters across Ontario and the Gatineau region.
How We Help >        |        Why Choose Us >[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" width="95%" max_width="none" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="0px||0px||false|false" custom_padding="|16px|10px|16px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="We Fight to Win Your Life Back" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" header_font="|800|||||||" header_text_align="center" header_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_font_size="72px" header_2_font="|800|||||||" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_2_font_size="64px" header_3_font="|800|||||||" header_3_text_align="center" header_3_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_3_font_size="72px" positioning="relative" position_origin_a="bottom_center" text_orientation="center" width="100%" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="72px" header_font_size_phone="72px" header_font_size_last_edited="on|tablet" header_3_font_size_tablet="56px" header_3_font_size_phone="" header_3_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_main_element="vertical-align: bottom;" global_colors_info="{}"]WE FIGHT TO WIN YOUR LIFE BACK[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" module_id="contact-form" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,1_2,1_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" width="100%" max_width="none" custom_padding="|16px||16px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" header_text_align="center" header_4_text_align="center" header_4_font_size="24px" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
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IT'S TIME TO SUIT UP![/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Consultation Form" module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.20.2" header_text_align="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]When choosing legal representation, do not settle. Choose Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers. Contact us to inquire about a free 30 min consultation, or fill out the form to find out if you're eligible.
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### Practice Locations
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There are 2 ways to work with us no matter where you live:[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" module_id="local remote" _builder_version="4.14.5" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="LOCAL REPRESENTATION" _builder_version="4.14.5" text_text_color="#ffffff" header_2_text_color="#ffffff" header_2_line_height="1.1em" custom_margin="||10px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]LOCAL REPRESENTATION
Armoured Suits is located in Downtown Ottawa, proudly serving the City of Ottawa, Gatineau, and surrounding areas.We’ve been one of the top Criminal Law firms in the Capital for over a decade, and we earned our reputation the old-fashioned way - through hard work and determination. It’s the same kind of resolve and attention-to-detail we apply to all of our cases.We participate in every criminal law organization in Ontario to deepen our understanding of the law, and provide our clients with dynamic and effective service. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title="Local Areas" open="on" admin_label="Local Areas" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.14.5" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
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	Gatineau Region
[/et_pb_toggle][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="FULL REPRESENTATION" _builder_version="4.14.5" text_text_color="#ffffff" header_line_height="1.1em" header_2_text_color="#ffffff" custom_margin="||10px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]REMOTE REPRESENTATION
Finally, technology has made remote representation a reality. The past few years have proven that remote representation is not only an important tool for modern law firms, it is a very effective option for those who need help outside of our geographical area.Let’s be real: While there may be a team of skilled criminal lawyers in your town, most towns aren't as lucky, and that means sometimes people don't get the kind representation that will really help them.From Saint Catharines to Sault Ste Marie, our reach extends far beyond city limits to connect with people in all regions of Ontario. We have fair, transparent fees, and are always happy to work with you on payment terms. We are excited to bring our years of experience and professional services to you, wherever you are.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title="Remote Areas" open="on" admin_label="Remote Areas" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.14.5" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
	Guelph
	Hamilton
	Kingston
	London
	Niagara Falls
	North Bay
	Peterborough
	Saint Catherines
	Sarnia
	Sault St. Marie
	Sudbury
	Thunder Bay
	Windsor
	and more...
[/et_pb_toggle][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,1_2,1_4" _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Need to consult with our lawyers? We offer three levels of consultation depending on your need:" _builder_version="4.14.5" text_text_color="#ffffff" global_colors_info="{}"]Not sure which way is best for you? Our Client Relations Coordinator can help you work out what you need for your specific circumstances. Get in touch today.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="#paymentmethods" button_text="Learn more about payment plans" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Payment Plans Button" _builder_version="4.13.0" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="25px||||false|false" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.14.5" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" module_id="paymentmethods" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.11)" custom_padding="||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" module_id="paymentplans" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Payment Plans" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="18" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]We offer payment plans to permit you to spread out the costs of your defence!
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Fee Structure" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.0.7" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How we structure our fees
You only pay us for the work that we do on your behalf. Our rate is set at the point of contract. We work efficiently to keep costs down.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Retainer" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.0.7" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Retainer
A retainer is partial pre-payment for services expected and agreed to be provided.  The funds are held in a trust account until services are performed.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Consultations" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.4.8" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Consultations
We offer an initial free 30-minute phone consultation with Robert, our Client Services Coordinator.  In person or longer phone consultations for a minimal fee that will be applied to your fees if you retain us.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="After initial retainer is expended" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.0.7" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]After initial retainer is expended
When you require services beyond the amount of the initial retainer, we meet with you, focus on your objectives and strategies to get there.  At this time, we discuss the additional fees that would require and work with you to find a satisfactory plan.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Payment methods" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.0.7" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Payment methods
We have client friendly terms which means we work with you. We accept the following forms of payment: cash, certified cheque, bank draft, e-transfer, credit card, debit transactions and in some situations, personal cheques.
Please speak to an associate to inquire about other forms of payment (such as Apple Pay or Bitcoin)[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="44px|||" global_module="3045" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="How to Help" _builder_version="4.14.5" global_colors_info="{}"]Tell Us More About Your SituationPlease fill out the detailed form below to inquire about a consultation. We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours.
                        This field is hidden when viewing the formReference NumberFirst Name*Last Name*Email*
                        PhoneThe following statement best describes my situation*
				I am already charged and have a court date
				I have been contacted by police but not yet charged
				Police have not yet called but I expect that they will
				Police have not yet called and I don't know if they will
				I have a loved one who has been arrested or is about to be arrested
				I am looking to file an appeal
				I have been served with court documents from a government tribunal
				I have been the victim of a crime
				None of the above
			Until a police call is expected, there is still uncertainty about whether a lawyer will be needed. 
 Our staff will review your inquiry and determine if we feel we are able to assist.Select this option if you have received documents requiring your response from entities like the Canadian Human Rights Commission.We can, in some cases, assist victims of crime in areas such as recanting your police statement or defending motions where the accused seeks to access your personal, private records or seeks to question you about other sexual behaviour. Initial Inquiry Preference*
				Phone Consultation
				In Person Meeting
			Upon receipt of your inquiry, expect a member of our team to contact you to ensure we have enough information for the consultation.There is an hourly charge for In-person meetings, however, if we are hired to work beyond the initial meeting we will credit 30mins of the cost of that meeting back onto your next invoiceWhich jurisdiction did the incident take place?*If no match below, please approximate. If there are multiple jurisdictions try to select the most important incident or larger city or town.Select One...OttawaWithin 2 hour drive of OttawaAlexandriaArnpriorBrockvilleCornwallGuelphKemptvilleKingstonL’OrignalLondonNiagara FallsNorth BayPembrokePerthPeterboroughRenfrewSaint CatherinesSault St. MarieSmith’s FallsSudburyThunder BayTorontoWindsorOtherDo you have a lawyer
				Yes, I already have a lawyer
				No, I don't have a lawyer
			If yes and you already have a lawyer, is the relationship officially over?
				Yes
				No
			Are you looking for a second opinion?
				Yes
				No
			Has your lawyer been informed relationship is over?
				Yes
				No
			Do you mind providing the lawyer’s name?Please describe your relationship to that personParentSpouseChildFamilyFriendOtherDoes your loved one already have a lawyer?I don’t know if my loved one has lawyerNo, my loved one doesn’t have lawyerYes, my loved one already has a lawyerWhich of the following is MOST IMPORTANT to you?
				Level of Experience
				Cost
				Payment Terms (including timing of payments)
				Emotional Responsiveness
				Speed of Response To Your Communications
			Do you have a gender preference for the lawyer handling your case?
				Indifferent
				Female
				Male
			Choose the answer that best describes your reason for reaching out to Armoured Suits
				Good reputation
				Recommended by friend
				First hit on Google search
				One among many firms I have contacted or intend to contact
			How Did You Hear About Us?
								Referral
								Returning Client
								Google/Bing Search
								Social Media
								Bench or Billboard Ad
								Bus Ad
								Radio Ad
								Television Ad / Television Appearance
								Weather Network Ad
							Do you remember the search terms used?
				Yes
				No
			Search TermsWas it an online ad or website link?
				Link to Website in Search Results
				Online Ad
			Name of ReferralThis field is hidden when viewing the formEntered By:Short Description of the Incident
[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.14.5" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" admin_label="Row" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.14.5" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/accused-of-a-crime-interviewed-by-the-police/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Have you been charged" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.13.0" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-0.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Have you been charged with a criminal offence or are worried you might be charged?
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/loved-one-has-been-charged/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Loved One has been charged" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.13.0" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sureties-lawyer-kids-ottawa.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Has your loved one been charged and you don't know what to do?
 
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/revise-police-statement/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Made or Change a Police Statement" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.13.0" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.46)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/writing-1149962_1920.jpg" background_blend="multiply" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]You've spoken to police as a complainant and would like to revise your statement
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Site Map
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.4.8" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="SITE MAP" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.4.8" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/writing-1149962_1920.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.4.8" border_style="solid"]Home
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### Assault: Quick Facts
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/AdobeStock_206724276-1-scaled-e1593633819617.jpeg" alt="What is assault?" title_text="Man arrested by police after commiting a crime." _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Have You Or A Loved One Been Charged With Assault?
Assault Charges: What You Need To Know[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0)" width="100%" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_cta url_new_window="on" button_text="Get in touch now." content_last_edited="off|desktop" _builder_version="4.16" body_font="|600|||||||" body_text_color="#ffffff" body_font_size="16px" body_link_font="|600|||||||" body_link_text_color="#e3e3e3" background_color="#e02b20" background_color_gradient_direction="136deg" global_colors_info="{}"]Remember, the first thing to do if you think you might be charged with assault is find an affordable lawyer to advise you. Armoured Suits offers a half hour consultation free of charge, and our transparent billing makes us a great choice. Get in touch now.[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.20.2" link_text_color="#e02b20" hover_enabled="0" link_text_color_tablet="" link_text_color_phone="" link_text_color_last_edited="on|desktop" global_colors_info="{}" link_text_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" link_text_color__hover="#fc2623" sticky_enabled="0"]What Is The Definition of Assault?
In Canada, assault is defined as:
	Applying force directly or indirectly to another person -- think punching or slapping someone
	Threatening to apply force to another person with the ability or the appearance of the ability to do so -- telling someone you’re going to beat them up in a way that makes it clear you aren’t joking 
	Accosting or impeding another person while openly wearing or carrying a weapon -- stopping someone from walking down a street while having a knife hanging from your belt.
These definitions are pretty broad. There are different types of assault and different ways you can defend against it in court. To find out more, take a look at our other detailed pages, including domestic and sexual charges.
If found guilty, a charge of assault can lead to jail time. It's important to make sure you are aware of how assault is tried in Canada, and what the consequences can be. And remember, if you need a lawyer we offer a free, no strings attached 3 minute phone consultation. Just fill out the form here or call us at 613-233-0008. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.20.2" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Inquire about a free 30-min phone consultation.
Fill out the form below to find out if you're eligible.
                    Contact Armoured Suits
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            How can we help you?
            Leave this Blank if are sentient 
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### Heroin Drug Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="HEROIN DRUG OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_align="center" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="48" body_font="||||" body_text_align="center" body_font_size="18" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/heroin-drug-charges-defence-lawyers-short.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_position="top_center" background_repeat="repeat-x" custom_button="on" button_text_size="16" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#017a49" button_font="||||" button_use_icon="off" button_alignment="center" header_font_size_tablet="30" header_font_size_phone="30" body_font_size_tablet="18" body_font_size_phone="18" button_text_size_tablet="16" button_text_size_phone="16"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||50px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Heroin" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]Overview
Heroin is a depressant derived from morphine and the opium poppy. It is also known as dope, dust, junk, smack, and horse. Due to its addictive nature and potential health impacts, heroin is listed as a Schedule I substance in Canada, the most serious category of drugs. Heroin is also taken seriously due to being associated with organized crime, which poses a danger to the public. Depending on the specific offence and the quantity of heroin, there could be a range of penalties imposed.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||25px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Heroin" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]Offences involving possession of heroin face the lowest in the range of penalties. Possession is a hybrid offence, meaning that the Crown Attorney has an option on how to proceed. On summary conviction, the penalty is a $1,000 fine and/or up to 6 months imprisonment for a first offence, or a $2,000 fine and/or up to one year imprisonment for each subsequent conviction. The maximum penalty is up to 7 years imprisonment if the Crown chooses to proceed as an indictable offence.
Trafficking and possession for the purpose of trafficking are indictable offences that face a minimum one year sentence, with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The import or export of heroin is also an indictable offence with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. However, the minimum sentence depends on the amount of heroin involved. If the amount of heroin is one kilogram or less, the minimum sentence is 1 year imprisonment. If the amount of heroin is over 1 kilogram, the minimum sentence increases to at least 2 years imprisonment.
As an indictable offence, the production of heroin faces a minimum sentence of 2 years imprisonment. However, if certain aggravating factors are present, the minimum sentence increases to 3 years. The maximum sentence for production of heroin is life imprisonment.
Any drug-related conviction can potentially have unforeseen consequences. Employment may be impacted if your employer or regulating agency requires the reporting of any drug-related convictions. Travel may also be impacted, as many countries consider a person to be inadmissible if they have a drug conviction.
Naturally, people facing any drug-related charge wish to avoid having a criminal record. However, it is unlikely that a criminal record can be avoided for a number of reasons. The judge may take a tough stance towards any drug charge. The Crown Attorney may be unwilling or unable to negotiate. The evidence may not allow for avoiding a criminal record. A good lawyer, though, will review the evidence against you and seek any available options which would minimize any sentence.
Drug treatment court or diversion an option under certain circumstances?
Possession involves “knowledge” (know the product is heroin or that it was present), and control (dictated by circumstances)
Are absolute/conditional discharge, suspended sentence, probation, conditional sentence options for any charges?
Would performance of counselling or community service before sentencing help?
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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Fentanyl[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta admin_label="Heroin" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/heroin-drug-charges-defence-lawyers-short.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px|4px|4px||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Hashish[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px||||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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### Hashish Drug Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="HASHISH DRUG OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_align="center" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="48" body_font="||||" body_text_align="center" body_font_size="18" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/hashish-drug-charges-defence-lawyer.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" custom_button="on" button_text_size="16" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#017a49" button_font="||||" button_use_icon="off" button_alignment="center" header_font_size_tablet="30" header_font_size_phone="30" body_font_size_tablet="18" body_font_size_phone="18" button_text_size_tablet="16" button_text_size_phone="16"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||50px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Hashish" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]Overview
On October 17, 2019, new regulations under the Cannabis Act went into effect, permitting the sale of hashish for personal use. Like marijuana, hashish is a product of the cannabis plant, but is a concentrate that is made from the plant resin and is much more potent than marijuana.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||50px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Hashish" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]There are certain rules surrounding the amount of hashish which can be purchased or carried by an individual. In Ontario, a person must be at least 19 years old to purchase hashish. It can only be purchased from a licenced retailer, or from the Government of Ontario’s online store. A person can carry up to 7.5g of hashish in public. Any rules governing where smoking of cigarettes is permitted also apply to the use of hashish.
While the personal use of hashish is now legal, there are still many aspects which remain illegal and can potentially lead to a criminal record. In Ontario, there is zero tolerance for cannabis use (including hashish) by young or novice drivers, as well as by commercial drivers. Any use could result in licence suspensions and potential financial penalties. As with alcohol, there are prohibited amounts of THC (the active component of marijuana and hashish) for drivers. It is a summary offence to have 2-5 nanograms (ng) of THC per mL of blood. It is a hybrid offence to have over 5ng of THC per mL of blood. When combined with alcohol, the legal limit is 2.5ng of THC and 50mg alcohol combined.
The penalty for driving under the influence of hashish can vary. A blood THC level of 2-5 nanograms may result in a maximum $1000.00 fine. Any blood THC level over 5ng carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment. However, there are also minimum sentences which depend on the number of convictions a person has for drug driving. A first offence has a minimum $1000.00 fine. A second offence has a minimum 30 days imprisonment. A third offence carries a minimum 120 days imprisonment. The roadside licence suspensions and vehicle impounding that are associated with drunk driving also apply where drugs are involved.
In the case of impaired driving causing bodily harm carries a maximum sentence of 2 years less a day by summary conviction, or a maximum of 14 years by indictment. Impaired driving causing death is an indictable offence that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Similar to alcohol, it is a criminal offence to refuse a standard field sobriety test when impaired by drugs. In order to demand an oral fluid sample, police must reasonably suspect a person has drugs in their system. Blood samples are required to prove blood concentration levels. 
The Cannabis Act establishes that provinces are responsible for establishing rules on the distribution and sale of cannabis products. In Ontario, any purchase outside of legally licenced stores or the government’s online store can result in a fine of up to $100,000.00 and one year in prison. Selling to a minor, or using a youth to commit a cannabis-related offence, can both result in a maximum 14 year prison sentence.
The possession of hashish above permitted amounts is a hybrid offence. On summary conviction, an individual could be subject to 6 months imprisonment and/or a $5000.00 fine; an organization could be subject to a $100,000.00 fine. On indictment, the sentence can be up to 5 years imprisonment for individuals, or a fine in an amount that is at the court’s discretion for an organization.
For distribution and possession for the purpose of distribution, a summary offence could have different sentences. Depending on the exact charges, the sentence could either be: a) 6 months imprisonment and/or $5000.00 fine; or b) 18 months imprisonment and/or $15,000.00 fine for individuals, or a fine up to $100,000.00 for organizations. (It is best to speak with a lawyer to determine which applies in your specific situation.) On indictment, an individual could receive up to 14 years imprisonment, or in the case of an organization a fine in an amount that is at the court’s discretion.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="3.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Fentanyl[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta admin_label="Heroin" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/heroin-drug-charges-defence-lawyers-short.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px|4px|4px||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Hashish[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px||||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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### Fentanyl Drug Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="FENTANYL DRUG OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_align="center" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="48" body_font="||||" body_text_align="center" body_font_size="18" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/drug-charges-best-lawyers-978.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" custom_button="on" button_text_size="16" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#017a49" button_font="||||" button_use_icon="off" button_alignment="center" header_font_size_tablet="30" header_font_size_phone="30" body_font_size_tablet="18" body_font_size_phone="18" button_text_size_tablet="16" button_text_size_phone="16"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||50px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Fentanyl" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]Overview
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, which is primarily prescribed to cancer patients in severe pain. It can be up to 50 times more potent than heroin, and 100 times stronger than morphine. Analogues (drugs with a similar composition) can be 10,000 times stronger than morphine. Two milligrams of pure fentanyl (equivalent to just a few grains of salt) is enough to kill the average adult, and in 2018 police seized enough to kill seven million. This drug has been linked to an estimated 4000 drug overdose deaths in Canada in 2017. It should be no surprise, then, that fentanyl has been listed as a Schedule I substance in Canada, the most serious category of drugs.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||50px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Fentanyl" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]China is considered to be a major source of the fentanyl supply in Canada. Fentanyl is also supplied by illegal drug labs, and via patches that are either sold by or stolen from people they were prescribed to. The drug can be swallowed, smoked, snorted, or injected. It can be sold in either powder or pill form, or cut into other drugs. The drug has neither taste nor smell, thus even drug dealers may be unaware if another drug is laced with fentanyl.
Fentanyl is easy to transport, and produces a high profit margin, which can be tempting to those engaged in the drug trade. However, sentences can be severe for those convicted of a drug offence. Possession is the only hybrid drug offence, which allows the Crown Attorney an option on how to proceed. For a summary conviction, you could face a penalty of a $1,000 fine and/or up to 6 months imprisonment for a first offence, or a $2,000 fine and/or up to one year imprisonment for each subsequent conviction. For an indictable conviction, the maximum penalty is seven years imprisonment.
There are also a number of drug offences which are indictable only, and carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. However, each carries a different minimum penalty. If convicted of trafficking or possession for the purpose of trafficking, the minimum is one year imprisonment. For importing or exporting, the penalty is one year for an amount of 1 kilogram or less, or 2 years minimum for an amount over 1 kilogram. The production of fentanyl carries a minimum sentence of two years imprisonment, which increases to a minimum of 3 years if certain aggravating factors are present.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="3.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on" global_module="4469"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta admin_label="Cocaine" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cocaine-drug-offences-lawyer-2.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" 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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Fentanyl[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta admin_label="Heroin" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/heroin-drug-charges-defence-lawyers-short.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px|4px|4px||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Ecstasy[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Hashish" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/hashish-drug-charges-defence-lawyer.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="||||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" 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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Hashish[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px||||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" 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### Ecstasy Drug Offences
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In widespread use since at least the 1980’s and associated with the ‘rave’ culture, ecstasy is also known as MDMA, E, XTC, X, Dove, and the Love Drug. Ecstasy is generally sold in tablets or capsule that vary in shape, size, colour, and the amount of the drug that it contains. It is sometimes ‘cut’ with methamphetamine in order to be more addictive and hazardous to the user’s health, but can also be laced with other drugs, such as LSD or PCP, or might contain NO ecstasy at all.
Ecstasy is listed as a Schedule I substance in Canada, the most serious category of drugs. While the supply of ecstasy in Canada was initially mostly imported, it is increasingly produced locally by organized crime, including for trafficking and export.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||25px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Ecstasy Main Content" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]Offences involving possession face the lowest potential penalties. It is the only hybrid offence, meaning that the Crown Attorney has an option on how they wish to proceed. On summary conviction, the penalty is a $1,000 fine and/or up to 6 months imprisonment for a first offence, or a $2,000 fine and/or up to one year imprisonment for each subsequent conviction. The maximum penalty is up to 7 years imprisonment if the Crown chooses to proceed as an indictable offence.
The remaining types of charges are all indictable offences which carry a maximum of life imprisonment. Trafficking and possession for the purpose of trafficking face a minimum one year sentence, with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. If charged with the import or export of ecstasy, the minimum sentence can be either one or two years, and depends on the amount of ecstasy involved. The production of ecstasy faces a minimum sentence of 2 years imprisonment. However, if certain aggravating factors are present, the minimum sentence increases to 3 years. The maximum sentence for production of heroin is life imprisonment.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="3.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.0.7" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Fentanyl[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta admin_label="Heroin" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/heroin-drug-charges-defence-lawyers-short.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px|4px|4px||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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### Why Us
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participate in all criminal law organizations in Ontario to IMPROVE OUR KNOWLEDGE[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider color="#e02b20" divider_position="center" divider_weight="5px" _builder_version="4.16" width="33%" width_tablet="33%" width_phone="15%" width_last_edited="on|phone" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" module_class="two-columns" _builder_version="4.16" min_height="108px" custom_margin="-2px|auto||auto||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Montserrat|700|||||||" text_font_size="100px" text_line_height="1em" header_font="Montserrat|700|||||||" header_font_size="100px" inline_fonts="Montserrat" global_colors_info="{}"]10[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Montserrat||||||||" text_font_size="31px" text_line_height="1.8em" custom_padding_tablet="|54px|||false|false" custom_padding_phone="|18px|||false|false" custom_padding_last_edited="on|phone" text_font_size_tablet="" text_font_size_phone="18px" text_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" global_colors_info="{}"]We utilize an INTERNAL SYSTEM so that all associates have benefit of corporate learning[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider color="#e02b20" divider_position="center" divider_weight="5px" _builder_version="4.16" width="33%" width_tablet="33%" width_phone="15%" width_last_edited="on|phone" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" module_class="two-columns" _builder_version="4.16" min_height="108px" custom_margin="-2px|auto||auto||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Montserrat|700|||||||" text_font_size="100px" text_line_height="1em" header_font="Montserrat|700|||||||" header_font_size="100px" inline_fonts="Montserrat" global_colors_info="{}"]11[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Montserrat||||||||" text_font_size="31px" text_line_height="1.8em" custom_padding_tablet="|54px|||false|false" custom_padding_phone="|18px|||false|false" custom_padding_last_edited="on|phone" text_font_size_tablet="" text_font_size_phone="18px" text_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" global_colors_info="{}"]We have FAIR, TRANSPARENT FEES and we work with you on payment terms[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider color="#e02b20" divider_position="center" divider_weight="5px" _builder_version="4.16" width="33%" width_tablet="33%" width_phone="15%" width_last_edited="on|phone" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="||||||||" text_font_size="24px" text_line_height="1.8em" custom_padding_tablet="|16px||16px|false|true" custom_padding_phone="" custom_padding_last_edited="on|tablet" text_font_size_tablet="22px" text_font_size_phone="18px" text_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" text_letter_spacing_tablet="0px" text_letter_spacing_last_edited="off|tablet" text_line_height_tablet="1.74em" text_line_height_phone="" text_line_height_last_edited="on|tablet" global_colors_info="{}"]If you’ve read this far, there is a good chance that you are seriously considering hiring us to help you. But please don’t simply take our word for it, read some reviews and previous success stories below, or fill out the form to book a consultation today.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="rgba(255,255,255,0)" custom_padding="||0px|" transparent_background="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Testimonials" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]

### Case Results
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Peace Bonds
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/peace-bond-lawyers-ottawa.jpg" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="PEACE BONDS" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/peace-bond-lawyers-ottawa.jpg" background_enable_image="on" background_repeat="repeat" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#ffffff" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" header_text_color="#000000" header_2_text_color="#000000" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is a peace bond?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#333333" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"] A peace bond is sometimes called an ‘810 recognizance’ or a ‘section 810 peace bond’. It essentially is a court order that is a signed promise to keep the peace and be of good behaviour, and can include conditions, including not having any weapons, no contact or staying away from a particular person or place, pledge an amount of money to the court ($500-1000) that is paid if any condition is breached, abstain from non-prescription drugs or alcohol. 
It may be available if a person has been threatened, has a reasonable fear for personal or family safety, or has a reasonable fear of property damage. A peace bond is sometimes offered as an alternative to a trial/conviction/guilty plea, in order to avoid a criminal record. No criminal record is attached to a peace bond, but breaching conditions can lead to criminal charges. A peace bond is often sought when a person is not charged with an offence, but a complaint has been made and the court requires a response. The complainant must demonstrate on a ‘balance of probabilities’ that reasonable grounds exist to fear personal injury or property damage.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#333333" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Anyone can apply for a peace bond by going to criminal court and explaining why one is needed. It does not have to involve police, and can be against anyone. It can take 2-3 months to obtain a peace bond. It must first be demonstrated that a peace bond is required. A summons is then issued to the defendant. If they do not agree to the peace bond, a hearing date will be set. Once issued, a peace bond lasts up to one year, and is non-renewable. If it is still required after the one year, an application for a new peace bond will have to be filed.
Sometimes the Justice of the Peace, judge, or other party might suggest a mutual peace bond, where conditions are placed on both sides. If this occurs, it is best to obtain legal advice before signing one, as the other party may attempt to intentionally cause violations in order to press criminal charges.
Once a peace bond is obtained, a certified copy needs to be available for police to be able to enforce it. While peace bonds may not deter threatening or violent behaviour, they do facilitate more effective police and court action for violation of terms.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font_size="16px" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]If you have questions or require assistance in obtaining a peace bond, the lawyers at Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers can help.
Contact our Legal Defence Team[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Liquor Licence Act of Ontario
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="LIQUOR LICENCE AND CONTROL ACT OF ONTARIO" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/drink-1870139_1920.jpg" parallax="on" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||50px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Liquor Licence and Control Act (LLCA)[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"]Those who sell alcohol in Ontario are required to comply with the Liquor Licence & Control Act and failure to do so in an offence. Even the most diligent with the best of intentions may fall victim.
Section 61 of Ontario’s Liquor Licence and Control Act states that failure to follow the Act is an offence. It also explicitly warns directors and officers of corporations that their involvement might also be an offence if they “caused, authorized, permitted, or participated in an offence.”
The penalties can be crushing to a business or its owner. Fines upwards of $250,000 for a corporation and $100,000 for an individual is the norm. Other possible consequences include shutting down the establishment or revocating the ability to sell alcohol. For certain other misdeeds, such as selling to a minor, the fines can double.
 [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Mischief Video" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_video src="https://youtu.be/oHU_42Apeus" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" height="360px" custom_margin="-50px||100px||false|false" custom_css_free_form="selector iframe {||height:500px !important;||  z-index:1000;||}" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_5,3_5,1_5" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_5" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="3_5" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font_size="15px" header_2_font_size="23px" global_colors_info="{}"]At Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers, we can assist with:
Defending charges under Liquor Licence and Control Act in court
Answering Letters of Incident from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission
Defend charges with respect to Liquor Licence Applications
Defend charges under Smoke Free Ontario Act and Fire Protection and Prevention Act in court
Defend against monetary penalties imposed by Alcohol and Gaming Commission
Arguing appeals to all levels of court
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_5" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Robert Machado - Legal Coordinator
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminal-law-firm-ottawa.jpg" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" _builder_version="4.16" parallax="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="ROBERT MACHADO" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.26)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="||||" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,3_4" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/robert-machado-criminal-law-firm-ottawa-203x300.jpg" alt="robert machado criminal law firm ottawa" title_text="machado-ottawa-law" align="center" _builder_version="4.22.2" max_width="200px" box_shadow_style="preset3" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]ROBERT MACHADO
Legal Coordinator[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/how-we-help/" button_text="How We Help" button_alignment="center" admin_label="How We Help Button" _builder_version="4.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="3_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" custom_margin="|||30px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Fast Facts About Robert[/et_pb_text][et_pb_tabs admin_label="Tabs" module_id="lawfirm-tabs" _builder_version="4.16" custom_css_main_element="display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_tabs_controls="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:flex;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tab="width:100%;||text-align:center;||margin:auto;||height:calc(100% / 5);||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_active_tab="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;" global_colors_info="{}" custom_css_main_element_tablet="Display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_main_element_phone="display:block;" custom_css_main_element_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tabs_controls_tablet="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tabs_controls_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tab_tablet="width:100%;||text-align:center;||min-height:50px;||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||height:auto;" custom_css_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_active_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #0094D9;" custom_css_active_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_content_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tabs_content_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_controls_phone="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_active_tab_tablet="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content_tablet="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;"][et_pb_tab title="Education" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]
 	2003 – Queen’s University, B.A. Religious Studies
2010 – Nipissing University, Bachelor of Education
2017 – St. Lawrence College, Law Clerk Diploma
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Charitable Causes" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]
World Vision Canada
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Contact" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Email: robert.machado@armouredsuits.ca
Office: 613.233.0008[/et_pb_tab][/et_pb_tabs][et_pb_code admin_label="Code" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="||on||||||" text_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" custom_padding="|24px||24px|false|true" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Robert Machado has two decades of experience helping people in the food service and retail industries, and as an ESL educator. 
Robert is an important member of the Armoured Suits team and the main legal support on each client's file. His duties include everything to do with handling Crown evidence (disclosure), criminal record suspensions (pardons), and implementing new systems to make our services even more effective and efficient. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Background
Originally from Kingston, Ontario, Robert was born in Canada to immigrant parents. His experience and the experience of his parents inspired his commitment to helping others.
Interests
Robert is a keen photographer, a hobby he combines with his love of travel. He is also a member of the Knights of Columbus.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Experience
Long interested in the legal system, Robert obtained a Law Clerk diploma from St. Lawrence College in 2017 and joined the Armoured Suits team in February 2018. His background as a second generation Canadian makes him sensitive to the difficulties of immigrants, especially when facing the prospect of dealing with the legal system.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Marijuana FAQ
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" _builder_version="4.14.5" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="MARIJUANA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS" use_bg_overlay="off" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" background_color="#7ebec5" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/faq.jpg" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"]Marijuana FAQ
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_accordion_item title="What does the “legalization of cannabis” mean? " open="on" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}"]In Canada, it means that it is legal to possess up to 30 grams of marijuana for recreational use or up to four plants of any size per home. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Why did the Government of Canada legalize cannabis? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]The Canadian legislation, known as the Cannabis Act, stems from a campaign pledge of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to keep marijuana away from underage users and curb marijuana-related crime through the use of legalization & regulation. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="How can cannabis be sold? Do you need a license to sell? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]In Ontario, cannabis is currently only legally sold through the online Ontario Cannabis Store. Retail dispensaries (pot shops) are scheduled to be in place in Ontario by April 2019.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Where can cannabis be consumed? Can I smoke in public?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Under the new law, you can smoke and vape cannabis at the following places:
 	Private residences.
 	Many outdoor public places.
 	Designated guest rooms in hotels, motels and inns.
 	Scientific research and testing facilities.
 	Controlled areas in long-term care homes, certain retirement homes, residential hospices, provincially-funded supportive housing, designated psychiatric facilities or veterans facilities.
Under the new law, you are not allowed to smoke cannabis in the following places:
 	Indoor common areas in condos, apartment buildings and university/college residences.
 	Enclosed public places and enclosed workplaces.
 	Non-designated guest rooms in hotels, motels and inns.
 	Schools and places where children gather.
 	On school grounds.
 	All public areas within 20 metres of these grounds.
 	On children's playgrounds and public areas within 20 metres of playgrounds.
 	in child care centres, or where an early years program is provided
 	In places where home child care is provided — even if children aren't present
 	Hospitals, hospices, care homes and other facilities.
Also, you will not be able to smoke or vape cannabis:
 	Within nine metres from the entrance or exit of hospitals (public/private), psychiatric facilities, long-term care homes, independent health facilities.
 	On outdoor grounds of hospitals (public/private) and psychiatric facilities.
 	In non-controlled areas in long-term care homes, certain retirement homes, provincially-funded supportive housing, designated psychiatric or veterans' facilities, and residential hospices.
 	Publicly owned spaces, including sports fields, nearby spectator areas and public areas within 20 metres of these areas.
 	Vehicles and boats being driven or at risk of being put into motion.
And you are not allowed to smoke or vape cannabis in other outdoor areas, including:
 	Restaurants and on bar patios and public areas within 9m of a patio.
 	On outdoor grounds of specified Ontario government office buildings.
 	In reserved seating areas at outdoor sports and entertainment locations.
 	Grounds of community recreational facilities, and public areas within 20 metres of those grounds.
 	In sheltered outdoor areas with a roof and more than two walls which the public or employees frequent, or are invited to (e.g. a bus shelter).

[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Will tickets or fines be issued for smoking cannabis in public? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Generally no. However, if you are caught smoking cannabis in a prohibited area, such as around children, you can expect a fine ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="What is the legal age to buy and use cannabis?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]It depends on the province. In Ontario, you must be 19 to buy and use cannabis. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="How many plants can I grow in my own home? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]You can grow up to four plants of any size legally in your home, unless your province has banned home grown cannabis, such as Manitoba and Quebec. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Can home grown cannabis be shared with family members who are underage? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]No. You must be of legal age to smoke cannabis in your province. Like cigarettes or alcohol, you cannot provide cannabis to a minor. If you do, the maximum sentence is steep: up to 14 years in jail. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Can I legally share cannabis with other adults (over the age of 19)? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]You can legally share cannabis with other adults, as long as you do not sell it to them. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=" Can I make food or drinks out of cannabis and serve them in my home? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Yes, you can -- so long as you don’t use organic solvents to make concentrated products. However, it is still illegal to sell “edible” food and drink products featuring cannabis. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="If I rent an apartment/condo/home, am I allowed to grow plants? If yes, how many?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]It depends on your landlord and their rules or lease agreement (and whether your province bans home grown weed, such as Quebec and Manitoba). Some landlords may ban cannabis use and plant growth outright in their units -- though that ban may not extend to medical marijuana usage. If cannabis use is allowed, you can grow up to four plants per residence.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="If I own a condo, am I allowed to grow plants? If yes, how many?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Again, like the situation with renters, it depends on your condo’s building rules. If you’re allowed to grow plants in your province at home, you can grow up to four plants of any size per residence. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Can a landlord evict a tenant or deny a rental if the renter wants to grow plants on the premises? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Yes. They can insert clauses into your lease preventing using or growing cannabis on the premises.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="How much cannabis can I have on my person at any given time? -OR- What are the possession limits?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]The possession limits in the Cannabis Act are based on dried cannabis. 
One gram of dried cannabis is equal to:
 	5 grams of fresh cannabis.
 	15 grams of edible product.
 	70 grams of liquid product.
 	0.25 grams of concentrates (solid or liquid).
 	1 cannabis plant seed.
This means, for example, that an adult 19 years of age or older in Ontario can legally possess 150 grams of fresh cannabis.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=" What are the measures in place to ensure youth can not access cannabis? Who will be enforcing these measures?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]The Cannabis Act attempts to discourage use by young people by prohibiting:
 	products that are appealing to youth.
 	packaging or labelling cannabis that appeals to youth.
 	selling cannabis through self-service displays or vending machines.
 	promoting cannabis, such as by using celebrities or cartoon characters to promote cannabis, except in extreme cases where young people could not see the promotion.
Penalties for violating these prohibitions include a fine of up to $5 million or three years in jail. Police will be enforcing these measures. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Is there a list of all offences and their resulting penalties under the Act? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Penalties are set in proportion to the seriousness of the offence, and would range from warnings and tickets for minor offences to criminal prosecution and imprisonment for more serious offences. You can see a list of some sanctions on the Department of Justice Canada website. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Can my employer set workplace safety guidelines relating to cannabis usage? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Yes. Just like your employer can set safety guidelines about the consumption of alcohol at work events, your employer can make almost any rules about the consumption of cannabis. The exception would be for medical marijuana, which must be accommodated in the workplace. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="How is cannabis impairment defined? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Cannabis can impair each person differently, so there’s no set definition for impairment. 
However, drugs such as cannabis generally impair your ability to drive by:
 	affecting motor skills;
 	slowing reaction time;
 	impairing short term memory and concentration;
 	causing drivers to vary speed and to wander;
 	reducing the ability to make decisions quickly or handle unexpected events.
While there are no guidelines for how long you should wait before driving after having cannabis, you could be impaired by cannabis for more that 24 hours after using it, and your impairment may be greatly increased if cannabis use is mixed with alcohol use. The time it takes for cannabis to wear off depends on whether it was smoked or ingested, and how much and how often you’ve consumed it.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="How will roadside stops check for cannabis impairment? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Police will check for impairment using these tools:
 	Standard Field Sobriety Testing (SFST), which is typically administered at the roadside; 
 	Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation, which includes a series of tests and a urine or blood sample collected at the police station; 
 	Oral fluid drug screening equipment. Police can require a driver provide an oral fluid sample on approved drug screening equipment to screen for the presence of drugs.

[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="What are the convictions if you are caught and convicted of impaired driving while under the influence of cannabis? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]They can range from licence suspensions and fines to jail time. You can see what the convictions are by visiting the Department of Justice website. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Will existing pot charges be removed from my record?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]This may be the case in the near future. The federal government plans to introduce legislation at the end of 2018 that would pardon those who have minor charges involving cannabis on their criminal record. If you were convicted of possessing up to 30 grams of marijuana, you may be eligible in the future for a criminal pardon. 
As of writing, the policy to be implemented for purging of old convictions has yet to be finalized.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Will cannabis have restrictions like those imposed on alcohol and tobacco products? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Basically, it will in terms of packaging so that cannabis has limited appeal to youth. Packaging is plain and meant to not entice youth, for instance. 
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Can producers advertise their products on the radio/internet/etc without any restrictions? " _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]No. The Cannabis Act bans promotion that appeals to youth, contains false or misleading statements or depicts celebrities, cartoon characters or animals, among other things. 
It would allow ads that present facts or promote brand preference. But these ads could only be shown in places where youth are not legally allowed, or broadcast only if “reasonable steps” have been taken to ensure they “cannot be accessed by a young person.”
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="The US Border Patrol is asking Canadians if they have ever smoked marijuana. Can I be denied entry to the United States of America if I answer 'yes'? What happens if I lie and say 'no'?" _builder_version="3.3.1" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]It’s really up to the border officer and their discretion as to whether or not you are denied entry. If you lie and say no, you haven’t smoked marijuana, and the US Border Patrol officer catches you in a lie, they can ban your entry to the United States for life -- meaning that you would have to apply for a U.S. Waiver of Inadmissibility every five years. This is a very costly and time consuming process. 
You can, however, decline to answer the question and remove your application to enter the U.S. That way, while you won’t be allowed to enter the country this one time, you will not be banned for life from travelling to the U.S. in the future, either.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][/et_pb_accordion][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Help
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### Privacy Policy
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_level="h1" header_font="||||||||" header_text_align="center" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="PRIVACY POLICY" use_bg_overlay="off" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#7ebec5" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/writing-1149962_1920.jpg" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Last updated: April 25, 2025
Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers ("us", "we", or "our") operates https://armouredsuits.ca/ (the "Site"). This page informs you of our policies regarding the collection, use and disclosure of Personal Information we receive from users of the Site.
We use your Personal Information only for providing and improving the Site. By using the Site, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.
Information Collection And Use
While using our Site, we may ask you to provide us with certain personally identifiable information that can be used to contact or identify you. Personally identifiable information may include, but is not limited to your name ("Personal Information").
Log Data
Like many site operators, we collect information that your browser sends whenever you visit our Site ("Log Data").
This Log Data may include information such as your computer's Internet Protocol ("IP") address, browser type, browser version, the pages of our Site that you visit, the time and date of your visit, the time spent on those pages and other statistics.
In addition, we may use third party services such as Google Analytics that collect, monitor and analyze this information.
Communications
We may use your Personal Information to contact you with newsletters, marketing or promotional materials.
Cookies
Cookies are files with small amount of data, which may include an anonymous unique identifier. Cookies are sent to your browser from a web site and stored on your computer's hard drive.
Like many sites, we use "cookies" to collect information. You can instruct your browser to refuse all cookies or to indicate when a cookie is being sent. However, if you do not accept cookies, you may not be able to use some portions of our Site.
Security
The security of your Personal Information is important to us, but remember that no method of transmission over the Internet, or method of electronic storage, is 100% secure. While we strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your Personal Information, we cannot guarantee its absolute security.
Changes To This Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy is effective as of January 1, 2019 and will remain in effect except with respect to any changes in its provisions in the future, which will be in effect immediately after being posted on this page.
We reserve the right to update or change our Privacy Policy at any time and you should check this Privacy Policy periodically. Your continued use of the Service after we post any modifications to the Privacy Policy on this page will constitute your acknowledgment of the modifications and your consent to abide and be bound by the modified Privacy Policy.
If we make any material changes to this Privacy Policy, we will notify you either through the email address you have provided us, or by placing a prominent notice on our website.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Breaking and Entering (B & E) Charges
[et_pb_section bb_built="1" admin_label="section" background_color="rgba(255,255,255,0)" parallax_method="off" module_class="content-a" _builder_version="3.3.1" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminallaw-background.jpg" custom_padding_tablet="50px|0|50px|0" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" background_blend="darken"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" custom_padding="0px||0px|" padding_mobile="off" parallax_method="off" parallax_method_1="off" column_padding_mobile="on" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial" _builder_version="3.0.50" background_position_1="top_left" background_repeat_1="no-repeat" module_class="content-a"][et_pb_column type="4_4"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" background_layout="dark" text_orientation="center" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial" _builder_version="3.3.1" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="45px" text_font="Roboto|||on|" text_font_size="22" custom_margin="||25px|" module_alignment="center" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_text_shadow_style="preset3"]
ARE YOU FACING BREAK & ENTER CHARGES?
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding="10px|20px|10px|20px" parallax_method="off" parallax_method_1="off" parallax_method_2="off" column_padding_mobile="on" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial" _builder_version="3.0.50" background_position_1="top_left" background_repeat_1="no-repeat" background_position_2="top_left" background_repeat_2="no-repeat" module_class="content-b" background_color="rgba(232,232,232,0.77)" make_fullwidth="on" make_equal="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2"][et_pb_divider _builder_version="3.0.50" divider_style="solid" divider_position="top" height="40" hide_on_mobile="on" disabled_on="on|on|off" color="#ffffff" show_divider="off" /][et_pb_text text_text_color="#000000" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial" _builder_version="3.3.1" text_font_size="16" text_font="Roboto||||" header_font="Roboto||||" custom_padding="20px|10px|20px|20px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_font_size="24px"]
Breaking & Entering - The “Intent”

Break & Enter is defined as an offence committed when a person unlawfully enters any place with the intent of committing a criminal offence therein. While many people believe an accused must break a window or door, the “break” can be as simple as reaching through an open window or opening an unlocked door and walking inside. Further, a person can be guilty of a break and enter even if they do not commit another crime once inside.    
 
B&E – A Serious Offence
Breaking and Entering is a very serious and indictable offence with a severe punishment. If the break and enter is committed in relation to a dwelling house, the accused is liable to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
 
Get An Armoured Suits Defence


A criminal record will impact your life: it will limit your ability to obtain a job, hinder your ability to travel and can have lasting effects on your family and relationships. 
Don’t fight a Break and Enter charge without a legal team committed to protecting your rights. Get an Armoured Suits' defence and ensure the accusations are successfully countered.
Get in touch to consult on your case or call (613) 233-0008
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2"][et_pb_divider _builder_version="3.3.1" height="60" disabled_on="on|on|off" color="#ffffff" show_divider="off" /][et_pb_code _builder_version="3.3.1"]<h1 align="center" style="color:#333;">Request a Free Phone Consultation</h1><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><p style="text-align: center;">Please fill out the form below to receive a free 30-min phone consultation. We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours.</p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><div class="lexiform" align="center"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->Oops! We could not locate your form.</div>[/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row parallax_method="off" parallax_method_1="off" column_padding_mobile="on" module_class_1="content-d" custom_padding="0px||0px|" custom_padding_last_edited="on|phone" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial" _builder_version="3.0.50" background_position_1="top_left" background_repeat_1="no-repeat" module_class="content-d-wrap" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.37)"][et_pb_column type="4_4"][et_pb_text background_layout="dark" text_orientation="center" border_style="solid" custom_padding="20px|80px|200px|80px" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial" _builder_version="3.0.50" module_alignment="center"]
 
Armoured Suits can help you navigate the legal process
 
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### Fraud Lawyer Ottawa
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" admin_label="section" module_class="content-a" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="rgba(255,255,255,0)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminallaw-background.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_padding_tablet="50px|0|50px|0" custom_padding_phone=""][et_pb_row padding_mobile="off" column_padding_mobile="on" admin_label="row" module_class="content-a" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto|||on|" text_font_size="22" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="45px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="||25px|" header_text_shadow_style="preset3"]Have you been charged with Fraud?
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" column_padding_mobile="on" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" module_class="content-b et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" background_color="rgba(232,232,232,0.77)" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" width="89%" width_tablet="80%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="89%" max_width_tablet="80%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_padding="10px|20px|10px|20px" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone="" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" disabled_on="on|on|off" _builder_version="3.23.4" height="40px" hide_on_mobile="on"][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.9.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16" text_line_height="1.8em" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="20px|10px|20px|20px"]Fraud Cases Are Complex

Fraud has become increasingly common and is a serious criminal offence. According to the Criminal Code, fraud can be accomplished by deceit, falsehood or other fraudulent means. A victim does not have to actually suffer an economic loss. Instead, the accused need only to have intent to defraud to attract criminal responsibility.
 
2 Categories of Fraud
Under the Criminal Code, fraud offences are divided into two categories. In both cases the penalties are stiff. 
Fraud over $5,000

Fraud over $5,000 is an indictable offence with a maximum penalty of 14 years.

Fraud under $5,000
The Crown has a choice as to whether they wish to proceed by summary conviction or by indictment. By summary conviction the maximum sentence is 6 months. By indictment the penalty maximum sentence is 2 years. 
 
Armoured Suits Will Defend Your Interests


Fraud over 5000. Fraud under 5000. Utter Forged Document. Personation. No matter what the charge, fraud is taken very seriously by the courts. Do not let the unscrupulous activities of others cost you your reputation. The experienced and highly-skilled criminal defence lawyers at Armoured Suits are committed to leveraging knowledge, resources and expertise to help you fight back.
Get in touch to consult on your case or call (613) 233-0008
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" disabled_on="on|on|off" _builder_version="3.23.4" height="60px"][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.9.4" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"]Request a Free Phone ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to inquire about a free 30-min phone consultation.  We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours or call us at (613) 233-0008
                        First Name*Last Name*Email*
                        Send a Message or Describe Your Case*
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Armoured Suits can help you navigate the legal process
 

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### Criminal Negligence
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="CRIMINAL NEGLIGENCE" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/criminal-negligence-lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is Criminal Negligence?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Criminal negligence is the failure on the part of a person on whom a duty is placed to take reasonable steps to prevent a certain bad outcome from happening. Duties may or may not be specifically known to you. For instance, as a driver, you have a duty not to hurt others with your vehicle. You may or may not have known that.
Other examples of people who have duties to others include: parents owing a protective duty to their children, or employers/supervisors at work owing a duty to their workers. 

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Police lay criminal negligence charges when a negative consequence has happened (injury or death) and the accused is believed to have omitted to take steps to prevent that negative consequence.
There are two main forms of criminal negligence: causing bodily harm and causing death.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Examples of criminal negligence
Parents
One parent is routinely physically abusive to the child(ren) causing them injuries and the other parent knows this is happening and does nothing to protect the children.
Drivers
You and some friends are goofing around with a truck, doing donuts in a parking lot. You are driving and one friend is in the open cargo area and is thrown out of the vehicle and sustains serious brain damage.
Employers
You are responsible for supervising workers. You permit workers to go up on a scaffold knowing that there are insufficient restraints to prevent falling. You know it’s unlikely that anything bad will happen. The worker has been drinking that day during lunch and then returns to work and falls off the scaffold and dies.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]How to defend criminal negligence
Defending criminal negligence charges centers around determining whether the accused’s conduct was the result of momentary inattention (for which no foresight of the consequence was reasonable) or was, in fact, partly foreseen by awareness of the risk and proceeding despite that awareness.
There may also be argument to suggest that intervening events (that could not be foreseen) caused the injury or death. Lastly, there may be attempts to demonstrate that the accused’s behaviour was not wanton or reckless and did not represent a marked departure from what we would expect.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact our Legal Defence Team
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### Regulatory Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="REGULATORY OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/drink-1870139_1920.jpg" parallax="on" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.3" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||60px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is a Regulatory Offence?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.3" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"]A regulatory offence is a violation of a law that is not listed in the Criminal Code of Canada or its related statutes (including the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and can be a law enacted either by Parliament or by the legislature of a province.
Regulatory offences can have different standards when it comes to knowledge and intention, especially when it comes to corporate accused. Strict liability is the norm when it comes to regulatory offences. 
The rationale is that while it can be a challenge to determine what one human being intended by evaluating their conduct on a particular occasion, it is quite another to determine what a chain of people intended and who was told what by whom. This additional complication seems to justify a standard of strict liability.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.3" header_2_line_height="1.2em" header_4_font="|600|||||||" global_colors_info="{}"]Examples of Regulatory Offences
Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA)
In every Canadian jurisdiction, employers are subject to comprehensive occupational health and safety act (OHSA) and workers’ compensation legislation.
In Ontario, the government enacted the most dramatic changes to the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA) on December 14, 2017 by Bill 177. While only a small number of provisions were modified, the key updates are poised to have significant implications for businesses, their management and leaders, and even workers. 
In Ontario, maximum fines for individuals is set at $100,000.00 and maximum fines for corporations is set at $1,500,000.00. Employers are strongly advised to proactively manage workplace risks. OHSA training and consulting service providers can assist employers in developing workplace safety programs that meet and exceed compliance. An experienced legal team can offer strategic insight and solutions, coupled with extensive OHSA litigation experience. 
Armoured Suits counsels employers, senior executives, supervisors, team leaders and health and safety committee members on a wide range of OHSA-related matters, including compliance, due-diligence, reporting, orders, directions, defence and appeals.
 
Competition Act - Canada
The federal Competition Act is enacted to protect the economy and prevent unfair practices that strangle business competitors from being on a level playing field.
Part VI of the Act sets out numerous offences in relation to price fixing, limiting supply of products and so on.
The penalties for violations are steep: up to 14 years in jail and $25 million fine or both!
 [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" header_2_line_height="1.2em" header_4_font="|600|||||||" global_colors_info="{}"]Liquor Licence and Control Act
Those who sell alcohol in Ontario are required to comply with the Liquor Licence and Control Act and failure to do so in an offence.
Section 61 of Ontario’s Liquor Licence and Control Act says failure to follow the Act is an offence. It also explicitly warns directors and officers of corporations that their involvement might also be an offence if they “caused, authorized, permitted, or participated in an offence.”
The penalties can be crushing to a business or its owner. Fines upwards of $250,000 for a corporation and $100,000 for an individual is the norm. For certain other misdeeds (selling to a minor) double those fines.
How to defend Regulatory Offences
Defending regulatory offences will typically differ from traditional defences under criminal law frameworks because the fault element is often relaxed. 
When the requisite standard is strict liability, the law affords a defence of due diligence. What comprises due diligence in any case will depend on all the circumstances but usually will require a demonstration that the entity charged took all reasonable steps to prevent what happened from happening.
The defence strategy will often involve arguing about the meaning of certain words and whether the fault element is mens rea (knowledge), negligence, or strict liability. 
A standard of mens rea is the hardest for the prosecution to establish and so is favoured by the defence.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
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### Cocaine Drug Offences
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Cocaine is a Schedule I substance in Canada. That means cocaine is listed in the most serious category of drugs. Depending on the offence charged and the quantity of substance, the penalty could include mandatory incarceration.
Crack vs Powder
There are small differences in the severity of punishment between crack cocaine and powdered cocaine. Crack-cocaine is more addictive and the sentences for offences are generally higher than for powdered cocaine.
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button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Fentanyl[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta admin_label="Heroin" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/heroin-drug-charges-defence-lawyers-short.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="4px|4px|4px||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" 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Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="||4px||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Ecstasy[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Hashish" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/hashish-drug-charges-defence-lawyer.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="||||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Hashish[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="4px||||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Marijuana[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="50px||50px|" global_module="2847" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Request Free Consultation Form" module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.20.2" text_orientation="center" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Request Free ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to find out if you're eligible for a free 30 minute phone consultation.
                    Contact Armoured Suits
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            Leave this Blank if are sentient 
[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Importing or Exporting
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="3.16" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="IMPORTING OR EXPORTING" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/importing-drug-offences-criminal-lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="94%" width_tablet="80%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="94%" max_width_tablet="80%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Definition" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid"]Importing or Exporting Illegal Substances
As the name suggests, these offences seek to prevent the movement of drugs between countries.  You can be found guilty of this offence even if the accused doesn’t physically bring the substance in or out. An agreement to import or export would be sufficient as well. 
Not surprisingly, this offence is treated very seriously by police and the Crown. Depending on the type of substance involved, it can carry minimum jail sentences of varying lengths. Many of the offences carry jail sentence of a year or more. 
Importing or exporting a Schedule I substance carries a minimum two year jail sentence if it is more than a kilogram. As with all minimum punishments, that is the least restrictive sentence available. It would be common for someone to receive much more than the minimum for this offence.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|40px||40px" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Defence Strategy" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid"]Defences
It would be common to seek to distance the accused from the importing or exporting behaviour either by suggesting it was not them or that they were not aware of exactly what was going on. 
Charter arguments can be successful to defend importation or exporting charges depending on the facts of the case.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="3.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_margin="||0px|" custom_padding="||0px|" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||0px|" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-of-scheduled-substance/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession of scheduled substance" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/drug-charges-best-lawyers-ottawa.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]POSSESSION OF SCHEDULED SUBSTANCE
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||0px|" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-for-purpose-of-trafficking/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P)" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/trafficking-drugs-defence-lawyers.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P)
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_margin="4px|||" custom_padding="0px|||" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/trafficking/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Trafficking" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(127,127,127,0.46)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/trafficking-drug-offences.jpg" background_blend="multiply" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Trafficking
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/drug-production/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Production" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/drug-production-charges-defence.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Production
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Marijuana
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta admin_label="Cocaine" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cocaine-drug-offences-lawyer-2.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px|4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Cocaine
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="50px||50px|" global_module="2847"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Request Free Consultation Form" module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.9.4" text_orientation="center" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"]Request Free ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to find out if you're eligible for a free 30 minute phone consultation. Learn more »
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### Production
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="3.16" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="PRODUCTION" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/drug-production-charges-defence.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="94%" width_tablet="80%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="94%" max_width_tablet="80%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Definition" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid"]Definition
As the name suggests, production of scheduled substance means that the accused in some way created the illegal substance or was a party to the offence (meaning assisted or encouraged).
As with other drug offences, this offence is treated very seriously by police and the Crown. Depending on the type of substance created, it can carry minimum jail sentences of varying lengths. Many of the offences carry jail sentence of a year or more. 
Producing a Schedule I substance is by far the most punitive, carrying jail sentences of two years and in some cases three years.
Producing marijuana carries smaller penalties but minimum jail sentences are the norm.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|40px||40px" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Defence Strategy" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid"]Defence Strategy
Defending production charges may sometimes involve suggesting the person had no knowledge of the production facility or operation. It often involves breaches of Charter rights and allegations that search warrants were defective. In rare cases you might argue that the substance isn’t really the illegal substance but an imitation.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="3.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_margin="||0px|" custom_padding="||0px|" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||0px|" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-for-purpose-of-trafficking/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P)" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/trafficking-drugs-defence-lawyers.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P)
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||0px|" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/trafficking/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Trafficking" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(127,127,127,0.46)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/trafficking-drug-offences.jpg" background_blend="multiply" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Trafficking
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_margin="4px|||" custom_padding="0px|||" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-of-scheduled-substance/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession of scheduled substance" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/drug-charges-best-lawyers-ottawa.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]POSSESSION OF SCHEDULED SUBSTANCE
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/importing-exporting-drugs/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Importing" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/importing-drug-offences-criminal-lawyers.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Importing and Exporting
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Marijuana
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta admin_label="Cocaine" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cocaine-drug-offences-lawyer-2.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="|4px|4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Cocaine
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### Marijuana Drug Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="3.19.14" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="MARIJUANA DRUG OFFENCES" button_text="Frequently Asked Questions About Marijuana" button_link="/marijuana-faq/" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.19.14" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_align="center" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="48" body_font="||||" body_text_align="center" body_font_size="18" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/marijuara-charges-defence-lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" custom_button="on" button_text_size="16" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#017a49" button_font="||||" button_use_icon="off" button_alignment="center" header_font_size_tablet="30" header_font_size_phone="30" body_font_size_tablet="18" body_font_size_phone="18" button_text_size_tablet="16" button_text_size_phone="16"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||50px||false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Marijuana" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]Overview
On October 17, 2018, new regulations under the Cannabis Act went into effect, permitting the sale of marijuana for personal use. Like hashish, marijuana is a product of the cannabis plant, but is the leafier part of the plant. 
 It is now legal in Canada to: 
possess up to 30 grams of legal cannabis, dried or equivalent in non-dried form in public 
share up to 30 grams of legal cannabis with other adults 
 buy dried or fresh cannabis and cannabis oil from a provincially-licensed retailer
 in provinces and territories without a regulated retail framework, individuals are able to purchase cannabis online from federally-licensed producers 
grow, from licensed seed or seedlings, up to 4 cannabis plants per residence for personal use 
 make cannabis products, such as food and drinks, at home as long as organic solvents are not used to create concentrated products 
As of October 17, 2019, cannabis edible products and concentrates are legal for sale.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||150px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Marijuana" _builder_version="4.0.7" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid"]While the personal use of marijuana is now legal, there are still many aspects which remain illegal and can potentially lead to a criminal record. In Ontario, there is zero tolerance for cannabis use (including marijuana) by young or novice drivers, as well as by commercial drivers. Any use could result in licence suspensions and potential financial penalties. As with alcohol, there are prohibited amounts of THC (the active component of marijuana and marijuana) for drivers. It is a summary offence to have 2-5 nanograms (ng) of THC per mL of blood. It is a hybrid offence to have over 5ng of THC per mL of blood. When combined with alcohol, the legal limit is 2.5ng of THC and 50mg alcohol combined.
The penalty for driving under the influence of marijuana can vary. A blood THC level of 2-5 nanograms may result in a maximum $1000.00 fine. Any blood THC level over 5ng carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment. However, there are also minimum sentences which depend on the number of convictions a person has for drug driving. A first offence has a minimum $1000.00 fine. A second offence has a minimum 30 days imprisonment. A third offence carries a minimum 120 days imprisonment. The roadside licence suspensions and vehicle impounding that are associated with drunk driving also apply where drugs are involved.
In the case of impaired driving causing bodily harm carries a maximum sentence of 2 years less a day by summary conviction, or a maximum of 14 years by indictment. Impaired driving causing death is an indictable offence that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Similar to alcohol, it is a criminal offence to refuse a standard field sobriety test administered by police. In order to demand an oral fluid sample, police must reasonably suspect a person has drugs in their system. Blood samples are required to prove blood concentration levels.
The Cannabis Act establishes that provinces are responsible for establishing rules on the distribution and sale of cannabis products. In Ontario, any purchase outside of legally licenced stores or the government’s online store can result in a fine of up to $100,000.00 and one year in prison. Selling to a minor, or using a youth to commit a cannabis-related offence, can both result in a maximum 14 year prison sentence.
The possession of marijuana above permitted amounts is a hybrid offence. On summary conviction, an individual could be subject to 6 months imprisonment and/or a $5000.00 fine; an organization could be subject to a $100,000.00 fine. On indictment, the sentence can be up to 5 years imprisonment for individuals, or a fine in an amount that is at the court’s discretion for an organization.
For distribution and possession for the purpose of distribution, a summary offence could have different sentences. Depending on the exact charges, the sentence could either be: a) 6 months imprisonment and/or $5000.00 fine; or b) 18 months imprisonment and/or $15,000.00 fine for individuals, or a fine up to $100,000.00 for organizations. (It is best to speak with a lawyer to determine which applies in your specific situation.) On indictment, an individual could receive up to 14 years imprisonment, or in the case of an organization a fine in an amount that is at the court’s discretion.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="3.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.0.7" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_code admin_label="Drug Offences Video" module_class="video"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="0px||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Fentanyl[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta admin_label="Heroin" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/heroin-drug-charges-defence-lawyers-short.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px|4px|4px||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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button_two_bg_color__hover="null"]Hashish[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.0.7" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="%%3%%" custom_margin="4px||||false|false" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" 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### Trafficking
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.16" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="TRAFFICKING" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/trafficking-drug-offences.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Overview" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview
In Canada, trafficking in a scheduled substance is a very serious criminal offence carrying severe penalties including mandatory minimum jail sentences in some cases. Defences usually involve claims that police violated the accused constitutional rights.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_video _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" module_class="video" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGM7-WMa3gU" admin_label="Drug Offences Video"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.16" width="94%" width_tablet="80%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="94%" max_width_tablet="80%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Definition" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Definition
For the trafficking offence to be made out, it is required that the accused have sold or offered to sell the particular substance in question. Contrary to popular belief, it does not matter whether the substance was real or not. Merely holding out fake drugs for sale is sufficient.
Making understanding of this offence even more difficult is the fact that Canadian law makes it an offence to agree to make available the substance. Therefore, a verbal contract to deliver drugs would be sufficient. As a result, the exchange of money is not a prerequisite for a finding of guilt to trafficking.
There are a variety of Schedules to the CDSA. Schedule I contains the most harmful drugs (cocaine and heroin-based substances). Schedule II is primarily marijuana but also includes hashish and derivatives. Schedules III-IV contain other controlled substances including magic mushrooms, ecstasy, and steroids. By far the most common, Schedules I and II are the types seen most often in Canadian courts.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Evidence" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Evidence
This offence is normally investigated with undercover police officers posing as legitimate drug users and dealers. The police officer is often part of an elaborate sweep of traffickers, with a whole team of officers secretly taking photographs and making notes about the transaction. It is common to delay the arrest of the trafficker (even for several months) to preserve the anonymity of the undercover agent.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Penalty" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" header_font="|||on|" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalty
In law, there is a tremendous difference in penalty depending on the Schedule in which the substance is registered. For instance, trafficking in cocaine is punished much more severely than trafficking in marijuana. Even within a Schedule, penalties differ. Trafficking in crack cocaine will attract higher sentences than trafficking in powdered cocaine.
The reason for the different penalties is due to the particular scheduled substance’s harm to society and also the typically more lucrative compensation associated with its distribution.
Obviously, the quantities in issue will determine a great extent any sentence imposed. A couple of grams of cocaine might yield a 90-180 day jail sentence, whereas trafficking a couple of ounces might be worth a year or more. A pound or more will almost invariably lead to a lengthy jail sentence expressed in years, not months or days.
In 2012, a series of amendments to the CDSA resulted in many mandatory minimum sentences associated with certain types of trafficking (usually where the accused has a prior similar offence or the trafficking transpired in an area where children often frequent such as schools, parks, even movie theatres).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Defence Strategy" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defence Strategy
The most common type of defence in drug-related prosecutions is for an accused to argue that their Charter rights have been violated. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is part of our Constitution and police officers must respect an individual’s rights while they are investigating crime. Unfortunately, the law in Canada has shifted in recent years to a certain level of tolerance of violations of a person’s rights in favour of a pragmatic approach.
A violation of a person’s Charter rights enables that person to argue that the violation of their rights is more egregious than the drug offence for which they are charged and ask the judge to correct the injustice by excluding the evidence (typically leading to an acquittal of the accused).
Read this if police have found drugs on you – learn about search and seizure law
Other types of defence for possession cases involves the accused introducing a doubt about whether they had knowledge and or control over the drugs found.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="4.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.16" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_margin="||0px|" custom_padding="||0px|" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||0px|" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-of-scheduled-substance/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession of scheduled substance" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/drug-charges-best-lawyers-ottawa.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]POSSESSION OF SCHEDULED SUBSTANCE
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||0px|" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-for-purpose-of-trafficking/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P)" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/trafficking-drugs-defence-lawyers.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P)
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[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/importing-exporting-drugs/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Importing" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/importing-drug-offences-criminal-lawyers.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Importing and Exporting
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Marijuana
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta admin_label="Cocaine" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cocaine-drug-offences-lawyer-2.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px|4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Cocaine
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="50px||50px|" global_module="2847" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Request Free Consultation Form" module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.16" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]Request Free ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to find out if you're eligible for a free 30 minute phone consultation. Learn more »
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### Possession of Scheduled Substance
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Possession of a scheduled substance is the most common charge involving drugs in Canada. Rather than carrying increasing penalties, possession is often associated with addiction and Canadian law reserves an increasing amount of compassion for the plight of addicts. Make no mistake, however, there is no “turning a blind eye” for possession and arrests remain substantial.
Possession of a drug is not technically a criminal offence. In Canada, possession of a scheduled substance is a contravention of the Controlled Drug and Substances Act (CDSA), which outlines the offences and penalties for violations. For all intents and purposes, it is prosecuted the same way as a criminal offence so this distinction might be unnecessary.
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For the possession offence to be made out, it is required that the accused have possession of the particular substance in question. It is very important that the substance be legitimate. For instance, possessing a quantity of leafy green substance resembling marijuana but is actually oregano will not be sufficient. Similarly, the accused must have knowledge of the substance’s presence on their person or in their belongings.
As with trafficking, this offence can be subdivided by Schedule. Schedule I contains the most harmful drugs (cocaine and heroin-based substances). Schedule II is primarily marijuana but also includes hashish and derivatives. Schedules III-IV contain other controlled substances including magic mushrooms, ecstasy, and steroids. By far the most common, Schedules I and II are the types seen most often in Canadian courts
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Evidence" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Evidence
An arrest for possession of scheduled substance normally occurs within the context of another type of investigation. Any form of valid arrest gives police a certain amount of jurisdiction to search a person’s pockets and body incidental to arrest. For instance, a search of an impaired driver at the side of the road might reveal a small quantity of marijuana in the person’s pocket. In these types of cases, possession will almost invariably be made out.
This offence might also arise when officers attend a home and are given permission to search the residence by one of the occupants. It is common to find drugs in someone’s closet or in a drawer in a bedroom.
The substance is seized, weighed, and ultimately tested to determine if it is in fact a scheduled substance.
It is also common in roadside stops pursuant to the Highway Traffic Act for investigations to begin as valid driving-related investigations and for them to turn into warrantless CDSA searches. Various factors dictate whether the officer had the right to perform the search. One of the more common evidentiary factors is the officer indicates that the substance was “in plain view”, meaning it could be easily seen from outside the vehicle.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Penalty" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" header_font="|||on|" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalty
In law, like the trafficking offence, there is a tremendous difference in penalty depending on the Schedule in which the substance is registered. For instance, possession of cocaine is punished much more severely than possession of marijuana. Even within a Schedule, penalties differ. Possessing even miniscule amounts of crack cocaine will attract higher sentences than powdered cocaine.
The reason for the different penalties is due to the particular scheduled substance’s perceived harm to society and is an attempt to dissuade those who might consider using a harmless activity.
Obviously, the quantities in issue will determine a great extent any sentence imposed. For this offence, normally there is a small quantity of drugs discovered. Larger discoveries usually lead to the possession for the purpose of trafficking offence. The type of substance will dictate how much is required to attract the trafficking presumption. For instance, 10 grams of crack cocaine might lead to a P4P charge whereas a minimum of 30 grams of marijuana is required. Possession of amounts under these usually leads to the simple possession charge.
Sentences for possession are the most lenient of all forms of drug offences. This is due to society’s moderate compassion for addicts. Still, it remains prohibited to possess scheduled substances without a prescription and Canada’s current drug policy seems to be focused on punishment rather than rehabilitation.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Defence Strategy" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defence Strategy
The most common type of defence in drug-related prosecutions is for an accused to argue that their Charter rights have been violated. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is part of our Constitution and police officers must respect an individual’s rights while they are investigating crime. Unfortunately, the law in Canada has shifted in recent years to a certain level of tolerance of violations of a person&339;s rights in favour of a pragmatic approach.
A violation of a person’s Charter rights enables that person to argue that the violation of their rights is more egregious than the drug offence for which they are charged and ask the judge to correct the injustice by excluding the evidence (typically leading to an acquittal of the accused). Acquittals are becoming increasingly rare.
Other types of defence for possession cases involves the accused introducing a doubt about whether they had knowledge and or control over the drugs found.
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### Possession of Scheduled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking
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Possession for the purpose of trafficking (P4P) in a scheduled substance is a common charge that carries ever increasing penalties. It is not technically a criminal offence. In Canada, possession for the purpose of trafficking is a contravention of the Controlled Drug and Substances Act (CDSA), which outlines the offences and penalties for violations. For all intents and purposes, it is prosecuted the same way as a criminal offence so this distinction might be unnecessary.
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Possession of Scheduled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking: For a P4P offence to be made out, it is required that the accused have possession of the particular substance in question. In this case it is the amount of substance found that raises a presumption that the possession is for trafficking purposes, not consumption purposes. For this offence, it is very important that the substance be legitimate. For instance, possessing a large quantity of baking powder in clear baggies will not be sufficient.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Evidence" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Evidence
This offence can be investigated in a variety of ways. The police might find large quantities of drugs pursuant to an executed search warrant at the home of a suspected drug trafficker. While not caught actually distributing the substance, officers might discover drugs hidden in a safe in the suspect’s closet or in a drawer in a bedroom. The substance is seized, weighed, and ultimately tested to determine if it is in fact a scheduled substance. Sometimes this offence arises incidental to another valid investigation. For instance, police enter the home of a feuding couple and discover drugs in plain view on the coffee table.
It is common in P4P investigations for police to gather other indicators of trafficking besides the actual drugs. Items such as weighing scales, bags, debt lists, quantities of cash, plus other substances designed to dilute the substance (make more of it), or weapons might be included in the items seized to convince the court that trafficking behaviour was present.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Penalty" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" header_font="|||on|" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Penalty
In law, like the trafficking offence, there is a tremendous difference in penalty depending on the Schedule in which the substance is registered. For instance, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking is punished much more severely than P4P in marijuana. Even within a Schedule, penalties differ. P4P in crack cocaine will attract higher sentences than in powdered cocaine.
The reason for the different penalties is due to the particular scheduled substance’s perceived harm to society and also the typically more lucrative compensation associated with its distribution.
Obviously, the quantities in issue will determine a great extent any sentence imposed. For this offence, normally there is a rather large quantity of drugs discovered. The type of substance will dictate how much is required to attract the trafficking presumption. For instance, 10 grams of crack cocaine might lead to a P4P charge whereas a minimum of 30 grams of marijuana is required. Still, larger quantities lead to more severe penalties. Sentences for P4P can rise to the same level as trafficking but typically not quite as high.
In 2012, a series of amendments to the CDSA resulted in many mandatory minimum sentences associated with certain types of P4P (usually where the accused has a prior similar offence or the possession was accompanied by other factors like violence or weapons. These minimum sentences can be for a period of 1-2 years.
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The most common type of defence in drug-related prosecutions is for an accused to argue that their Charter rights have been violated. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is part of our Constitution and police officers must respect an individual’s rights while they are investigating crime. Unfortunately, the law in Canada has shifted in recent years to a certain level of tolerance of violations of a person’s rights in favour of a pragmatic approach.
A violation of a person’s Charter rights enables that person to argue that the violation of their rights is more egregious than the drug offence for which they are charged and ask the judge to correct the injustice by excluding the evidence (typically leading to an acquittal of the accused). Acquittals are becoming increasingly rare.
Other types of defence for possession cases involves the accused introducing a doubt about whether they had knowledge and or control over the drugs found.
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### You’ve talked to police as a domestic or sexual assault complainant and would like to revise your statement. Here’s how we can help.
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="3.28" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="You gave a statement to police and now your loved one is charged. You have conditions not to associate. This is not what you wanted. You would like to revise your statement. Here’s how we can help." use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.28" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/lawyer-client.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_margin="||0px|" custom_padding="||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="||0px|" custom_padding="||0px|"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="||0px|" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.28" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="18" custom_margin="||0px|" custom_padding="||0px|" border_style="solid"]You never wanted your loved one to be charged. You want to help. You can, but it’s a serious decision. Changing your police statement is not as simple as it seems. You may have tried to contact the police officer or Crown’s office. They were not interested in changing anything.
The most effective way to undo the original statement is to swear an affidavit with new details and an explanation for why the original statement was made and not accurate. 
But be forewarned: if you swear an affidavit saying that you lied originally, you could be charged with obstruction of justice, public mischief or both. It is a criminal offense to mislead the police and waste public resources. The Crown dealing with an obstruction or public mischief charge may try to have you saddled with a criminal record, even if you do not already have one. It is, however, unlikely this would happen, unless you are in the habit of giving false statements.
Armoured Suits’ lawyers can work with you to discuss what your options are and how best to proceed if you want to help your loved one. 
You can obtain a free, 30-minute phone consultation just by filling out the following form or calling us at 613.233.0008[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="44px|||" global_module="3045"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="How to Help"]Tell Us More About Your SituationPlease fill out the detailed form below to inquire about a consultation. We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours.
                        This field is hidden when viewing the formReference NumberFirst Name*Last Name*Email*
                        PhoneThe following statement best describes my situation*
				I am already charged and have a court date
				I have been contacted by police but not yet charged
				Police have not yet called but I expect that they will
				Police have not yet called and I don't know if they will
				I have a loved one who has been arrested or is about to be arrested
				I am looking to file an appeal
				I have been served with court documents from a government tribunal
				I have been the victim of a crime
				None of the above
			Until a police call is expected, there is still uncertainty about whether a lawyer will be needed. 
 Our staff will review your inquiry and determine if we feel we are able to assist.Select this option if you have received documents requiring your response from entities like the Canadian Human Rights Commission.We can, in some cases, assist victims of crime in areas such as recanting your police statement or defending motions where the accused seeks to access your personal, private records or seeks to question you about other sexual behaviour. Initial Inquiry Preference*
				Phone Consultation
				In Person Meeting
			Upon receipt of your inquiry, expect a member of our team to contact you to ensure we have enough information for the consultation.There is an hourly charge for In-person meetings, however, if we are hired to work beyond the initial meeting we will credit 30mins of the cost of that meeting back onto your next invoiceWhich jurisdiction did the incident take place?*If no match below, please approximate. If there are multiple jurisdictions try to select the most important incident or larger city or town.Select One...OttawaWithin 2 hour drive of OttawaAlexandriaArnpriorBrockvilleCornwallGuelphKemptvilleKingstonL’OrignalLondonNiagara FallsNorth BayPembrokePerthPeterboroughRenfrewSaint CatherinesSault St. MarieSmith’s FallsSudburyThunder BayTorontoWindsorOtherDo you have a lawyer
				Yes, I already have a lawyer
				No, I don't have a lawyer
			If yes and you already have a lawyer, is the relationship officially over?
				Yes
				No
			Are you looking for a second opinion?
				Yes
				No
			Has your lawyer been informed relationship is over?
				Yes
				No
			Do you mind providing the lawyer’s name?Please describe your relationship to that personParentSpouseChildFamilyFriendOtherDoes your loved one already have a lawyer?I don’t know if my loved one has lawyerNo, my loved one doesn’t have lawyerYes, my loved one already has a lawyerWhich of the following is MOST IMPORTANT to you?
				Level of Experience
				Cost
				Payment Terms (including timing of payments)
				Emotional Responsiveness
				Speed of Response To Your Communications
			Do you have a gender preference for the lawyer handling your case?
				Indifferent
				Female
				Male
			Choose the answer that best describes your reason for reaching out to Armoured Suits
				Good reputation
				Recommended by friend
				First hit on Google search
				One among many firms I have contacted or intend to contact
			How Did You Hear About Us?
								Referral
								Returning Client
								Google/Bing Search
								Social Media
								Bench or Billboard Ad
								Bus Ad
								Radio Ad
								Television Ad / Television Appearance
								Weather Network Ad
							Do you remember the search terms used?
				Yes
				No
			Search TermsWas it an online ad or website link?
				Link to Website in Search Results
				Online Ad
			Name of ReferralThis field is hidden when viewing the formEntered By:Short Description of the Incident
[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Has your loved one been charged and you don’t know what to do? We can offer assistance here, as well.
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="3.28" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="Has your loved one been charged and you don’t know what to do? We can offer assistance!" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.28" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-5.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_margin="||0px|" custom_padding="||0px|"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.9.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="18"]When a spouse, family member, or child gets charged with a criminal offence, overwhelm can quickly set in.  You want to help but don’t know how. You fear unknown consequences: jail time? Criminal record? Job loss? Inability to live with you? 
Fear not. Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers can help. 
There are two things you and your loved one need immediately: advice and representation. 
You need advice because this is completely foreign to you. You don’t know what’s involved, how long it takes, how much it costs, or where to even begin. Dealing with police and the court system is intimidating. The consequences, very serious.
Your loved one needs representation because they are all alone! They don’t know what to do either! They need someone fighting for them.
We begin the process with a phone consultation. We get to know you and you get to know us. Once we both feel a measure of comfort, then we arrange a face-to-face meeting.
It’s crucial to have the right legal team to help. With our years of experience, we can help. Fill out the following form to arrange a 30-minute consultation.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="44px|||" global_module="3045"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="How to Help" _builder_version="4.9.4"]Tell Us More About Your SituationPlease fill out the detailed form below to inquire about a consultation. We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours.
                        This field is hidden when viewing the formReference NumberFirst Name*Last Name*Email*
                        PhoneThe following statement best describes my situation*
				I am already charged and have a court date
				I have been contacted by police but not yet charged
				Police have not yet called but I expect that they will
				Police have not yet called and I don't know if they will
				I have a loved one who has been arrested or is about to be arrested
				I am looking to file an appeal
				I have been served with court documents from a government tribunal
				I have been the victim of a crime
				None of the above
			Until a police call is expected, there is still uncertainty about whether a lawyer will be needed. 
 Our staff will review your inquiry and determine if we feel we are able to assist.Select this option if you have received documents requiring your response from entities like the Canadian Human Rights Commission.We can, in some cases, assist victims of crime in areas such as recanting your police statement or defending motions where the accused seeks to access your personal, private records or seeks to question you about other sexual behaviour. Initial Inquiry Preference*
				Phone Consultation
				In Person Meeting
			Upon receipt of your inquiry, expect a member of our team to contact you to ensure we have enough information for the consultation.There is an hourly charge for In-person meetings, however, if we are hired to work beyond the initial meeting we will credit 30mins of the cost of that meeting back onto your next invoiceWhich jurisdiction did the incident take place?*If no match below, please approximate. If there are multiple jurisdictions try to select the most important incident or larger city or town.Select One...OttawaWithin 2 hour drive of OttawaAlexandriaArnpriorBrockvilleCornwallGuelphKemptvilleKingstonL’OrignalLondonNiagara FallsNorth BayPembrokePerthPeterboroughRenfrewSaint CatherinesSault St. MarieSmith’s FallsSudburyThunder BayTorontoWindsorOtherDo you have a lawyer
				Yes, I already have a lawyer
				No, I don't have a lawyer
			If yes and you already have a lawyer, is the relationship officially over?
				Yes
				No
			Are you looking for a second opinion?
				Yes
				No
			Has your lawyer been informed relationship is over?
				Yes
				No
			Do you mind providing the lawyer’s name?Please describe your relationship to that personParentSpouseChildFamilyFriendOtherDoes your loved one already have a lawyer?I don’t know if my loved one has lawyerNo, my loved one doesn’t have lawyerYes, my loved one already has a lawyerWhich of the following is MOST IMPORTANT to you?
				Level of Experience
				Cost
				Payment Terms (including timing of payments)
				Emotional Responsiveness
				Speed of Response To Your Communications
			Do you have a gender preference for the lawyer handling your case?
				Indifferent
				Female
				Male
			Choose the answer that best describes your reason for reaching out to Armoured Suits
				Good reputation
				Recommended by friend
				First hit on Google search
				One among many firms I have contacted or intend to contact
			How Did You Hear About Us?
								Referral
								Returning Client
								Google/Bing Search
								Social Media
								Bench or Billboard Ad
								Bus Ad
								Radio Ad
								Television Ad / Television Appearance
								Weather Network Ad
							Do you remember the search terms used?
				Yes
				No
			Search TermsWas it an online ad or website link?
				Link to Website in Search Results
				Online Ad
			Name of ReferralThis field is hidden when viewing the formEntered By:Short Description of the Incident
[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Have you been arrested by police? Have police called looking to speak with you? Don’t know what to do? We can help.
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="3.28" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="Have you been arrested by police? Have police called looking to speak with you? Don’t know what to do? We can help." use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.28" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/handcuffs-2102488_1280.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.28" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Being a suspect in a criminal investigation or, worse yet, being arrested, is a profoundly upsetting experience. Thoughts turn to losing your job, your family, your freedom. Will I be able to travel? Will I see jail time? All remarkably common worries.
Luckily, WE HAVE (most of) THE ANSWERS. 
While the seriousness of the specific charge you are facing dictates the answer to many of the above questions, there are steps you can take IMMEDIATELY to reduce the chances of encountering one of these undesirable outcomes. If you are found not guilty of the charges, then NONE of these outcomes materialize. That’s why it’s important to get us involved EARLY.
The following times are the most important to contact us:
Police call you and say they are investigating an incident that you are involved in and want your side of the story
You have been arrested by police, are still at the station, and they want you to provide a statement about what happened (in this case you won’t be calling directly, the police will make the call to us)
You were arrested in the last day or so and have been given a court date
At these critical times, it’s important to have the right information and the right strategy for how to deal with your case. Get a trusted lawyer to advise you and fight for you. We’re here to listen to your side of the story. Fill out the following form to arrange a free, 30-minute phone consultation with us as your first step.
As a criminal defence lawyer with years of experience, I can help you. If the charge is not particularly serious and you don’t have a prior criminal record, I can assist you in getting bail set, and keep you out of police custody while you await your trial. From there, I will do everything I can to get the charges withdrawn before the case reaches court. If the case does reach court, I will defend you to the very best of my abilities to make sure that a not guilty verdict is reached. If you are sentenced, however, I will fight to make sure you are treated fairly.
Choosing the right lawyer for you is important, and we're here to listen to your side of the story. Fill out the following form to arrange a free, 30-minute consultation with us as your next step.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="44px|||" global_module="3045" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="How to Help" _builder_version="4.14.5" global_colors_info="{}"]Tell Us More About Your SituationPlease fill out the detailed form below to inquire about a consultation. We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours.
                        This field is hidden when viewing the formReference NumberFirst Name*Last Name*Email*
                        PhoneThe following statement best describes my situation*
				I am already charged and have a court date
				I have been contacted by police but not yet charged
				Police have not yet called but I expect that they will
				Police have not yet called and I don't know if they will
				I have a loved one who has been arrested or is about to be arrested
				I am looking to file an appeal
				I have been served with court documents from a government tribunal
				I have been the victim of a crime
				None of the above
			Until a police call is expected, there is still uncertainty about whether a lawyer will be needed. 
 Our staff will review your inquiry and determine if we feel we are able to assist.Select this option if you have received documents requiring your response from entities like the Canadian Human Rights Commission.We can, in some cases, assist victims of crime in areas such as recanting your police statement or defending motions where the accused seeks to access your personal, private records or seeks to question you about other sexual behaviour. Initial Inquiry Preference*
				Phone Consultation
				In Person Meeting
			Upon receipt of your inquiry, expect a member of our team to contact you to ensure we have enough information for the consultation.There is an hourly charge for In-person meetings, however, if we are hired to work beyond the initial meeting we will credit 30mins of the cost of that meeting back onto your next invoiceWhich jurisdiction did the incident take place?*If no match below, please approximate. If there are multiple jurisdictions try to select the most important incident or larger city or town.Select One...OttawaWithin 2 hour drive of OttawaAlexandriaArnpriorBrockvilleCornwallGuelphKemptvilleKingstonL’OrignalLondonNiagara FallsNorth BayPembrokePerthPeterboroughRenfrewSaint CatherinesSault St. MarieSmith’s FallsSudburyThunder BayTorontoWindsorOtherDo you have a lawyer
				Yes, I already have a lawyer
				No, I don't have a lawyer
			If yes and you already have a lawyer, is the relationship officially over?
				Yes
				No
			Are you looking for a second opinion?
				Yes
				No
			Has your lawyer been informed relationship is over?
				Yes
				No
			Do you mind providing the lawyer’s name?Please describe your relationship to that personParentSpouseChildFamilyFriendOtherDoes your loved one already have a lawyer?I don’t know if my loved one has lawyerNo, my loved one doesn’t have lawyerYes, my loved one already has a lawyerWhich of the following is MOST IMPORTANT to you?
				Level of Experience
				Cost
				Payment Terms (including timing of payments)
				Emotional Responsiveness
				Speed of Response To Your Communications
			Do you have a gender preference for the lawyer handling your case?
				Indifferent
				Female
				Male
			Choose the answer that best describes your reason for reaching out to Armoured Suits
				Good reputation
				Recommended by friend
				First hit on Google search
				One among many firms I have contacted or intend to contact
			How Did You Hear About Us?
								Referral
								Returning Client
								Google/Bing Search
								Social Media
								Bench or Billboard Ad
								Bus Ad
								Radio Ad
								Television Ad / Television Appearance
								Weather Network Ad
							Do you remember the search terms used?
				Yes
				No
			Search TermsWas it an online ad or website link?
				Link to Website in Search Results
				Online Ad
			Name of ReferralThis field is hidden when viewing the formEntered By:Short Description of the Incident
[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Kathleen M. Kealey - Criminal Defence Lawyer
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminal-law-firm-ottawa.jpg" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" _builder_version="4.16" parallax="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="KATHLEEN M. KEALEY" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.26)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="||||" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,3_4" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kathleen-kealey-criminal-lawyer-ottawa-191x300.jpg" alt="kathleen kealey criminal lawyer ottawa" title_text="kathleen-kealey-criminal-defence-lawyer" _builder_version="4.22.2" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset3" global_colors_info="{}" align="center" max_width="190px" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]KATHLEEN M. KEALEY, B.Soc.Sc., LL.B.
Criminal Defence Lawyer[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/how-we-help/" button_text="How We Help" button_alignment="center" admin_label="How We Help Button" _builder_version="4.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="3_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" custom_margin="|||30px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Fast Facts About Kathleen[/et_pb_text][et_pb_tabs admin_label="Tabs" module_id="lawfirm-tabs" _builder_version="4.16" custom_css_main_element="display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_tabs_controls="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:flex;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tab="width:100%;||text-align:center;||margin:auto;||height:calc(100% / 5);||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_active_tab="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;" global_colors_info="{}" custom_css_main_element_tablet="Display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_main_element_phone="display:block;" custom_css_main_element_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tabs_controls_tablet="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tabs_controls_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tab_tablet="width:100%;||text-align:center;||min-height:50px;||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||height:auto;" custom_css_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_active_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #0094D9;" custom_css_active_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_content_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tabs_content_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_controls_phone="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_active_tab_tablet="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content_tablet="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;"][et_pb_tab title="Criminal Practice Areas" _builder_version="4.16" body_font="|600|||||||" global_colors_info="{}"]Kathleen feels comfortable defending any criminal charge, however the following areas are of particular interest:
Domestic Violence Offences
Human Rights Code Violations
Regulatory Offences
Sexual Assault
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Education" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]
 	2002 University of Ottawa B.A. (Hon.)(English & Communication)
 	2008 University of Ottawa LL.B. (Bachelor of laws)
Called to the Bar
 	Law Society of Ontario - 2017
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Professional Affiliations" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]
 	Renfrew County Law Association
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Contact" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Email: kathleen.kealey@armouredsuits.ca
Mobile: 613.878.7345
Office: 613.233.0008[/et_pb_tab][/et_pb_tabs][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="||on||||||" text_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" custom_padding="|24px||24px|false|true" global_colors_info="{}"]Kathleen Kealy is an Associate of Armoured Suits and a trial and appellate lawyer. She works hard to be a strong, knowledgeable and resourceful representative for her clients.
Kathleen frequently travels outside Ottawa for cases and is a member of the Renfrew County Law Association.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Background
Kathleen has always been passionate about criminal law. She started her career working for the federal government. After seven years, she decided to begin practicing law. Kathleen started working with Joshua Clarke when she was a student and remained as an associate of Armoured Suits following her call to the bar in 2017.  
Interests
When not practicing law, Kathleen loves to run the Ottawa running paths. She likes to spend what free time she has focusing on fitness.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Professional Interests
Kathleen’s particular areas of professional interest include sexual assault and domestic violence offences. “These cases are unique,” Kathleen says, “often involving solely one person’s word against another. Experience has taught me that showcasing the dynamics of a particular relationship can be a key element in successfully defending these cases.” 
Kathleen understands that these areas of law can be particularly overwhelming for clients often at a loss as to how to defend themselves. She enjoys helping clients through this difficult process.
She is also interested in regulatory offences and violations of the Human Rights Code. While offences that fall in this area do not usually result in a criminal record, many people do not realize they can come with significant penalties.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_enable_color="off" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Depositphotos_18958887_s-2019.jpg" parallax="on" width="100%" max_width="100%" custom_margin="|0px||0px|true|false" custom_padding="0px|0px|0px|0px|true|false" custom_css_main_element="min-width:100%;" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="||on||||||" text_text_color="#ffffff" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.6)" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true" custom_padding="100px|100px|100px|100px|true|true" global_colors_info="{}"]
Throughout my ordeal, I never doubted once that Kathleen believed me. She produced the ultimate result and I have my life and name back. This was done extremely economically I might add.
This firm raises the bar (pardon the pun) for legal representation in Ottawa. I hope our paths will cross again – but this time outside of the legal system.
You cannot go wrong entrusting Kathleen or Joshua with your case. I promise.
- Anonymous[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="||on||||||" text_text_color="#ffffff" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.6)" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true" custom_padding="100px|100px|100px|100px|true|true" global_colors_info="{}"]Charges withdrawn in exchange for peace bond, a best possible, and completely unexpected outcome for the case. This outcome saved valuable time, and money that would have otherwise been spent on trial, as well as negated the risks.
Mr. Clarke, and his associate, Kathleen, were valuable assets every step of the way, providing insight, recommendations, and reassurance; as well as explaining the proceedings, in a clear, and concise manner.
- Jacob[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Joshua A. Clarke - Criminal Defence Lawyer
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminal-law-firm-ottawa.jpg" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" _builder_version="4.16" parallax="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="JOSHUA A. CLARKE" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.26)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="||||" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_enable_color="off" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,3_4" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/joshua-clarke-criminal-lawyer-ottawa-190x300.jpg" alt="joshua clarke criminal lawyer ottawa" title_text="joshua-clarke-ottawa-defence-lawyer" align="center" _builder_version="4.22.2" max_width="190px" box_shadow_style="preset3" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]JOSHUA A. CLARKE, B.A., LL.B.
Lawyer / Managing Director[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/how-we-help/" button_text="How We Help" button_alignment="center" admin_label="How We Help Button" _builder_version="4.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="3_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" custom_margin="|||30px|false|false" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Fast Facts About Joshua[/et_pb_text][et_pb_tabs admin_label="Tabs" module_id="lawfirm-tabs" _builder_version="4.27.0" hover_enabled="0" custom_css_main_element="display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_tabs_controls="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:flex;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tab="width:100%;||text-align:center;||margin:auto;||height:calc(100% / 5);||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_active_tab="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;" global_colors_info="{}" custom_css_main_element_tablet="Display:flex;||border:none;" custom_css_main_element_phone="display:block;" custom_css_main_element_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tabs_controls_tablet="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_tabs_controls_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_tab_tablet="width:100%;||text-align:center;||min-height:50px;||border:none;||border-right:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||height:auto;" custom_css_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_active_tab_phone="border-left:2px solid #0094D9;" custom_css_active_tab_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_content_phone="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;" custom_css_tabs_content_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_css_tabs_controls_phone="min-width:150px;||max-width:300px;||display:block;||flex-wrap:wrap;||background-color:rgba(0,0,0,0);" custom_css_active_tab_tablet="border-right:2px solid red;" custom_css_tabs_content_tablet="border-left:2px solid #D6D6D6;||margin-left:-2px;" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_tab title="Criminal Practice Areas" _builder_version="4.27.0" body_font="|600|||||||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Joshua feels comfortable defending any criminal charge, however the following areas are of particular interest:
 	Domestic Offences
 	Sexual assault
 	Fraud
 	Drugs
 	Impaired Driving
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Education" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]
 	2002 University of Ottawa B.A. (Hon.)(English & Communication)
 	2008 University of Ottawa LL.B. (Bachelor of laws)
Called to the Bar
 	Law Society of Ontario - 2009
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Professional Affiliations" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]
 	Criminal Lawyers’ Association
 	Defence Counsel Association of Ottawa
 	County of Carleton Law Association
 	Barristers for a Better Bytown

[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Charitable Causes" _builder_version="4.24.0" global_colors_info="{}"]
	Reach Canada
	CHEO
	Canadian Cancer Society
	Royal Ottawa Hospital
	Action Réfugiés Montréal
[/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title="Contact" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Email: joshua.clarke@armouredsuits.ca
Mobile: 613.863.5137
Office: 613.233.0008 x 522
[/et_pb_tab][/et_pb_tabs][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.16" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="||on||||||" text_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" custom_padding="|24px||24px|false|true" global_colors_info="{}"]Joshua Clarke is an experienced trial and appellate lawyer. He knows clients want and deserve the best possible result for their case.
Joshua is committed to keeping clients fully-informed throughout their experience. The high quality service he provides includes cost-efficiencies that he is committed to finding wherever possible.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Background
Joshua grew up in Ottawa, where he discovered a lifelong passion for the Toronto Maple Leafs AND Ottawa Senators (yes, both). Before being called to the bar, Joshua served as an artillery officer in the Canadian Armed Forces. Retiring in 2003, Joshua knew he wanted to continue giving an important service to Canadians, so he went to law school.
Interests
In his spare time, Joshua can often be seen at the Ottawa Hunt and Golf club. He likes spending time with his spouse and two young children. Joshua is very interested in physical fitness and is never happier than when riding his motorcycle.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits
After his call to the bar, Joshua co-founded the firm that would become Armoured Suits. Joshua knew that many lawyers were good with the law, but too few focused on the service they provided their clients. For Joshua, good service comes from efficient systems. He has focused on developing and implementing systems that:
Keep his clients informed at every stage of the process
Standardize the delivery of legal services so that everyone in the firm contributes to the client's service
Utilize technology to create efficiencies, thereby reducing overall cost
Joshua’s clients benefit from his calm demeanour and reasoned approach to their cases. His extensive courtroom experience and razor-like focus on getting justice for his clients makes him an excellent choice to lead your defence.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_enable_color="off" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Depositphotos_18958887_s-2019.jpg" parallax="on" width="100%" max_width="100%" custom_margin="|0px||0px|true|false" custom_padding="0px|0px|0px|0px|true|false" custom_css_main_element="min-width:100%;" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="||on||||||" text_text_color="#ffffff" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.6)" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true" custom_padding="100px|100px|100px|100px|true|true" global_colors_info="{}"]Mr. Clarke represented my case phenomenally from the beginning. He was very comforting and easy to talk to and explained everything in different scenarios to make sure I understood everything clearly. I can’t thank him and his team enough for the best possible outcome…case closed.
- Christopher[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="||on||||||" text_text_color="#ffffff" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.6)" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="0px|0px|0px|0px|true|true" custom_padding="100px|100px|100px|100px|true|true" global_colors_info="{}"]Acquitted, not guilty.
This was the best possible outcome for my case. Believe me, now that this matter has been resolved, it has helped turn my fortunes around one hundred and eighty degrees toward the better.
- Stephane[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]Joshua In The Media[/et_pb_text][et_pb_post_slider posts_number="8" include_categories="80" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.24)" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.3)" header_text_shadow_style="preset3" body_text_shadow_style="preset3" text_shadow_style="preset3" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_post_slider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Disclaimer
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.14.5" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="DISCLAIMER" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/writing-1149962_1920.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Establishing Attorney-Client Relationship
The knowledge obtained from this website, nor use of this website to contact Armoured Suits does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Armoured Suits. As a matter of policy, Armoured Suits will accept new clients after first investigating the particulars to these cases, to avoid possible conflicts of interests and/or having obtained written consent from your own legal counsel, should you have already acquired one. Accordingly, you should not use this website to provide confidential information about a legal matter (of your interest) to Armoured Suits.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Material Provided, Not Legal Advice
Any available materials on this website, nor any linked material here is intended to be, should be relied on as a substitute for legal or other professional advice. Users visiting this site, be it clients or otherwise, should refrain from acting on the basis of any material contained in this website or any linked material without first seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances. Any legal advice (on a specific matter) should be consulted with a qualified and experienced attorney.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Guarantee of Results
Many of the case summaries on this website describe results obtained in matters handled for clients of Armoured Suits. These summaries only provide information about Armoured Suit’s extensive experience in variety of cases, as a criminal defence lawyer. They are not intended as a guarantee that the same or similar results can be obtained in every matter undertaken by him; and you should not assume that a similar result can be achieved in a legal matter of interest to you. The outcome of a specific case depends on a variety of factors—including the ability of opposing counsel, the specific legal and factual circumstances, and, in some instances, unexpected developments beyond the control of any client or attorney.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Links To Other Websites or Reference Materials
This website contains links and references to websites maintained by other third parties/organizations not related to Armoured Suits, and is for general information purposes only.

 These links and references have been included for the interest and convenience of visitors to this website. Armoured Suits does not:
 	sponsor, endorse or approve of the opinions expressed on the linked web sites or the products and services available on the linked web sites;

 nor,
 	guarantee that the information in those linked websites is accurate, definitive or complete

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### How We Help
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="||0px|" custom_css_main_element="margin-bottom:0;||padding-bottom:0;" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="Roboto||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_line_height="1.1em" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" custom_css_main_element="margin-bottom:0px;||padding-bottom:0px;" custom_css_after="margin-bottom:0px;||padding-bottom:0px;" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="How We Help Our Clients" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_level="h1" header_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="50" body_font="Roboto||||" body_font_size="22" body_line_height="1em" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#363636" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20px" button_font="Roboto||||" button_use_icon="on" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="off" hover_enabled="0" header_font_size_tablet="50" header_font_size_phone="50" header_line_height_tablet="1em" header_line_height_phone="1em" body_font_size_tablet="22" body_font_size_phone="22" body_line_height_tablet="1em" body_line_height_phone="1em" custom_css_main_element="text-align:center !important;||margin:10px auto;" custom_css_slide_button="text-align:center;||margin:25px auto;" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" sticky_enabled="0"]Consultation ServicesORFull Representation[/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Banner Down Arrow" _builder_version="4.16" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" module_id="next_section" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#000000" custom_css_main_element="margin-top:-8px;" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row module_id="fullrepresentation" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Ways to work with our Attorneys" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="15px" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="24px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]There are 2 main ways to work with us:[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" module_id="freeconsult fullrepresentation" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Need to consult with our lawyers? We offer three levels of consultation depending on your need:" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#ffffff" header_2_text_color="#ffffff" header_2_line_height="1.1em" custom_margin="||10px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]CONSULTATION
Need to consult with our lawyers? We offer three levels of consultation depending on your need:
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title="Level 1: Free Half-hour Phone Consultation" admin_label="Level 1: Free Half-hour Phone Consultation" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Facing criminal charges? We use this consultation to get a general understanding of your situation and determine if Armoured Suits can help you
We offer a free half-hour phone consultation for individuals who have outstanding charges and are not represented. 
 Learn More »
For many inquiries, including those who have questions, we typically offer Level 2, which is a paid consultation.
example: The police have contacted you and are going to arrest you. We determine the likely charges and their relative seriousness. We also determine whether you will need a bail plan and provide an initial retainer cost.
example: You already have a lawyer but want to change because they never call you back. We help you find ways to resurrect relationship with your current lawyer. If you and your current lawyer cannot save the relationship, we discuss next steps.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="Level 2 - Paid 60 min Consultation" admin_label="Level 2 - paid consultation" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.19.2" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
We recommend this option if you have a lot of questions or are experiencing a very specific situation, not involving outstanding charges. Have you tried and failed to get answers elsewhere? This is the best option for you.
example: A surety supervising an accused person on bail wants to know their options. They also want to know how to do their job without getting into trouble with the law.
example: I have never been in trouble with the law but my employer asked me to get a criminal record check and I did. The record showed that I may have a criminal record.
example: I met a girl last week and we had sex. I heard from my friend that she is threatening to call the police because she says our sex was not consensual.
example: You have been victimized and the police aren’t doing anything. We will most likely not be able to assist but we may be able to assist with a peace bond application.
[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="Level 3 - Paid Legal Opinion" admin_label="Level 3 - Paid Legal Opinion" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Have a complicated legal concern? This option will get you a more thorough legal opinion 
During a phone or in-person meeting, we will get a detailed background of your situation, much like Level 2, but our lawyers go further to research the concern, using concrete legal examples to provide you with an in-depth opinion.
example: A graphic designer wants to draw erotic images. However, they not want to risk violating obscenity or child pornography laws. The designer wants to know what is and is not captured under the criminal law.
example: A private school in Ontario discovers one of its employees had sex with a student under 18. They want to know if they have to report this to the authorities.
example: You want to import firearms into Canada. You need to know if the specific items you want are legal to own in Canada
example: You own a business in Ontario and you have employees. You want to create a safe work environment. You have heard about criminal negligence and want to make sure you are following the law.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_text admin_label="Need to consult with our lawyers? We offer three levels of consultation depending on your need:" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#ffffff" global_colors_info="{}"]Not sure which Level is best for you? Our Client Relations Coordinator can help you work out what you need for your specific circumstances. Get in touch today.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="FULL REPRESENTATION" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#ffffff" header_line_height="1.1em" header_2_text_color="#ffffff" custom_margin="||10px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]FULL REPRESENTATION
Full representation differs from consultation because the lawyer-client relationship is expected to last longer than one or two meetings. Full representation also includes work that the firm must perform on the client’s behalf that is usually implied. Full representation is most often sought by clients who have been officially charged with criminal offences. A person who has been charged will require frequent, ongoing service throughout the life of the charge.
Full representation requires the client to provide a retainer (pre-payment of money held in trust) to ensure the firm can continue to work on the client’s file. Periodically, an invoice will be produced to the client for the work the firm has performed. Payment is taken from money in trust. Once money has been depleted, the client is asked to provide further funding (if required).
Full representation sees the firm’s role change from purely advisory services (consultation) to also include advocacy services (championing the client’s cause with the prosecutor and the court).[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="#paymentmethods" button_text="Learn more about payment plans" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Payment Plans Button" _builder_version="4.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="25px||||false|false" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="How To Help Form" module_class="lexiform" _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Tell Us More About Your Situation
Please fill out the form below to inquire about a consultation. We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours.
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[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" module_id="paymentmethods" _builder_version="4.20.2" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.11)" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" module_id="paymentplans" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Payment Plans" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="18" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]We offer payment plans to permit you to spread out the costs of your defence!
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Fee Structure" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How we structure our fees
You only pay us for the work that we do on your behalf. Our rate is set at the point of contract. We work efficiently to keep costs down.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Retainer" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Retainer
A retainer is partial pre-payment for services expected and agreed to be provided.  The funds are held in a trust account until services are performed.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Consultations" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Consultations
We offer an initial free 30-minute phone consultation with Robert, our Client Services Coordinator.  In person or longer phone consultations for a minimal fee that will be applied to your fees if you retain us.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="After initial retainer is expended" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]After initial retainer is expended
When you require services beyond the amount of the initial retainer, we meet with you, focus on your objectives and strategies to get there.  At this time, we discuss the additional fees that would require and work with you to find a satisfactory plan.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Payment methods" module_id="freeconsult" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Payment methods
We have client friendly terms which means we work with you. We accept the following forms of payment: cash, certified cheque, bank draft, e-transfer, credit card, debit transactions and in some situations, personal cheques.
Please speak to an associate to inquire about other forms of payment (such as Apple Pay or Bitcoin)[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Section" module_class="practice_home" _builder_version="4.9.4" custom_padding="||0px|" hover_transition_delay="50ms" global_module="2008" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Legal Practice Areas" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto Condensed||||||||" text_text_color="#363636" text_letter_spacing="1px" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#363636" header_font_size="36px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_2_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|||||" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="36px" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_width="3px" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Practice Areas
Now serving Ottawa and select cases across Ontario and the Gatineau Region.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="2_3,1_3" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="2_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Sexual Assault" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Sexual Assault The issue of valid consent is far from black and white, and the criminal justice system takes sexual assaults extremely seriously ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Domestic Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"]
Domestic Offences The damage extends beyond merely reputational issues; there are very real financial, emotional, and legal consequences to those persons charged ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impaired DUI Lawyer" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Impaired Driving An impaired driving charge is the most likely reason that an individual comes into contact with the criminal justice system ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Drug Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Drug Offences Trafficking in a scheduled substance is a common charge that carries ever increasing penalties and is not technically a criminal offence ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Criminal Negligence" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="||0px|" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Criminal Negligence Criminal negligence is the failure on the part of a person on whom a duty is placed to take reasonable steps to prevent a certain bad outcome from happening ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Fraud" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Fraud A strategically sound course of action when dealing with a fraud charge could mean the difference between a sentence of imprisonment or something much less severe ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Firearm Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Firearm Offences Illegal firearms possession is the most common firearms related criminal charge, and is categorized as a hybrid offence with the potential to be pursued ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Youth Criminal" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Youth Charges When a young person is charged with a criminal offence, there are many more procedural safeguards put in place to protect their rights than adults have ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_id="load_more" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/load_more.jpg" align="center" align_tablet="center" align_phone="" align_last_edited="on|desktop" admin_label="Load More" _builder_version="4.16" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="left" animation_duration="500ms" animation_intensity_slide="10%" border_style="solid" sticky="off" always_center_on_mobile="on" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Section" module_id="hide" module_class="practice_home" _builder_version="4.9.4" custom_padding="||30px|" hover_transition_delay="100ms" global_module="2010" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="2_3,1_3" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="2_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Breaches of Court Order" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Breaches of Court Order / Fail to Comply When a person is charged with a criminal offence and released from custody pending its disposition (bail), the person will be released subject to conditions ... 
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Murder / Manslaughter Murder is defined within the Criminal Code of Canada (section 231(1) as either first degree or second degree murder. Any intentional killing of another that is planned and deliberate will constitute first degree murder ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Assault Charges" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Assault ChargesThere is assault causing bodily harm, assault with a weapon, and aggravated assault ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Regulatory Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Regulatory Offences Regulatory offences can have different standards when it comes to knowledge and intention, especially when it comes to corporate accused. Strict liability is the norm when it comes to regulatory offences ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Break & Enter" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Break & Enter The offence of Breaking and Entering can also carry with it “lesser but included offences” such as Being Unlawfully In a Dwelling-House or Mischief ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Theft" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Theft The crime of theft requires that someone takes possession of something,
or takes steps in order to move, or eventually convert the object in a manner which is fraudulent ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="3_5,2_5" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="3_5" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Robbery Charges" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Robbery An assault coupled with the mere intent to steal also qualifies as robbery as defined by the Criminal Code of Canada ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Hate Crimes" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Hate Crimes Definitions of what constitutes a hate crime are highly variable, and as a consequence, ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="2_5" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Pornography Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Pornography Offences For a pornographic picture, video or any other material to be illegal, it must be deemed to be obscene ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Child Luring" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.20.2" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Child Luring Under Canadian law, child luring involves the use of technology with the intent to lure or entice a child under the age of 18 for the purpose of engaging in sexual exploitation, incest, child pornography, and/or sexual assault... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Arson" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Arson There are several types of arson, each with its own set of circumstances and penalties. ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="3_5,2_5" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="3_5" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Regulatory Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Regulatory Offences Regulatory offences can have different standards when it comes to knowledge and intention, especially when it comes to corporate accused. Strict liability is the norm when it comes to regulatory offences ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Criminal Harassment" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Criminal Harassment Criminal harassment occurs when someone engages in repeated actions that ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="2_5" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Mischief" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Mischief While every case is unique, there are several potential defences to a mischief charge ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Uttering Threats" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Uttering Threats Uttering threats is defined as knowingly conveying or causing a person to receive a threat to cause death or bodily harm to any person, to damage property or ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" admin_label="Row" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.16" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/accused-of-a-crime-interviewed-by-the-police/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Have you been charged" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-0.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Have you been charged with a criminal offence or are worried you might be charged?
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/loved-one-has-been-charged/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Loved One has been charged" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sureties-lawyer-kids-ottawa.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Has your loved one been charged and you don't know what to do?
 
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="/revise-police-statement/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Made or Change a Police Statement" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.46)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/writing-1149962_1920.jpg" background_blend="multiply" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]You've spoken to police as a complainant and would like to revise your statement
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### Youth Criminal Charges
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" admin_label="section" module_class="content-a" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="rgba(255,255,255,0)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminallaw-background.jpg" custom_padding_tablet="50px|0|50px|0" custom_padding_phone=""][et_pb_row padding_mobile="off" column_padding_mobile="on" admin_label="row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="0px||0px|" make_fullwidth="off" use_custom_width="off" width_unit="on"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font_size="35px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" use_border_color="off"]Was your child charged by the police?
Avoid a Criminal Record and protect your child’s future.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" column_padding_mobile="on" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" module_class="content-b et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="3.25" background_color="rgba(232,232,232,0.77)" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" width="89%" width_tablet="80%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="89%" max_width_tablet="80%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_padding="10px|20px|10px|20px" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone="" make_fullwidth="on"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.9.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16" text_line_height="1.8em" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="20px|10px|20px|20px" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"]When a young person is charged with a criminal offence there are many more procedural safeguards put in place to protect their rights than adults have. The reason these additional safeguards are needed is due to the higher level of immaturity and unfamiliarity young people have with their rights and how to exercise them.
Get in touch about a free consultation on your case – (613) 233-0008[/et_pb_text][et_pb_code hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" disabled_on="on|on|off" _builder_version="3.23.4" height="40px" hide_on_mobile="on"][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.9.4" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"]Request a Free Phone ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to inquire about a free 30-min phone consultation.  We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours or call us at (613) 233-0008
                        Name*Email*
                        Send a Message or Describe Your Case*
[/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_padding_mobile="on" custom_padding_last_edited="on|phone" module_class="content-d-wrap" _builder_version="3.25" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.37)" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="0px||0px|" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone=""][et_pb_column type="4_4" module_class="content-d" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="20px|80px|200px|80px"]
 
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### DUI Lawyer Ottawa
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" admin_label="section" module_class="content-a" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="rgba(255,255,255,0)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminallaw-background.jpg" custom_padding_tablet="50px|0|50px|0" custom_padding_phone="" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row padding_mobile="off" column_padding_mobile="on" admin_label="row" module_class="content-a" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto|||on|" text_font_size="22" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="45px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="||25px|" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Charged with a DUI?
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" column_padding_mobile="on" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" module_class="content-b et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="rgba(232,232,232,0.77)" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" width="89%" width_tablet="80%" width_phone="" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="89%" max_width_tablet="80%" max_width_phone="" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" custom_padding="10px|20px|10px|20px" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone="" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" disabled_on="on|on|off" _builder_version="4.16" height="40px" hide_on_mobile="on" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16" text_line_height="1.8em" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="20px|10px|20px|20px" global_colors_info="{}"]Avoid a Criminal Record and Protect Your Reputation
An impaired driving charge is the most likely reason that an individual comes into contact with the criminal justice system. Being stopped at the roadside is humiliating, embarrassing and can have dramatic consequences to the individual’s liberty, finances, career, and ability to travel.
Get in touch to consult on your case or call (613) 233-0008
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|" header_font_size="25px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="20px|10px|20px|20px" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone="" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Different Types of Charges
Impaired driving has to do with a witness (either civilian or police officer) observing indicia of impairment (poor driving, blood shot or glassy eyes, inability to walk or stand properly, odour of alcohol on the breath, slurring speech). The over 80 offence has to do with a technical evaluation of the actual quantity of alcohol in a person’s blood (as usually measured by their elimination of alcohol on their breath). It refers to an alcohol concentration in a person’s blood in excess of 80mg per 100ml of blood. For a basic impaired case, the accused will be charged with both but can only be properly convicted of one. The reason both are used is to prevent the accused from avoiding conviction by virtue of “technicalities.” The accused person must beat both counts if they are to avoid a criminal record.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text ul_position="inside" ul_item_indent="12px" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16" text_line_height="1.9em" ul_line_height="2em" header_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|" header_font_size="25px" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="20px|10px||20px|false|false" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone="" custom_padding_last_edited="on|desktop" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Standard DUI Defences
Defences that are considered “standard” are:
that the person charged was not the driver of the vehicle at the relevant time (either because someone else reasonably could have been the driver or the Crown can’t prove that it was the accused who was driving)
that the person charged had no other choice but to drive to preserve life or other emergency
that the person was not impaired at the time of driving
that the breathalyzer(s) were not functioning correctly
that the accused did not understand the demand
that the accused did not willfully fail to provide a sample
that the vehicle was physically incapable of moving
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_margin="0px||25px||false|false" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Read More About DUI Charges[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" disabled_on="on|on|off" _builder_version="4.16" height="40px" hide_on_mobile="on" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_video src="https://youtu.be/tcBssBE1u7Q?si=sqWbGW4xiEsyjgA-" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" border_radii="on|17px|17px|17px|17px" border_width_all="2px" global_colors_info="{}" border_color_all="#7c7c7c" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_video][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.27.4" global_colors_info="{}"]Request a Free Phone ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to inquire about a free 30-min phone consultation.  We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours or call us at (613) 233-0008
                    Contact Armoured Suits
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            How can we help you?
            Leave this Blank if are sentient 
[/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_padding_mobile="on" custom_padding_last_edited="on|phone" module_class="content-d-wrap" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.37)" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="0px||0px|" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone="" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" module_class="content-d" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="20px|80px|200px|80px" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
 
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### Sentencing
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.14.5" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_text_align="center" header_level="h1" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="SENTENCING" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview of Sentencing
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Once there has been a finding of guilt for someone accused of committing a crime, a sentencing hearing will take place where a sentence is handed down from the judge.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The sentencing hearing may take place immediately following a trial, or in the near future depending on whether or not there are victim impact statements or scheduling issues, for example.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]In its most simple form, a sentencing hearing only lasts several minutes as a result of both the defence and the Crown agreeing on a sentence, which is called a joint submission. In this scenario, a judge will often agree with the joint submission, although it is common for them to make changes with regards to release or probation conditions.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The purpose of sentencing, as explained in the Criminal Code of Canada, is to promote respect for the law, and “the maintenance of a just, peaceful and safe society by imposing just sanctions that have one or more of the following objectives:
 	to denounce unlawful conduct;
 	to deter the offender and other persons from committing offences;
 	to separate offenders from society, where necessary;
 	to assist in rehabilitating offenders;
 	to provide reparations for harm done to victims or to the community; and
 	to promote a sense of responsibility in the offenders, and acknowledgement of the harm done to victims and to the community.” (Criminal Code, s. 718).
In order to determine a sentence that is fair, the court will consider statutory provisions of the Criminal Code of Canada (and other relevant legislation) in addition to case law, in order to ensure similar treatment for similar offenders. The judge will consider a variety of factors including age and likelihood the offender’s rehabilitation, and the circumstances which surrounded the crime’s commission.
Factors considered to determine the severity of a crime and thus the expected severity of the sentence are classified as either aggravating or mitigating factors. An aggravating factor makes the offence worse. A mitigating factor reduces the seriousness of the offence. The court will consider whether or not the crime was motivated by hate of an identifiable group, whether or not they abused a spouse or a child, or otherwise abused a position of trust, and if the criminal offence was committed in connection to a criminal organization (Criminal Code, s. 718(2)), subject to other aggravating circumstances listed by the Criminal Code of Canada. Although the Criminal Code does not explicitly list any mitigating circumstances, a court will often give consideration where the accused plead guilty, or cooperated with a police investigation for example, the person’s age and whether this is their first offence.
 
Absolute & Conditional Discharge
In situations where the judge determines it is in the best interest of both the accused and the public interest not to give the offender a criminal record, they may order that the accused be granted either a conditional or absolute discharge (Criminal Code, s. 730(1)). A discharge is considered to be the lowest level sentence that an offender can receive because the discharge does not carry with it any jail time, the offender is not deemed to have been “convicted,” and the finding of guilt will be expunged from the offender’s criminal record. As a result of the absolute discharge, the offender’s charges are completely resolved and there is no further action required by the offender.
In contrast, a conditional discharge will often be accompanied by a probation order (Criminal Code, s. 731(2)) where the offender is required to keep the peace and be of good behaviour, refrain from being in possession of drugs, alcohol, etc. A conditional discharge will remain accessible on the offender’s criminal history for a period of up to three years after the probation condition has expired. The offender need not apply for a pardon, however, in order for the discharge to be removed from their file.
 
Suspended Sentence
A suspended sentence IS a criminal record. The offender is convicted and a criminal record will remain in perpetuity absent explicit action taken by the offender to have the record suspended (the pardon language no longer exists – it is now called a record suspension).
The suspended sentence is usually followed by probation but otherwise there is no jail, nor any fine payable (except the surcharge – see below).
 
Probation
In the event that an offender is convicted of a low level crime that does not have a mandatory minimum sentence attached, the court may elect to release the offender on the conditions of a probation order. The court will consider the “age and character of the offender, the nature of the offence and the circumstances surrounding its commission,” (Criminal Code, s. 731(1)) in order to determine whether or not a probation order meets the principles of sentencing (as outlined in the “Overview” section). Anyone that has been sentenced to a jail term of less than two years is also subject to a probation order of up to three years.
Below is a list of the compulsory conditions of a probation order, where applicable:
 	keep the peace and be of good behaviour;
(a.1) abstain from communicating, directly or indirectly, with any victim, witness or other person identified in the order, or refrain from going to any place specified in the order, except in accordance with the conditions specified in the order that the court considers necessary, unless
 	the victim, witness or other person gives their consent or, if the victim witness or other person is a minor, the parent or guardian, or any other person who has th lawful care or charge of them, gives their consent, or
 	the court decides that, because of exceptional circumstances, it is not appropriate to impose the condition;
 	appear before the court when required to do so by the court; and
 	notify the court or the probation officer in advance of any change of name or address, and promptly notify the court or the probation officer of any change of employment or occupation.”(Criminal Code, s. 731.1(2))
In addition to the compulsory conditions outlined above, a probation order may include conditions which require that the offender does not consume any illicit drugs, in addition to alcohol or any other “intoxicating substance,” and at the request of the probation officer, submit to a drug test. Other common conditions include the completion of a specified number of community service hours, pay restitution to the victim(s) for any loss they may have caused, and participate in a drug treatment program.
If an offender breaches a condition of their probation and does not provide a reasonable excuse, they are guilty of a criminal offence which may be pursued either as an indictable offence with a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment, or on summary conviction with a maximum penalty of eighteen months and/or a fine not exceeding $2,000 (Criminal Code, s. 733.1). Where an offender fails to comply with a probation order, they will be subject to time served in custody until a bail hearing, or if bail is denied, a hearing on whether or not the accused did in fact breach their probation.
 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Fines & Victim Fine Surcharge
A court may fine an offender in lieu of, or in addition to a term of imprisonment, subject to statutory guidelines for a minimum or maximum fine amount. The court must first determine whether or not the offender has the ability to pay the fine, and may even seek to pay the fine with money found on the offender at the time of arrest (Criminal Code, s. 734(6)). It is important that the fine be paid in full, or at the minimum that the court endorsed payment plan is followed, otherwise the offender is subject to imprisonment for defaulting payment of the fine. The court is required to clearly explain the required payment terms for the fine, how the offender can submit payments, etc.
Despite an Ontario Court Justice recently striking down the mandatory victim fine surcharge as unconstitutional, Ontario Superior Court Justice Bruce Glass has upheld the constitutionality of the mandatory surcharge, subject to appeal (current May 2015). The victim fine surcharge, which required that the offender pay an additional 30% of any fine imposed by the court for an offence, otherwise $100 for every summary conviction and $200 for any indictable conviction (Criminal Code, s. 747(2)), has been a hotly debated topic and will surely continue to be one.
 
Intermittent Sentence
An intermittent jail sentence, otherwise known as serving “weekends,” is a sentencing option a judge may consider as an alternative to a traditional “consecutive days,” sentence where the imprisonment is for ninety days or less. A successful argument for an intermittent sentence is often made where the offender is gainfully employed or enrolled in school. If the court determines that an intermittent sentence is helpful to the offender’s outlook for rehabilitation, while adequately satisfying the principles of sentencing, the judge may grant the request. In the event that an intermittent sentence is handed down, the offender will satisfy the sentence by serving chunks of time, for example during the week or on weekends (as determined by the court), until the required number of days has been served. During the time where the offender is not in custody, they will be required to abide by a set of probationary terms.
 
Conditional Sentence
Where a court imposes a sentence of imprisonment of less than two years and is “satisfied that the service of the sentence in the community would not endanger the safety of the community,” (Criminal Code, s. 742(1)) in addition to meeting the requirements to both punish but also aid in the rehabilitation of the offender, the court may consider a conditional sentence order. A conditional sentence is characterized as an imprisonment sentence that is an alternative to serving time in jail, in order to supervise the offender’s behaviour in the community, often under “house arrest,” accompanied by a strict set of conditions (Criminal Code, s. 742(1)). The conditions accompanying a conditional sentence are typically that the offender remains at home at all times, with the exception of going to work and school, for medical emergencies and other health related appointments. Conditional sentences are almost always accompanied by a curfew, and the offender must work with a probation officer in order to meet conditions.
If the offender breaches the conditions of the sentence, they will be held in custody either until they are granted release (bail), or pending a hearing on whether the breach occurred. An offender that is alleged to have breached their conditions may be arrested on the suspicion of a breach without a warrant, and the onus is on them to provide a reasonable excuse for the alleged breach (Criminal Code, s. 742.6(1)).
Parliament has recently made amendments to the Code that remove a conditional sentence as a viable sentencing option for certain types of offences.
 
Imprisonment
A custodial sentence, also known as imprisonment, “jail time,” etc. is imposed where an offender has been convicted of an offence that carries with it a mandatory minimum sentence, or, in order to satisfy the principles of sentencing, the court determines it is required. An offender that has been convicted of a summary offence, unless stated otherwise within legislation, is liable to a maximum of six months imprisonment. Those found guilty of an indictable offence are liable to a maximum of life in prison and potentially subject to mandatory minimums for specific offences.
Where an offender is sentenced to an imprisonment term of less than two years, the offender may be eligible to receive a conditional sentence (discussed above). If denied a conditional sentence, an offender serving less than two years will serve their sentence in a provincial jail, and may also be granted early release for good behaviour after serving two thirds of their sentence. Sentences of more than two years imprisonment are to be carried out in a federal penitentiary. An offender serving more than two years may be eligible for parole in as soon as one third of their total time has been served, unless the sentence expressly determines the earliest possible parole submission. If eligible, an offender that is not deemed to be of high risk to the public may achieve statutory release after they have served two thirds of their total prison sentence. However, Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will continue to supervise the offender in the community and they may be returned to prison if they are determined to present a risk to society.
 
Pre-Trial Custody
Where an accused person has served time in remand jail prior to a finding of their guilt, a judge may grant additional credit for time served, at a ratio of up to 1.5 days for every 1 day served. This often occurs where an accused person has endured exceptional circumstances while in custody, or simply served a considerable amount of time prior to their finding of guilt and subsequent sentencing. Prior to recent legislation, it was common for an accused serving pre-trial custody to receive 2:1 or even 3 days credit for every one day served in remand jail.
Note: For statutory guidelines and principles for sentencing regarding a specific type of charge, please refer to the corresponding page found at Practice Areas
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
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### Trial Procedure
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.16" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="TRIAL PROCEDURE" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-4.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Trial Procedure
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]A criminal trial is a formal hearing in court whose purpose is to determine if an accused person is guilty of a specific charge or charges. In Canada, the Crown must prove an accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. While this expression ‘beyond a reasonable doubt’ is familiar to us, understanding what it means can be tricky.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]It has been held that beyond a reasonable doubt means proof not rising to a level of absolute certainty but it is much closer to that than merely proof on a balance of probabilities (think 50% +1).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]There are jury trials in Canada but only for the most serious offences (indictable) and usually only if the accused wants to be tried by a panel of his or her peers. Usually, trials are decided by a judge sitting alone either in provincial court or superior court.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEOfVhy2faE" module_class="video" _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Trial Procedure
A criminal trial begins with the formal arraignment (reading of the charges) of the accused(s). A plea of “not guilty” is required in most cases. Once the arraignment has begun, the Crown commences producing evidence to demonstrate that an accused was the perpetrator of the particular offences.
The most common form of evidence relied upon in Canada is testimony. Testimony is sworn declarations of a human witness in court. Witnesses testify from the witness box (it’s not called the stand in Canada). Lawyers ask the witness questions and the responses are evidence. Every word is recorded so that a record of everything is kept.
The party calling a witness asks open-ended questions seeking the witness to relate what they saw, heard, or felt. Once that party is finished asking their questions, the opposing party is entitled to cross-examine that witness.
Cross-examination is intended to flush out whether the witness was actually able to see, recall, or hear what they say they have. Further, cross-examination can be used to discredit the witness by creating some doubt as to their honesty.
Once each party who has a right to cross-examine has done so or has chosen not to, the party calling a witness has a limited right of re-examination (confined usually to topics arising in cross-examination and not contemplated by the party calling that witness).
This process repeats itself until the Crown has called all of its witnesses. Once it is finished, the defence is put to its election (whether or not to call any evidence).
There is no requirement for the defence to call evidence. As a corollary, it is therefore not required that an accused person testify in his/her own defence. The accused may choose to do so and in some circumstances might bear a tactical onus to offer their side of the story.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Once all witnesses who are going to testify have done so, the evidence is complete. The next portion of the trial is legal submissions. Submissions are usually verbal representations (sometimes written) to the judge or jury about how the law relates to the evidence that was heard. It is common for lawyers to refer to previous cases (called jurisprudence) to show how those previous cases were decided to help persuade the judge or jury that the current case being litigated should be decided in the same way.
Each party is entitled to make submissions. It is uncommon for objections to be made at this stage but the judge or jury may have questions of the lawyer(s).
Once submissions are complete, the trier of fact (judge or jury) must decide the case. In the case of a jury trial, the jurors are sequestered to deliberate on everything that they have heard. In a judge alone case, sometimes they pronounce their decision immediately. Other times, they ask to come back on another date having been given an opportunity to closely review everything that has been said.
A decision about the guilt or non-guilt of the accused is rendered either verbally or in writing and sometimes both. The judge or jury will address the main aspects of the case demonstrating why they were persuaded by a particular witness’ version and perhaps why they were not persuaded by another’s.
If an accused is found not-guilty of all the counts for which they stood trial, they are free to go. An acquittal carries a tremendous amount of legal significance.
If an accused is found guilty or one or more counts, then a sentencing process must be undertaken: see sentencing.
Sometimes a party who has been unsuccessful seeks to appeal the decision of the judge or jury.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Help
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### Bail Conditions
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.14.5" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="BAIL CONDITIONS" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminal-procedures-1.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Bail – Types
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]When a person is charged with a criminal offence and released from custody pending its disposition (bail), the person will be released on one of two main types of order: either released by the police from the station or released from the court house.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]If a person is released by the police without appearing before a Justice of the Peace, they will be released on an Officer in Charge (OIC) UNDERTAKING.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]If the accused is brought before a Justice in court, then typically the release is called a RECOGNIZANCE. Both types of document contain conditions that have full legal effect and must be complied with.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Bail Conditions" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Bail Conditions
Regardless of which type of release is ordered, the accused’s release from custody will be subject to CONDITIONS.
A condition is a requirement that an accused person must follow if they are to remain out of jail. Some conditions require that an accused perform some action (go to drug counselling). Some conditions require that an accused refrain from performing some act (not to be away from residence between certain hours – curfew).
Failure to follow these terms invites re-arrest, new charges (see breaches of court order) and cancellation of the previous form of release. Some accused who were released initially are no longer eligible for release and must remain in custody before trial.
An incredibly common condition for accused persons is not to have any contact with a witness or victim of the offence either directly or indirectly. Typically there will be a radius from the person’s home or workplace. This is quite often difficult for accused person to follow in a domestic partnership because the victim is often the one initiating the contact. It will not matter to the police who initiated the contact. An accused person with this condition is required to take positive steps to avoid the victim or witness. If they happen to come into their vicinity by happenstance, the accused person must leave immediately. No exceptions.
 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Help
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Varying the Conditions" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Varying the Conditions
All too often an accused person is released from custody on the promise to follow his or her conditions, but then discovers that a condition is unworkable. Naturally, there is a temptation to agree to anything in order to be released. Once released, the accused comes to terms with the reality of the new conditions and how it restricts their liberty.
They quite often wish to change their conditions because they do not like them. Perhaps another justification is relied upon to explain why the condition should be changed, claiming some need. However, conditions were the cost of being released. Accused people must understand that they are not easily changed.
It IS possible to vary the conditions but usually not on the accused person’s schedule. Meaning, it usually takes months of following the stringent conditions before anyone (either Crown or Court) would consider altering them.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Consent of The Crown" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Consent of the Crown
If the Crown consents to the variation, it is much more likely to happen. It can usually be done without a formal hearing. Depending on the condition being sought to change, it can sometimes be very difficult to obtain the Crown’s consent.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Formal Variation Hearing" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Formal Variation Hearing
Failing the Crown’s consent, it is possible to schedule a hearing to argue the change in condition. It is effectively a bail hearing except the accused is already out of custody. This can be a costly and time-consuming pursuit.
However, if successful, the condition will be changed and the old form of release modified to include the new terms.
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### Sureties
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Sureties" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.14.5" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_text_align="center" header_level="h1" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="SURETIES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sureties-lawyer-kids-ottawa.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is a surety?
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]A surety is a way of encouraging an accused to follow his or her bail conditions. A surety can be cash money that is deposited into court (on the accused’s behalf) or more often it is a person who comes forward and pledges a sum of money (not paid initially) and who supervises an accused person on bail.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Why do we need sureties?
Sureties are required for certain types of accused who are subject to certain types of charges. Typically for individuals charged with crimes of violence or who have been subject to previous forms of release and are charged again, a surety is a way that the court can acquire some comfort that the accused will be motivated to comply with their conditions.
When a person is in custody, the court will know where they are and what they are doing. In jail, the accused is constantly supervised.
When a person is released on bail, the court will lose direct supervision of that person. A surety is a system to garner a measure of oversight into the accused’s behaviour while out of custody.
 
When are sureties required?
There is no formula, but sureties are only required if the accused is brought to court for bail. The more serious the charge, the more likely a surety will be required.
 
What is a surety’s duration of commitment/involvement?
A surety’s obligation begins when the accused is released from jail and continues until 1) the surety asks to be removed of the obligation (go to court for this); 2) the accused is taken into custody; 3) the criminal charges are completely finished (either the accused has been acquitted or has been sentenced). Often this can take a year or more to complete.
 
Who makes an appropriate surety?
There is no rule governing who may be a surety, however in practice it is often a relative or family friend who is prepared to embark on this serious obligation. Typically sureties will not have a criminal record. They will be able to have the accused live with them (though in some cases this is not required). A surety is often a person of some substance, who is willing to place loyalty to the court and their pledge ahead of their loyalty to the accused.
 
How does money enter the equation?
Sometimes, cash is deposited into court to act as the surety. An accused person, knowing that money has been paid into court, is believed to think twice about deviating from their bail conditions knowing that their money is at risk of being forfeited.
More often, however, the money is simply “pledged”, meaning, a human surety agrees to risk a sum of money that is effectively hanging over their heads. If the accused violates their bail, the government can come after the surety for the amount of money pledged.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is the surety’s obligation?
A surety promises to supervise an accused person while on bail. This means:
 	Ensuring the accused attends their court dates;
 	Ensuring the accused follows their bail conditions to the letter;
 	Ensuring the accused does not commit new criminal offences;
 	Promises to call the police if any of the above is not strictly complied with.
 
How do I become a surety?
There are two ways a surety can be approved for this role:
 	the proposed surety comes to court and meets with the Crown attorney who interviews them for suitability; or
 	the proposed surety testifies at the accused’s bail hearing and is approved by the Justice of the Peace.
 
Crown Interview of Surety
Typically this method is used only if there is a possibility that the Crown will consent the accused’s release. There are many charges and types of accused (for instance, a person with a lengthy criminal record) for which no consent will likely be given. In this latter instance, the likely process would be to go straight to the bail hearing.
But for many accused, a Crown interview will be sufficient to allow the surety and the Crown to acquire the necessary trust that the surety will discharge their obligations of supervision.
 
Bail Hearing
A bail hearing is a formal hearing in court to decide if the accused person will be released from jail pending the disposition of their charges.
A surety will sit in the court room and hear the charges and alleged facts behind the charges read out. Having heard the allegations, a surety will be called to testify as a witness in the hearing.
The surety is asked questions by the accused’s lawyer and after by the Crown. Once all the questions have been answered, the surety is asked to return to the body of the court to observe the remainder of the hearing.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Help
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### Bail Procedure
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.16" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="BAIL PROCEDURE" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/testimonials.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Bail Procedure
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]In most instances after a person has been arrested, they are taken to the police station. There are constitutional rights that need to be given to and exercised by the accused (right to call a lawyer).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Often the police want to give the accused an opportunity to make a statement regarding the offence.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Once all of this is completed, a decision will be made as to their risk profile and whether the accused poses a continuing risk if they were to be released from custody.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cs7Cgfkyjzw" module_class="video" _builder_version="4.20.2" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Released from the station
Whether an accused is released from the station or held is an exercise of police discretion. Senior officers at the station evaluate the accused’s risk profile and determine whether to release from the station or bring the accused into court. Therefore it can be difficult to predict which option will be selected based upon the limited information present in the early phase of the arrest and charging procedure.
However, it can be said that it is common for first time offenders and youth to be released from the station, especially for non-violent offences.
 
Released from Court – on consent
If the accused is not released right away they will be brought to court to decide the bail issue (usually the next morning but not always). By this time, an accused person has often contacted a lawyer. That lawyer will usually either attend personally the next day or delegate someone from their firm to attend if they are personally unable.
If brought to court, the lawyer can sometimes negotiate the accused’s release with the Crown Attorney. Quite often, this negotiation involves having a person (typically a family member of the accused) agree to supervise the accused while on bail. This office is known as a surety.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Released from Court – bail hearing
If the Crown is unwilling to release the accused under any circumstances, then the accused must fight to obtain their release at a bail hearing. A bail hearing is a formal hearing where the allegations are made known to the Justice of the Peace (the presiding judicial officer at the hearing). Any criminal record the accused has will be tendered against them. Then the accused will be expected to present their plan of release (sureties, conditions, where they will live).
A bail hearing can often be set within a few days of arrest. A note of caution: it is sometimes advisable to delay bail for a week or more while a proper plan of supervision is devised. The pressure to get out of jail is high but a failed bail hearing means at least 30 days in custody so it is important to organize all the details. While awaiting the bail hearing, the accused person stays in custody.
What is being determined at the bail stage is whether conditions can be crafted to avoid the accused person:
 	not showing up for court;
 	not following their conditions; or
 	committing new criminal offences.
 
Released from Court – bail review
If a person is detained at the bail hearing, they must wait a minimum of 30 days before applying for a review of the decision. There is additional cost to this process and it is quite time consuming.
There are two grounds for release at the bail review stage: 1) error of law; or 2) material change in circumstances.
Error of law means that the Justice of the Peace made an error in their reasoning in that they misapprehended the evidence, placed inappropriate weight on a piece of evidence, misstated the law or otherwise made a palpable error.
Material change in circumstances means that something has changed in the case that justifies reviewing the bail issue. Either new evidence has surfaced, previous evidence is called into question, or a new plan of supervision has emerged. One of these changes could be sufficiently material to justify a hearing.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
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### Legal Terms
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.14.5" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="LEGAL TERMS" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminal-procedures-lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Legal Terms
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Acquittal 
An acquittal is a verdict after a trial following that the Crown has not proven beyond a reasonable doubt that the person accused of a crime is guilty. This determination can be made by either a judge or a jury depending on what mode of election the defence made (that is, so long as an election is available). The accused is free to leave and the conditions he or she was subject to also disappear.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"] Appeal
An appeal is a formal request to review an inferior court’s decision. In some cases, an accused must apply for leave to appeal.
 
 Bail
Bail is the release of an accused person from custody while the charges remain outstanding.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Bail Hearing
If the accused is not released either from the place of arrest or from the police station after signing a promise to appear, then he/she is brought into court to decide the bail issue. A bail hearing is a court proceeding to determine if the accused should be allowed to be released from custody pending resolution of the charges (either by guilty plea or trial or other disposition).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Legal Glossary" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Bail Review
If an adult is denied bail then he or she can bring an application for bail review to the Superior Court of Justice. The application must be filed in accordance with the Rules of Criminal Procedure, which include the mandatory filing of transcripts for the proceedings to be reviewed. A substantial change in circumstances of the accused or an error in law by the lower court or the expiry of a mandatory review period is necessary in order to bring the application for bail review. The addition of a new surety or the change of a surety is often viewed as a material change in circumstances.
 
Bail Variation
If bail conditions become impossible to honour, there is a mechanism by which one can seek to change the conditions. There are two ways: 1) with the Crown’s consent; 2) by conducting a contested hearing.
If there has been a bail hearing, and if the Crown will not consent to the variation of bail conditions, then the only alternative is to bring an application for bail variation in the Superior Court. While this is quite often successful, it is also quite often cost and time prohibitive.
 
Breach
Breach is a legal term meaning “did not follow”. Breaching a court order is a criminal offence and is probably the single most common charge in the criminal justice system. Courts do not take lightly allegations or findings of guilt for violations of court orders.
 
Charter
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms is a part of the Constitution of Canada. It is the supreme law of Canada. All Canadian legislation must conform to its principles. The Charter guarantees certain rights and freedoms including: the right to trial without unreasonable delay, the right to a reasonable bail, the right to be free of unreasonable search and seizure, the right to counsel, the right not to be arbitrarily detained, and the right to silence. The Charter is used frequently in criminal law but it applies only where the state (government) is a party. Given that prosecutions are conducted by the government in the public interest, it follows that the Charter applies to the conduct of state agents including police and the Crown Attorney.
 
Conditional Sentence
A conditional sentence is a jail sentence that is permitted to be served in the community. While it may sound contradictory to serve a jail sentence in one’s home, the conditions imposed are strict, usually forbidding any departure from one’s residence except for work or to obtain the necessities of life.
The sentence is only available if the sentence that would otherwise have been imposed is less than 2 years in custody. There are additional statutory and common law restrictions on the imposition of conditional sentence as well.
Although it is a flexible instrument which can be tailored for a wide range of facts and circumstances, a conditional sentence is unavailable for a “serious personal injury offence”.
 
Conviction
A conviction is the finding of guilt, beyond a reasonable doubt, and the entering of a criminal record. This record is held by the RCMP forever. In some cases, one can apply to “seal” the record. This process is now called a record suspension (formerly pardon).
 
Deferred Custody
Deferred custody is a sentence under the Youth Criminal Justice Act and is the youth court equivalent of a conditional sentence.
 
Discharge
There are two types of discharges: absolute and conditional. Neither type of discharge constitutes a criminal record. This is because although the court makes a finding of guilt, no conviction is entered against the accused. There is therefore no record of conviction. It is the record of conviction that constitutes a “criminal record.” There are no conditions attached to an absolute discharge. Three years following the absolute discharge, the discharge is automatically expunged and essentially becomes the equivalent of a pardon.
A conditional discharge becomes absolute after the expiry of the conditions ordered by the court. These conditions, that can be can be virtually anything that the court deems appropriate, are generally the same sorts of conditions that might be attached to a less serious peace bond or a more serious probation order. Discharges must not be contrary to the public interest and must be in the interest of the accused person. In addition there must be no minimum sentence applicable to the offence in order to qualify for a discharge.
 
Diversion
Diversion is a method of resolving a case by having the accused person accept responsibility for his/her conduct and performing some community service, making a donation, attending counseling, writing a letter of apology or some combination of those or other good deeds. Once the good work is done to the satisfaction of the Crown, the charge is typically withdrawn. This is almost invariably a desirable result for an accused person but it does involve that person accepting responsibility for the offence. If an accused is not able to do that, then diversion is not a suitable option. There is no criminal record after successful diversion.
 
E.J.S. (Extra Judicial Sanctions)
Extra judicial sanctions are a manner of disposing with a criminal offence for youth. It is usually community service. These are roughly akin to adult diversion programs. A young person will be asked to take responsibility for his/her actions, perform community service, write letters of apology, write essays or undertake some other measure that is a consequence without the weight of the full court process. It is not a youth record. The charges are typically either stayed or withdrawn. This is a great result for a young person charged with a criminal offence.
 
Fine
A fine is a payment of money to the government as part of a sentence. It is one form of entry onto a criminal record. A fine can sometimes be paid over a period of months depending on the convicted person’s ability to pay.
 
Indictable Offence
An indictable offence is one which corresponds to the English or American classification of felony. These are considered to be more serious crimes and the penalties increase accordingly. The accused person is however afforded the advantage of having a preliminary hearing if he/she so chooses. After the preliminary hearing, if it is determined that there is enough evidence to send the accused person to trial, the defence has a choice of whether to have a trial by judge alone in the Superior Court, by judge and jury of the Superior Court or by judge alone in the Ontario Court.
 
Indictment
An indictment is the piece of paper which particularizes the charge once a matter has been committed to the Superior Court.
 
Information
An information is a paper which particularizes the charge in the Ontario court of Justice. It is also the name of papers sworn to obtain warrants.
 
Intermittent Sentence
If the period of jail is 90 days or less, then an intermittent sentence may be imposed. This is a jail sentence typically served on the weekends to allow the inmate to attend work during the week. Sentences beyond 90 days cumulatively cannot be served intermittently.
 
Jail
Jail is the imposition of confinement at a correctional institution. If the period of jail is less than two years, it will be served at a provincial detention center. If the period of incarceration is two years or greater, than the term of incarceration will be served at a federal prison.
 
Judicial Pretrial
Some cases require judicial pretrials in order to proceed to trial. Here, the estimates for time and witnesses as well as application or motion issues will be discussed with the Crown and the judge. Judicial input sometimes assists in more accurate estimates. Judicial input may also influence one party or another to consider a particular strength or weakness to a case. This may help the parties reach a resolution agreement or realize that no resolution is possible before trial.
 
Judge
A judge is a magistrate of the Ontario Court of Justice empowered to hear trials or preside over preliminary hearings, bail hearings, and supervise the court process.
 
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A justice is a magistrate of the Superior Court of Justice empowered to hear criminal and civil trials.
 
Justice of the Peace
A Justice of the Peace is a magistrate empowered to preside over bail hearings and set dates in the Ontario Court of Justice, and to hear provincial offence cases in Provincial Offences Court.
 
Peace Bond
A peace bond is a court order where a person promises to abide by conditions. It does not involve an admission of guilt. Rather, one must simply not oppose the imposition of the order because there are reasonable grounds to believe that the complainant feared for their safety or the security of their property at some point in the previous six months.
It is commonly also referred to as an “810” referring to the statutory version of a peace bond. A peace bond is a common resolution negotiated between defence lawyers and the Crown.
Typically a peace bond is entered into in exchange for the withdrawal of criminal charges. The accused person promises to keep the peace and be of good behaviour for the period of the bond, usually 12 months. Other conditions can be attached to the bond as well, including not to have contact with a certain person, not to be in the possession of drugs, not to attend or be near a certain location or virtually anything else that the court might deem appropriate.
The person entering the bond is required to pledge an amount of money that might be forfeited if a term of the bond is breached. A peace bond does not involve a criminal record. Failure to follow the terms of the bond or an accusation thereof is a new criminal offence.
 
Preliminary Inquiry
A preliminary inquiry is a hearing to determine if there is sufficient evidence to commit an accused person to be tried on the charge. The test can be found in the Supreme Court of Canada case R. v. Sheppard. A preliminary inquiry feels like a trial. There is a judge presiding over the hearing. Evidence is lead by the Crown. Sometimes there are disputes with regard to leading questions.
Ultimately, the judge must satisfy himself or herself whether there is any evidence, if it is believed, upon which a properly instructed jury, could convict? If the answer is yes, then the accused is committed on that count. If not, they are discharged and do not have to stand trial on that count. That count is treated as legally extinguished.
 
Pretrial/Resolution Meeting
After counsel has read through the disclosure, discussed it with the client, and then set up a counsel pretrial, or resolution meeting. This is a meeting usually held over the telephone. The Crown attorney and defence counsel will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the case and whether or not a resolution is possible. If it does not appear possible then the Crown and defence will discuss how long a trial would take and whether there are any Charter issues or special motions to be brought prior to the trial. If there are such motions, will they be integrated into the trial or blended with the trial evidence or held separately in a “voir dire”, which is a trial of a constitutional, technical, procedural or evidentiary issue within the trial.
 
Probation
Probation is intended to be a rehabilitative rather than a punitive tool. Many conditions of probation may be imposed such as: drug treatment; refraining from contacting certain person(s); refraining from being within 500m of a certain location, etc. There can also be a condition to report to a probation officer. This allows the probation officer to supervise the probation and compliance with the conditions of probation including attendance at the probation office.
A breach of one or more of the conditions will result in another criminal charge: breach of probation. The probation period is a tool to keep the convicted person on the lawful path.
 
Promise to Appear
When arrested you may be released on a promise to appear, which is a paper which you will be asked to sign stating a date when you are to attend court. Typically there is also a promise to appear at the police station in order to be finger printed. Although people quite often take offence to having their finger prints taken, it is of extreme importance that you attend to have them taken at the appointed time. If you do not attend, you will be charged with failure to appear for prints, for which the Crown quite often seeks a jail sentence.
 
Stay of Proceedings
A stay of proceedings is the stoppage or suspension of the proceedings against the accused without a determination of the merits of the case. The case is stopped before an acquittal or conviction is entered. A stay is typically entered because of procedural unfairness to the accused person. If his or her rights were violated significantly enough to deny him or her the ability to have a fair trial, then a stay of proceedings may be appropriate.
 
Summary Conviction Offence
A summary conviction offence is one which corresponds to the English or American classification of misdemeanor. This is considered to be a less serious offence although it is still criminal in nature. Consequently, potential penalty is less and there is a 6 month limitation period on charging a person after the offence is alleged. There is no preliminary hearing afforded a person charged with a summary conviction offence and trial must be held in the Ontario Court of Justice. The accused will be tried by a judge alone and will not have a jury.
 
Sureties
A surety is a person who will act as a supervisor. Someone who will ensure that the accused person attends court, does not breach his/her conditions of release, and does not commit new offences. A surety is typically asked to pledge a sum of money (known as a bond), that he or she understands will be forfeited, if the duties of a surety are not upheld.
Usually the surety need only demonstrate that he/she has the money and does not have to pay the funds into court. A cash bail can be required. If the accused person then breaches a condition of his/her bail and the surety knows of the breach but does not inform the police or if the surety fails to supervise the accused in terms of court attendances and maintaining his conditions, then the Crown may make application to the court to obtain the money posted for bail. Funds do not automatically default to the Crown if the accused is rearrested for another offence or alleged to have breached a condition of his/her release. The Crown must show that the surety did not properly supervise and did not report, if the surety had knowledge of a breach or contravention of the bail condition or terms.
 
Suspended Sentence
A suspended sentence is a sentence where no further action is taken except for (typically) probation. The penalty is the criminal record entry itself. A suspended sentence is quite often imposed with probation and conditions.
 
Trial
Trial is the final (except for Appeal) step in the life of a criminal offence. The trial is where the Crown attorney calls witnesses who give testimony against the accused. Those witnesses are cross-examined by the defence lawyer. Most evidence is given verbally.
The defence will have the opportunity to call whatever witnesses it chooses, to contradict or establish facts that are helpful to the accused. After hearing the evidence the judge, in the case of a trial by judge, will decide what facts it believes, what law prevails, and as a consequence, what verdict will be rendered.
In the case of a trial by jury, the judge will try issues of law (decide what evidence will be heard, and what laws are applicable) and the jury, after receiving instructions from the judge, will decide the facts of the case and innocence or guilt of the defendant.
 
Withdrawal
This is an ideal result for an accused person. A withdrawal of charges means the Crown has accepted that it has no reasonable prospect for conviction against the accused. The charges are “withdrawn”, meaning they will no longer proceed with the case. This puts an end to the proceedings. There is no criminal record.
 
Young Person
A young person is a person 17 years of age or younger. Young people are treated differently under the criminal law. They are dealt with in a special youth court, with special procedures and rules. These rules are lengthy and designed to protect young offenders from long term consequences of their criminality. As such, there are also separate rules for sentencing, recognizing the diminished moral culpability of teenagers.
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### FAQs
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.14.5" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/faq.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="#e0e0e0" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Legal FAQ
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion admin_label="Accordion" module_class="faq-list" _builder_version="4.9.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_accordion_item title="How much will my case cost?" open="on" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}"]At the very first few meetings, it is always impossible to put a final price on legal services. The reason is that there are far too many unknowns right at the beginning of a case (witnesses, evidence to be called etc). It is common for a lawyer to seek a retainer to cover the initial costs of processing your case.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="What is a retainer?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]A retainer is an amount of money entrusted to a lawyer in anticipation of legal fees owing. It is provided before work is actually performed. The money remains the client’s until the lawyer performs the requisite services and provides a bill.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="How much is the retainer?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Please contact us to discuss your particular situation.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="What is our hourly rate?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Please contact Armoured Suits to confirm our hourly rates.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="What if I cannot afford the retainer?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]For low income individuals, there is a program in Ontario to subsidise legal fees. It is called Legal Aid Ontario. If you think you might qualify contact them at 1-800-668-8258 or www.legalaid.on.ca.
Alternatively, if you do not qualify for Legal Aid or cannot afford the entire retainer all at once, please contact Armoured Suits to see if arrangements can be made.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="Does Armoured Suits accept Legal Aid?" _builder_version="4.9.4" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]At present we are only accepting Legal Aid Certificates for clients whose matters are located in Ottawa or its immediate environs (Alexandria, Brockville, Cornwall, Kemptville, Pembroke, Perth, Renfrew, Smith's Falls and L'Orignal).[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="How long will my case take?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Sadly, it is impossible to predict the likely duration of your case. What can be said with some certainty is that pleading guilty can be achieved more rapidly than a date for trial. Many factors influence the duration of a case. It is not uncommon for a case to take a year or more before a trial is conducted.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="I have been given a Promise to Appear to attend court on a certain date. What’s going to happen on the first appearance?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]First Appearances happen in a scheduling court (known as a remand court). There are many procedural steps that need to happen before an individual can make an informed decision about how to proceed with their case. Usually the first thing that happens on the first appearance is determine whether the accused person is going to be hiring a lawyer. If the lawyer is already retained, he or she will ask the Court if disclosure is available. The matter is then adjourned for a number of weeks so that disclosure can be reviewed and the client can be advised.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="What is disclosure?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Disclosure is now typically provided on a compact disc. It contains all witness statements, police officer investigative actions, records of previous police involvement, criminal records, police officer handwritten notes, or any other relevant piece of evidence. The Crown is required to provide this information to the accused or his or her counsel.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="What other steps are involved in my case?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Typically, there are pre-trial meetings conducted with the Crown (government lawyers) and sometimes with the Crown and a judge. These meetings are intended to canvass positions, flush out settlement possibilities (if any), narrow issues for trial, and estimate the length of trial or pre-trial motions (if any).
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="When will we know exactly how much my case will cost?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Usually after the pre-trial meetings are conducted. That is typically within a month or two of the first appearance in court. Armoured Suits will then be able to advise what applications or pre-trial motions would be pertinent and the timing and costs of the proceeding.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="A lawyer that I called got me out of jail, do I need to use him or her?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]No, but you might consider it. The lawyer who helped you get out of jail might not have been a private lawyer. They may have been acting as duty counsel. However, if your lawyer was a private lawyer, they may be willing or expect to continue acting for you. If you received good service, you should seriously consider continuing with that other lawyer.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="My previous lawyer was a duty counsel lawyer. Should I use him or her?" _builder_version="3.0.47" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Duty counsel do not generally do trials or offer extensive legal services. They are generally available to provide cursory legal advice. Depending on your qualification for Legal Aid, duty counsel might not be able to assist with your case.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title="My case isn’t in Ottawa. Do Armoured Suits travel beyond the City limits?" _builder_version="4.9.4" global_colors_info="{}" open="off"]Armoured Suits regularly accepts cases located in nearby localities (Alexandria, Brockville, Cornwall, Kemptville, Pembroke, Perth, Renfrew, Smith’s Falls, and L’Orignal).  At the moment, we are also taking selected cases in more distant Ontario jurisdictions.
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### If Your Child is in  Trouble with the Law
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WE FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS
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[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built="1" admin_label="Section" fullwidth="off" specialty="off" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="0px|||" background_color="#eeeeee"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial" _builder_version="3.0.50" background_position_1="top_left" background_repeat_1="no-repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" padding_top_1="0px"][et_pb_column type="4_4"][et_pb_video admin_label="Video" _builder_version="3.0.50" src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SampleVideo_360x240_1mb.mp4" module_class="video" /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built="1" admin_label="Section" fullwidth="off" specialty="off" _builder_version="3.0.50"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" background_size="initial"][et_pb_column type="1_2"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.0.50" background_layout="light" text_orientation="left" border_style="solid"]
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Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
 
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Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
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Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium,Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium,
Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
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### Young Offender Information
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="3.16" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="YOUNG OFFENDER INFORMATION" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="3.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Results.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Youth Court Matters
Overview
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]People under the age of eighteen are considered “young people” in criminal law terms. There are distinct differences when the accused person is a young person.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]When a young person is charged with a criminal offence, there are many more procedural safeguards put in place to protect their rights than adults have.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="3.25" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The reason these additional safeguards are needed is due to the higher level of immaturity and unfamiliarity young people have with their rights and how to exercise them.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]PARENTS
The parents of a young person who has been charged are often more disturbed by the charges than the young person themselves. This anxiety is due primarily to a lack of familiarity with the justice system, its consequences, and oftentimes a feeling that they do not understand their children.
This anxiety produces a certain amount of conflict in the parent. On one hand, parents want to protect their children’s rights and minimize any long-term fallout a criminal charge could provide. By contrast, parents believe that since their child has been charged that there must be a reason and that they are probably guilty as a result.
What is important to understand is that simply because a young person has been charged does not necessarily mean that they are guilty. A salient example is this:
Billy goes to a party with his friends. One of Billy’s friends has a friend who has marijuana on his person. People at the party are smoking marijuana. The party is loud and police are called regarding a noise complaint. Once upon the scene, the police enter the party and discover a bag of marijuana on a table in the middle of the room. Billy and the other four people in the room are charged with possession of marijuana.
Is Billy guilty of drug possession? In our example it would be difficult to say that Billy was in possession of marijuana. Yet police often charge everyone involved to prevent any one of them later testifying at another young person’s trial that it was in fact their marijuana, not the person’s who is standing trial.
This example should highlight that simply because a young person is charged with an offence does not equate to guilt.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]SPECIAL LEGISLATION
Parliament, recognizing that young people are less mature or morally developed, has enacted a special companion statute to the Criminal Code of Canada. It is called the Youth Criminal Justice Act. It is intended to set out guiding principles when dealing with young people, especially in regards to sentencing and records management.
One major difference between young people and adults is the reluctance with which jail is used. Young people are deemed to be capable of rehabilitation and incarceration is to be used sparingly.
One major difference between young people and adults is the reluctance with which jail is used. Young people are deemed to be capable of rehabilitation and incarceration is to be used sparingly.
Similarly, a youth criminal record is automatically sealed after a certain period of time without further positive action on the part of the young person or his family.
If you have any questions relating to this or any other youth law matter, do not hesitate to contact Mr. Clarke.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.14.5" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Get Legal Armour[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

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### Youth Criminal Law
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="YOUTH CRIMINAL LAW" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/sentencing-bail.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" global_colors_info="{}"] Overview
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]People under the age of eighteen are considered “young people” in criminal law terms. There are distinct differences when the accused person is a young person.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]When a young person is charged with a criminal offence, there are many more procedural safeguards put in place to protect their rights than adults have.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The reason these additional safeguards are needed is due to the higher level of immaturity and unfamiliarity young people have with their rights and how to exercise them.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_code admin_label="YOUTH CRIMINAL LAW VIDEO" module_class="video" _builder_version="4.19.2" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]PARENTS
The parents of a young person who has been charged are often more disturbed by the charges than the young person themselves. This anxiety is due primarily to a lack of familiarity with the justice system, its consequences, and oftentimes a feeling that they do not understand their children.
This anxiety produces a certain amount of conflict in the parent. On one hand, parents want to protect their children’s rights and minimize any long-term fallout a criminal charge could provide. By contrast, parents believe that since their child has been charged that there must be a reason and that they are probably guilty as a result.
What is important to understand is that simply because a young person has been charged does not necessarily mean that they are guilty. A salient example is this:
Billy goes to a party with his friends. One of Billy’s friends has a friend who has marijuana on his person. People at the party are smoking marijuana. The party is loud and police are called regarding a noise complaint. Once upon the scene, the police enter the party and discover a bag of marijuana on a table in the middle of the room. Billy and the other four people in the room are charged with possession of marijuana.
Is Billy guilty of drug possession? In our example it would be difficult to say that Billy was in possession of marijuana. Yet police often charge everyone involved to prevent any one of them later testifying at another young person’s trial that it was in fact their marijuana, not the person’s who is standing trial.
This example should highlight that simply because a young person is charged with an offence does not equate to guilt.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]SPECIAL LEGISLATION
Parliament, recognizing that young people are less mature or morally developed, has enacted a special companion statute to the Criminal Code of Canada. It is called the Youth Criminal Justice Act. It is intended to set out guiding principles when dealing with young people, especially in regards to sentencing and records management.
One major difference between young people and adults is the reluctance with which jail is used. Young people are deemed to be capable of rehabilitation and incarceration is to be used sparingly.
Similarly, a youth criminal record is automatically sealed after a certain period of time without further positive action on the part of the young person or his family.
If you have any questions relating to this or any other youth law matter, do not hesitate to contact Armoured Suits.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_code admin_label="Common Questions - Youth Justice Act Video" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_code admin_label="Initial Steps After Charges - Video" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="||15px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" 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### Theft
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="THEFT" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-7.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview:
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Theft takes place where someone takes possession of something fraudulently or otherwise “without colour of right” (s. 322(1) Criminal Code of Canada), with the intent in doing so. Someone can also be found guilty of possession of stolen property where, by act or omission, a person takes possession of something which was obtained by the commission of a crime (s. 354(1), Criminal Code).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Where the stolen property is a motor vehicle, someone would be criminally liable where they take possession of a car where the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is partially or fully scratched off, for example. In essence, the crime of theft requires that someone takes possession of something,
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]or takes steps in order to move, or eventually convert the object in a manner which is fraudulent. It must be proven that there was intent to take possession or move the object so that it may transfer possession illegally.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Shoplifting / Theft under $5,000
In reference to Section 334(b) of the Criminal Code of Canada, everyone who commits theft where the value of what is stolen does not exceed $5,000, is guilty of an offence which is punishable on summary conviction.
A very common example of this is where a shoplifter possesses or moves an item from a store, perhaps hiding it in their bag or jacket, and upon detainment is not found to have the money to pay for the item or otherwise no intent to legally obtain the item. This may also take place where a shoplifter moves an item beyond the boundaries where a sale would take place, for example they move it outside of a store without taking legal possession of the object, unless they were given permission to do so.
In most cases, those who commit retail theft or shoplifting will be faced with a variety of sentencing orders, such as probation with a condition to not return to the establishment where the theft occurred, pay a fine, complete a program designed to prevent further theft. There is the possibility for a diversion program if the offense is minor, and thus it is important to seek counsel even when dealing with a minor theft charge because of the ability of a lawyer to highlight any mitigating factors and resolve the charge in the best way possible.
 
Theft over $5,000
Although it is rather rare that someone commits a crime of theft in stealing property which is valued at over $5,000, the most common example is that of embezzlement, stealing from an employer / breach of trust but also many car thefts fall into this category.
Anyone who commits a theft where the value of the property is valued at more than $5,000 will be charged with an indictable offence which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment (s. 334(a), Criminal Code). There are certain cases which may result in an indictable offence with a maximum sentence of 2 years, such as those with special provisions for punishment.
The way this charge will be pursued is contingent on a variety of factors regarding who the offender is, the characteristics of the offence, whether there has been an effort to provide restitution, for example.
Because a theft over $5,000 charge carries with it a potentially very serious outcome, it is very important to consult a criminal lawyer that has experience with this type of charge in order to best analyze factors which may mitigate the potential sentence for this offence.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Motor Vehicle Theft / Possession of Stolen Motor Vehicle
Motor vehicle theft is similar to theft over $5,000 in that it carries with it a similar penalty. Someone who steals a motor vehicle, is guilty of an indictable offence and is liable to a maximum of 10 years imprisonment (s. 331.1(a), Criminal Code); or on summary conviction, to a maximum of 18 months imprisonment (s. 331.1(1)b), Criminal Code). Theft of a motor vehicle or vessel is unique because it does not require a valuation of the vehicle in order to determine the penalty structure. This crime contrasts with joyriding, for example, as someone who steals a motor vehicle does so with the intent of taking either temporary or permanent possession of the vehicle. The resemblance between this and theft over $5,000 provides discretion of arresting officer to choose which charge to lay.
In the case of joyriding which is outlined in section 335 of the Criminal Code of Canada, someone takes a motor vehicle with the intent to drive, use or operate it and ultimately return it to the owner. This crime also applies to those who are occupying but not driving the vehicle, with reason to believe that the driver has taken unlawful possession of the vehicle. There exists an exception where an occupant learns that the driver has taken the vehicle without consent of its owner, and they left or attempted to leave the motor vehicle (s. 335(1.1)(1), Criminal Code). Those who are found guilty under section 335 of the Criminal Code are punishable on summary conviction.
 
Handling your charge
There are a variety of possible defences and mitigating circumstances when facing a charge for a theft-related offence. Although many types of theft carry with them potentially lengthy terms of imprisonment, there are often ways to improve your outlook when resolving your charge. Only an experienced criminal defence lawyer will be able to evaluate factors that might prevent a finding of guilt when dealing directly with Crown prosecution in order to help you make the decision that is right for you. Often it is a good idea to show cooperation or an attempt to make restitution.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
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### Sexual Assault
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/courtroom-defence-lawyer-sexual-assault.jpg" background_position="bottom_center" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Top Sexual Assault Defence Lawyer" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_enable_image="off" background_size="contain" background_position="top_center" custom_padding="|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="SEXUAL ASSAULT OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="rgba(224,43,32,0)" parallax="on" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#ffffff" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="3_5,2_5" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="3_5" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="OVERVIEW OF" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="15px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||15px||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What Are Sexual Assault Offences?
While the offence of sexual assault can include complicated variations, at its core it involves non-consensual touching of a sexual nature such that the “sexual integrity” of the complainant is violated (as per Section 271 of the Criminal Code of Canada).
The test for whether the assault is deemed sexual in nature is objective: whether a reasonable observer would view it as sexual given the totality of the circumstances. Multiple contextual factors will be considered, such as: the part of the body touched, the situation in which it occurred, whether the motive for the contact was gratification, etc). Importantly, the offence of sexual assault does not require the sexual gratification of the accused – it is merely one factor among many that the court will consider.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="15px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_3_text_color="#000000" header_3_font_size="25px" header_3_line_height="1.2em" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="20px||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Punishment
Sentencing for sexual assault can vary depending on the circumstances. However, a simple sexual assault charge can result in a maximum of 10 years in prison. Punishment can be aggravated by the victim’s age at the time of the offence such that if he/she was under the age of 16 years, an accused can face a minimum punishment of one-year imprisonment. Punishment for sexual assault can be more serious (under S. 272) if the person who commits the offence carries, uses or threatens to use a weapon or imitation weapon, threatens to use bodily harm to a third party, causes bodily harm to the complainant, or is a party to the offence with any other person. In these circumstances, the maximum sentence increases to a possible 14 years.
Furthermore, if a firearm is used in the commission of the offence there is a mandatory minimum of 4 years imprisonment and if a firearm is used and the offence is committed in association with organized crime the mandatory minimum can be as high as 7 years (for a second offence). A charge of Aggravated Sexual Assault (S. 273) can be laid if the victim is wounded, maimed, disfigured, or if their life is somehow endangered. A charge of Aggravated Sexual Assault can result in higher mandatory minimums and, in certain egregious circumstances, life imprisonment.
Needless to say, the criminal justice system takes sexual assaults extremely seriously in light of the uniquely negative effects such offences have on victims. Sentencing can be a complicated calculus that an experienced defence counsel can help explain, and protect you against.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="2_5" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_code module_id="request" _builder_version="4.16" custom_margin="||40px||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]Request a Free 30-min Phone ConsultationFill out the form below to find out if you're eligible. Learn more »
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[/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Sexual Assault Defences" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#e2e2e2" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" width="100%" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="|0px||0px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="20px|30px|20px|30px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Sexual Assault Defence - Honest but Mistaken Belief in Consent
Under s.271 of the Criminal Code, sexual assault is a criminal offence. Sexual assault is defined as any form of sexual contact without the consent of both parties, and includes intercourse as well as unwanted touching or fondling.
One complete defence to sexual assault charge is that the accused had a “mistaken belief in consent”. In order to raise this defence, the accused must have a legitimate and reasonable belief that the complainant was consenting at the time of the alleged assault. This defence is a form of “mistake of fact”, resting on the subjective perception of the factual situation.
For any sexual encounter, a person is legally required to take reasonable steps to ensure consent is given. Communication of consent is dynamic and specific to circumstances. As the sexual activity increases in invasiveness or risk, greater care is required in order to ascertain that consent is provided.
In order to raise this defence with a judge or jury, the argument requires an “air of reality”. It is not enough to believe in consent if it is not actually communicated. The accused must be able to explain how and why he/she came to believe that consent was provided. One cannot rely on silence, passivity, or ambiguous conduct, nor on “testing the waters” with touching to gauge the other person’s reaction. In other words, there must be evidence to back up the belief that consent was provided, and to explain any ambiguity.
There are certain situations in which a mistaken belief in consent is not a defence. This can include:
	If drugs/alcohol used which affect thinking; 
	reckless attitude about whether other person is giving consent;
	intentionally ignoring signs that the other person may not be consenting;
	guessing about given consent
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="20px|30px|20px|30px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Sexual Assault Defence - It Never Happened
Although less common than the consent defence, there are certainly occasions where a person accused of a sexual assault maintains that no sexual activity actually took place. The Crown needs to prove that sexual activity took place beyond a reasonable doubt. If they fail to do this, the accused person is acquitted (found not guilty).
The “it never happened” defence strategy requires a focus on contradictions or improbabilities in the complainant’s evidence, as well as often calling the accused person as a witness in their own defence. This is largely a “he said, she said” situation, since it is uncommon for physical evidence (DNA, hair samples, videos) to be present when arguing this incident never took place. This raises the potential that there may not be enough evidence that an assault occurred, other than the testimony of the alleged victim.
Evaluating the quality of a witness’ testimony is the domain of the judge or jury. Whoever is deciding the case will focus on credibility mostly, evaluating everything that a witness says, not only just their version in relation to the alleged assault. A complainant’s evidence, for instance, may not be persuasive, clear or convincing enough to meet the “beyond a reasonable doubt” burden of proof required to achieve a finding of guilt. A lawyer may find inconsistencies (contradictions) in the evidence, or that the evidence is fragmentary. In each instance, it is quite often the defence takes the position that the complainant is not telling the truth.
One thing to avoid is portraying the alleged victim as promiscuous or vengeful. Such an argument or portrayal is unlikely to sit well with a judge or jury. There are also rules regarding the admissibility of certain past sexual conduct which would make it difficult to even reasonably raise such an argument.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact - Call to Action" _builder_version="4.16" text_orientation="center" width="71%" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]With this in mind, defending yourself against a charge of sexual assault is a challenging task. With the help of an experienced defence counsel, however, a proper defence can be marshalled.
Get Legal Armour Against Assault Charges[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_4,1_4,1_4,1_4" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" module_alignment="center" use_custom_width="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_team_member name="Joshua Clarke, B.A.(Hon.), LL.B." position="Criminal Defence Lawyer" image_url="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/joshua-clarke-ottawa-defence-lawyer.jpg" admin_label="Joshua Clarke" _builder_version="4.16" link_option_url="/defence-lawyers/joshua-clarke/" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_team_member][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_team_member name="Kathleen Kealey, B.Soc.Sc., LLB" position="Criminal Defence Lawyer" image_url="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/kathleen-kealey-criminal-defence-lawyer.jpg" admin_label="Kathleen Kealey" _builder_version="4.16" link_option_url="/defence-lawyers/kathleen-kealey/" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_team_member][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Case Studies" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"] R. v. Jacobs – Assault / ChokingOn November 17th, 2024, Ottawa Police located See cases results  R. v. Mohammed – AssaultIn the early hours of December 17th, See cases results  R. v. Anderson – Assault and MischiefLarry and Samantha had been in a See cases results  R. v. Armand – Sexual AssaultThomas is the uncle of the victim See cases results  R. v. Lebeau – AssaultJaques and Amanda were in an on See cases results  R. v. Wan – Assault and MischiefCheng and Min married in China 4 See cases results  R. v. Hartford – AssaultOn February 25th, Karen was at her See cases results  R. v. Lacroise – Careless Driving and AssaultOn the evening of February 8th, Lanark See cases results  R. v. Lamore – AssaultOn February 3rd, 2025, in the city See cases results  R. v. Hamilton – AssaultOn January 20th, 2024, in the Township See cases results  R. v. Baker – AssaultOn April 29th, 2023, at the Dover See cases results  R. v. Barton – AssaultOn December 18, 2024, Liam* was assaulted See cases results  R. v. Sharpton – AssaultIn the early hours of January 18, See cases results  R. v. Mendez – Domestic AssaultShortly after 1am on July 14th, military See cases results  R. v. Johnson – AssaultLate in the evening of July 31st, See cases results  R. v. Johnson – Sexual Assault, HarassmentOn April 29th, OPP received a call See cases results  R. v. Sanchez – Domestic AssaultFrancisco and Elena had been in a See cases results  R. v. Wang – Mischief, Assault, Forcible ConfinementSam and Malia were married, with a See cases results  R. v. Murphy – Assault with a Weapon, Attempt to Obstruct JusticeIn August 2021, a massive group of See cases results  R. v. Aarons – Sexual Assault, Criminal HarassmentDavid and Sarah were in a relationship See cases results  R. v. StevensonOn the afternoon of February 25th, Larry See cases results  R. v. Lamarche – Quebec Sexual AssaultGeoff and Leslie had been in a See cases results  R. v. Morris – Domestic assault, mischiefJenna had been in a long term See cases results  R. v. Brooke – Sexual Assault, Sexual InterferenceIn 2002, while still a youth, Shane See cases results  R. v. Wilson – Criminal Harassment, Assault, Mischief under $5,000Cassie was in an on-again off-again relationship See cases results  R. v. Selim – Assault, Utter threat to Cause DeathEhud and Karen have been in a See cases results  R. v. Shirley – AssaultSarah and Nick were home on a See cases results  R. v. Parson – AssaultAlice and Dan were in a common See cases results  R. v. Smith – AssaultChuck and the victim, Aaron, had been See cases results  R. v. Walsh – Sexual Assault et alIn January 2021, Gary was residing with See cases results  R. v. Merrick – AssaultChristine and Barry have been married for See cases results  R. v. Lornas – Sexual AssaultDerek and Sharon have a young daughter See cases results  R. v. NortonThe complainant, Ashley, had recently moved to See cases results  R. v. LawrenceBrian was in a relationship with Shannon. See cases results  R. v. DarrensKevin was in the midst of a See cases results  R. v. AleshMohammed was in his home, drinking with See cases results  Historical Indecent Assault Charge – R. v. SmithSexual Assault Facts: Frank is a 69 See cases results  Assault – R. v. McLeanAssault Facts: In December 2016, after an See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. HickeyDomestic Mischief Facts: Joey and Pamela were See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. BentovolioDomestic Assault Facts: Mark and his girlfriend See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. BrightonDomestic Assault Facts: Alfred and Janice have See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. JamesDomestic Mischief Facts: Mary and Dan were See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. MustafaClient Acquitted for Domestic Assault Charges Ali See cases results  Criminal Harassment – R. v. MorrettiLuciano was a Canadian Forces member having See cases results  Sexual Assault – R. v. MatthewsSexual Assault: Tim, a 15 year old, See cases results PreviousNext[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Robbery
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="ROBBERY" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/burgular-robbery-trial-lawyer-short.jpg" parallax="on" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]When theft is carried out with violence or threats of violence, the resultant charge is robbery as per Section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Such violence can occur during the course of the theft or immediately before or after. An assault coupled with the mere intent to steal also qualifies as robbery as defined by the Criminal Code of Canada.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Additionally, anyone who steals from any person while armed with a weapon or imitation weapon is deemed to have committed this offence. Importantly, the violence or assault does not have to be in furtherance of the theft itself – it only has to immediately precede or follow it.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Punishment
The penalty if you are convicted of robbery can be severe. The maximum punishment is life in prison. There are also a number of mandatory minimums codified in the criminal code depending on whether this is your first offence and/or if a firearm was used. By consulting with a criminal defence lawyer, you can properly analyze your charges and determine the likely sentence and the extent of the punishment you are facing.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences
In general, if you can raise a doubt as to whether the theft or attempted theft was accompanied by violence or an assault, the offence of robbery will not be made out. For instance, in a ‘purse snatching’ scenario – where the purse was grabbed before the victim could resist and there was no additional contact – the offence will not be made out. Other, more fact-specific defences may be available to you. A competent lawyer can analyze your particular facts and advise you of your options. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have been charged with this or another criminal offence.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Get Legal armour
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Pornography Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="PORNOGRAPHY OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Pornography-Offences-lawyer.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Obscene materials overview
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Canadian criminal law possesses a very comprehensive legislative framework for evaluating obscenity, in part due to post-Charter case law which challenged the laws on constitutional grounds. Pornography offences are the possession, production or distribution of obscene sexual materials as defined by the Criminal Code of Canada. Canadian obscenity and pornography laws may prohibit anyone who intentionally searches for, or possesses, illegal pornography such as bestiality and child pornography.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]For a pornographic picture, video or any other material to be illegal, it must be deemed to be obscene. Section 163(8) of the Criminal Code defines an obscene material as any publication which is characteristic of “the undue exploitation of sex,” and one or more of “crime, horror, cruelty and violence.” Section 163 regulates pornographic material which features two or more consenting adults, despite not explicitly using the term “pornography.”
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]In order to assess whether there is undue exploitation, the court will use the community standards test, which the Supreme Court of Canada in R. v. Butler [1992] explained as the standard of subject matter that they would not tolerate other Canadians being exposed to.
The community standards test is flexible in nature in that it adapts to what is considered to be acceptable, as well as providing leeway to publications which are not widely accessible by the public, and is therefore stricter towards platforms such as television which are more accessible by the general public.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Child pornography
Section 163.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada defines child pornography as a photograph, film or video that “shows a person who is or is depicted as being under the age of eighteen years and is engaged or is depicted as engaged in explicit sexual activity,” or where the dominant characteristic of the material is “for a sexual purpose, of a sexual organ or the anal region of a person under the age of eighteen years.” The same, dominant characteristic principle applies to written material, audio recordings that advocate sexual activity with a person who is under eighteen years of age, or any material that serves a sexual purpose in describing sexual activity with an underage person.
Child pornography offences occur under four main categories: making child pornography, distribution of child pornography, possession of child pornography and accessing child pornography. The category of offences for child pornography are comparable to laws relating to illegal drugs, in that both are inherently illegal to possess and are followed with a similar set of escalating factors which apply to those producing or making this illegal material available to others, and will consider it an aggravating factor where the person committed the offence with the intention of making a profit (Criminal Code, s. 163(1), ss. 4(3). Possession and accessing child pornography offences require that the accused either knew that they were in possession of, or were willfully blind as to the subject matter of the materials. If the accused is charged under subsection (2), for making child pornography, then they must prove that they took “all reasonable steps to ascertain the age of that person,” in addition to ensuring that they did not depict that person as being underage (Criminal Code, s. 163(1)(5)).
Recent legislation in Canada known as the Child Pornography Reporting Act has imposed a duty upon any person who comes across child pornography in any form, to report it to authorities. The duty to report under section 3 of the Act, requires that an informant promptly report any information whether or not it is considered to be “confidential or privileged,” so long as they are not falsely reporting or doing so with malicious intent (Child Pornography Reporting Act, 2008, c. 35, s. 3). Anyone who does not report child pornography is guilty of a summary offence and is liable to a fine of not more than two thousand dollars and to imprisonment for a maximum of six months (Child Pornography Reporting Act, 2008, c. 35, s. 7(1).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]VoyeurismVoyeurism is the visual recording of any person who is in “circumstances that give rise to a reasonable expectation of privacy,” if the person is in a place where they can “reasonably be expected to be nude, to expose his or her genital organs or anal region or her breasts, or to be engaged in explicit sexual activity” (Criminal Code, s. 162, ss. 1). It is an offence to possess any illegal visual recording for the purpose of sharing or otherwise making it available to others, such as publishing it or circulating it on the internet. PenaltyObscenity offences under section 163 of the Criminal Code of Canada are hybrid in nature. Where the Crown elects to proceed by indictment, the accused faces a maximum of two years imprisonment. The sentence directly relates to the degree of harm to society that prosecution can prove. Voyeurism or possessing for the purpose of sharing illegal visual recordings is also a hybrid offence which carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment if the Crown proceeds by indictment.Each of the categories of child pornography offences are considered to be hybrid offences. Therefore, prosecution can elect to proceed either by indictment or summarily. In addition, each category is accompanied by a mandatory minimum sentence which corresponds to the seriousness of the offence (Criminal Code, s. 163(1), ss.2-4). Mandatory minimum sentences range between three and six months, depending on the offence, with maximum penalties ranging from 18 months up to ten years. Handling your chargeSentencing for pornography offences is highly nuanced. By far the most serious offence is making child pornography, and that is reflected in the sentences imposed. Moreover, the stigma attached to a conviction for child pornography can be equally as damaging. Anyone facing a charge of this severity, especially one which imposes a mandatory minimum sentence should seek experienced counsel and consider the possibility of going to trial.In addition to the custodial sentence, a person charged with these offences could face mandatory sex offender registration and prohibitions on attending various places where young people are ordinarily found.Sentences become more severe depending upon the quantity and quality (depth of depravity) of images and videos discovered and how many of these are original images.Finally, check out our related article: Frequently Asked Questions About Porn Laws in Ontario. 
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### Murder /  Manslaughter
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="MURDER / MANSLAUGHTER" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-8.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Murder/Manslaughter Overview
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Murder is defined within the Criminal Code of Canada (section 231(1) as either first degree or second degree murder. Any intentional killing of another that is planned and deliberate will constitute first degree murder.
First degree murder can also be extended to encapsulate circumstances: where a murder takes place as a result of an arrangement for an exchange of money or anything of value, where the victim is an agent of the government relating to the criminal justice system (police officer, jailer or prison worker), if the murder stems from any sexual assault offence, relates to a criminal organization or terrorism, forcible confinement or criminal harassment, among others (Criminal Code, s. 231, ss. 4-6).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Any murder which does not meet the requirement of being planned and deliberate, as well as the categories mentioned above and in section 231 of the Criminal Code of Canada, will be tried as second degree murder. Murder can be reduced to manslaughter where the accused committed the offence “in the heat of passion caused by sudden provocation” where they acted suddenly without sufficient time for their “passion to cool off” (Criminal Code, s. 232, ss. 1-2).
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Causation of death
For a crime to be considered culpable homicide, there  must be a causal relationship between the harm done and the death of the victim. There are circumstances where the death of a victim should have been prevented despite original injuries sustained as a result of physical violence or negligence by the accused, which may result in a successful defence against murder charges (or for the accused to be acquitted / the charge downgraded). Problems that may arise and question the cause of death include: the length of time that it took for the victim to die, whether or not the victim died from complications of medical treatment, if there were any intervening events that took place such as poor treatment or no medical treatment, and whether the accused’s violence simply worsened a previously existing medical condition of the victim.
In Canadian common law there exists a test for  blameworthiness which often refers to R. v. Nette (SCC, 2001), which affirmed different degrees of causation of culpable homicide. The accused was charged with first degree murder when he broke into a 95 year old woman’s home, tied her hands and feet with wire, wrapped clothing around her head and stole her money. The victim then fell off her bed, her dentures came loose and the clothing around her head became tightly wound around her neck, she later died as of asphyxiation (24-48 hours after the accused left) (R. v. Nette, SCC, 2001). The court considered the extent the accused caused the death, differing between first degree murder which requires “substantial and integral cause of death,” relating to the enhanced blameworthiness regarding the offence. The court acknowledged that second degree murder and manslaughter charges required a lesser degree of blameworthiness (referred to as a “significant contributing cause,” which is more than a trivial or insignificant cause (R. v. Nette, SCC, 2001)). In this particular case, the  first degree murder charge was downgraded to second degree murder due to the reduction in blameworthiness.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Manslaughter
Manslaughter is any culpable homicide which is not considered murder or infanticide. An example of manslaughter is where someone commits an unlawful act that causes the death of another person. In R. v. Creighton (S.C.C., 1993), the accused was found guilty of manslaughter because the victim’s death was a direct consequence of an unlawful act, which in this case was injecting a large quantity of cocaine (albeit with the deceased’s consent) into the forearm of the victim. The actus reus for manslaughter or penal negligence uses the marked departure standard, which requires that the negligence constituted a marked departure from the standards of a reasonable person, which may “consist in carrying out the activity in a dangerous fashion, or in embarking on the activity when in all the circumstances it is dangerous to do so” (R. v. Creighton, S.C.C., 1993). The court held that manslaughter “falls into the class of offences where a mental element in relation to the consequence must be established,” (R. v. Creighton, S.C.C., 1993) and held unanimously that at the very least objective foresight is required to establish mens rea (a guilty mind). In this particular example, a reasonable person would have foreseen the risk of bodily harm.
Culpable homicide can be reduced to manslaughter if “the person who committed it did so in the heat of passion caused by sudden provocation” (Criminal Code, s. 232(1). This partial defence relies on a question of fact which considers whether a “particular wrongful act or insult amounted to provocation,” and “whether the accused was deprived of the power of self-control by the provocation that he alleges he received” (Criminal Code, s. 232, ss. 3). Successfully arguing provocation does not remove all liability from the accused, as it will result in a conviction of manslaughter, not an acquittal. An example of a successful provocation defence for murder is the landmark R. v. Parent (S.C.C., 2001) case. The accused’s estranged wife had commenced divorce proceedings against him, and they were involved in litigation over division of assets, including his shares in a corporation. Parent’s shares had been seized, and put up for sale, and at the auction his wife allegedly stated “I told you I would wipe you out completely,” which caused the accused to feel a hot flush rising, and he subsequently shot and killed her (R. v. Parent, S.C.C., 2001). Although the case was controversial in its result, the Supreme Court of Canada affirmed the trial judge’s findings that intense anger could help establish a defence of provocation.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Defences" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences
It should be noted that Canadian common law does not typically consider defences of proportionality or necessity when it comes to human lives and murder. In order to successfully argue necessity for a murder charge, “the accused must, at the time of the act, honestly believe, on reasonable grounds, that he faces a situation of imminent peril that leaves no reasonable legal alternative open” (R. v. Latimer, SCC, 2001). Additionally, there must be a “reasonable basis for the accused’s beliefs and actions,” however there may be “circumstances that legitimately affect the accused person’s ability to evaluate his situation” such as in the case of battered woman’s syndrome. A defence for necessity is restricted to establishing involuntariness, that the accused was forced to act in a certain way, and whether a reasonable human being would do it.
The Criminal Code of Canada’s self-defence section was recently revised in order to provide a more comprehensive definition of self-defence and codify a list of factors to be considered when evaluating a claim of this nature. Section 34 of the Code states that a person is not guilty of an offence if they believe on reasonable grounds that force (or a threat of force) is being used against them, that in defending themselves they are acting purely in order to defend themselves or another person from the use of force, and that they are reasonably defending themselves given the circumstances of the violence (or threat) being used against them (Criminal Code, s. 34(1). A court shall consider a list of factors, including, but not limited to:
 	the nature of the force or threat;
 	the extent to which the use of force was imminent and whether there were other means available to respond to the potential use of force;
 	the person’s role in the incident;
 	whether any party to the incident used or threatened to use a weapon;
 	the size, age, gender and physical capabilities of the parties to the incident;
 	the nature, duration and history of any relationship between the parties to the incident, including any prior use or threat of force and the nature of that force or threat;
f1. any history or interaction or communication between the parties to the incident;
 	the nature and proportionality of the person’s response to the use or threat of force; and
 	whether the act was committed was in response to a use or threat of force that the person knew was lawful.”
(Criminal Code of Canada, s. 34(2).
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Sentencing & Parole" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Sentencing & Parole
Those convicted of murder – either first or second degree, must be sentenced to imprisonment for life. For an adult who has been convicted of first degree murder, generally they will not be eligible for parole until they have served at least twenty-five years. For an adult who has been convicted of second degree murder, they will need to serve between ten and twenty-five years, as determined by the courts (Criminal Code, s. 235). As a result of capital punishment being abolished, section 745.6 of the Criminal Code was introduced, also known as the “faint-hope clause.” This clause provides those who have been convicted of murder an opportunity to apply for a reduction in the number of years they must serve in order to apply for parole, and can only be made after fifteen years have been served.
Although manslaughter is an offence which is considered to be a downgraded version of murder, it still carries with it considerable social stigma and penalty. Everyone who is convicted of manslaughter is guilty of an indictable offence and is liable to imprisonment for life, and where a firearm is used a minimum punishment of four years imprisonment (Criminal Code, s. 236). Sentencing for manslaughter can be very difficult and the punishment will be reflected by the facts of the case, therefore it is very hard to speculate on the existence of a benchmark for sentencing.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.0.87" border_style="solid" global_module="2914" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Us
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#f4f4f4" custom_margin="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#FFFFFF" custom_margin="60px||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"]December 19, 2025  Got Arrested? A Complete Guide to ProtectingJune 16, 2025  Understanding Warrants: What You Need to KnowApril 30, 2025  You’ve Been Served! What You Need toMarch 11, 2025  Stunt Driving Lawyer in Ottawa: Professional LegalSeptember 26, 2024  Armoured Suits’ Joshua Clarke Secures Major Victory[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Impaired Driving
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="IMPAIRED DRIVING" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-11.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]An impaired driving, or DUI charge can have a profound impact on the person charged. The consequences of being found guilty include criminal record, loss of driving privileges, increased insurance premiums, not to mention embarrassment and possible career and travel implications.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#eeeeee" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px|||" custom_padding="0px|90px||90px" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBcdmo9nAIk" admin_label="Impaired Driving Video" module_class="video" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Terminology
Drinking and driving, “DUI,” over 80, impaired driving, refuse to provide breath sample, impaired care and control are all related terms referring to the same phenomenon: an individual has consumed alcohol in such a quantity as to make driving or being able to possibly drive a criminal offence. In Canada, “Driving under the Influence (DUI)” and “drinking and driving” are not the proper terms in the Criminal Code. The correct way to refer to these concepts is “impaired driving” and “over 80” which are separate offences in law.
 
The current social evil
An individual charged with some form of impaired driving might question why the police officer decided to pursue charges and not just let the person off with a warning. The reason they do not do so anymore is due to the fact that politicians, vocal interest groups (such as MADD), and society at large have come to believe that impaired driving (and more specifically the fallout from it – such as death or injury) is a social evil to be eradicated. Eradication cannot happen if laws that exist for prevention are not enforced. Uniformity of enforcement and zero tolerance are the latest mantras employed by various levels of police. It is simply unacceptable to be driving while your ability to do so is impaired by alcohol (or a drug) or to be in a position where driving is a realistic possibility while in such a condition.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Different types of charges
Impaired driving has to do with a witness (either civilian or police officer) observing indicia of impairment (poor driving, blood shot or glassy eyes, inability to walk or stand properly, odour of alcohol on the breath, slurring speech). The over 80 offence has to do with a technical evaluation of the actual quantity of alcohol in a person’s blood (as usually measured by their elimination of alcohol on their breath). It refers to an alcohol concentration in a person’s blood in excess of 80mg per 100ml of blood. For a basic impaired case, the accused will be charged with both but can only be properly convicted of one. The reason both are used is to prevent the accused from avoiding conviction by virtue of “technicalities.” The accused person must beat both counts if they are to avoid a criminal record.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Te7Ds6fouk" admin_label="Critical Considerations Video" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_video][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]Related charges
In addition to impaired driving and over 80, there are a number of other offences which can often also be laid by police in these types of cases. “Refuse to provide breath sample” is fairly self-explanatory. The accused was obligated to provide a sample of their breath for analysis and they refuse. In law, a refusal attracts virtually the same consequences as providing a sample and it being over the allowable amount. “Care and control” is a related concept except that in these cases, the vehicle is not yet in motion. The driver is in a position to drive and is impaired.
 
Penalty for a finding of guilt – mandatory criminal record
Being found guilty of any of these offences (impaired OR over 80 OR refusal OR care and control) carries a minimum sentence as mandated by Parliament in the Criminal Code. The minimum sentence is a $1,000 fine for a first offence and 30 days imprisonment for a second offence and 120 days imprisonment for a third offence. This sentence will give the person a criminal record. There is no longer any discretion vested in the Crown or the judge to impose any less severe sentence. It is mandatory. Of course, it is always possible that the sentence could be higher than these minimums.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTLsOAwjIPU" admin_label="Impaired driving sentences - video" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_video][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"] 
Additional penalties
In addition to the fine or jail time, the licensing consequences of a finding of guilt can be more extreme and punitive for the individual. The minimum licence suspension for a first offence is 12 months. For a second offence it is two years. For a subsequent offence, the suspension can be for not less than three years. Again, these periods are minimums. The ranges can be higher depending on the circumstances of the offence.
 
Still more consequences
In addition to these requirements, the person found guilty of these offences can expect to be required to take a remedial driving instruction course to be completed before re-instatement of a driver’s licence. In Ontario, it is called “Back on Track”. See mto.on.gov.ca for more information. Additionally, the cost of insurance will undoubtedly increase because the impaired driver is now viewed as a higher risk to make a claim or be claimed against. Clearly, the consequences of a finding of guilt can be dramatic. The offender can also expect difficulties in obtaining employment or career advancement due to their criminal record. Further, they may also experience difficulty in travelling abroad, especially to the United States of America. See my article “Travelling with a Criminal Record” found here.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Impaired Driving Defences
There are many possible defences to impaired driving in all its forms. These apply with variations depending on whether impairment is alleged to be by alcohol or by drug. 
The two main categories of defences are Standard and Charter. Each case is different and it would be rare to present each of these defences in the same case. What follows are a list of the types of defences that have successfully resulted in the accused being found not guilty.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Standard Defences" module_id="standard" _builder_version="4.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Standard DUI Defences
Defences that are considered “standard” are:
that the person charged was not the driver of the vehicle at the relevant time (either because someone else reasonably could have been the driver or the Crown can’t prove that it was the accused who was driving)
that the person charged had no other choice but to drive to preserve life or other emergency
that the person was not impaired at the time of driving
that the breathalyzer(s) were not functioning correctly
that the accused did not understand the demand
that the accused did not willfully fail to provide a sample
that the vehicle was physically incapable of moving
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Charter Defences" module_id="charter" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Charter Defences
By Charter, it is meant the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, a part of the Canadian Constitution.
Charter defences involve alleged some type of mistake or misconduct on behalf of the police involved in the accused’s case. 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Charter Defences continued" module_id="standard" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences that have succeeded in the past include:
that the demand to provide breath sample wasn’t made as soon as it could have been
that the police were not legally allowed to require a detained person to provide a breath sample
that the police didn’t inform the detained person of their rights
that the police didn’t inform the detained person of their rights fast enough
that the police interfered with the accused’s implementation of their rights
Obviously, there are more variations than what has been listed here and whether it makes sense to rely on a particular defence ought to be discussed with your defence lawyer.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits right now!
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]FAQs about DUIs[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Fraud
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="FRAUD" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/FRAUD-1.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview of Fraud
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Fraud is an offence which is comparable to theft; however it requires an element of deceit or a false representation such as attempting to defraud the public, or any person, of their property, money, or any valuable service (Criminal Code of Canada, s. 380(1)).
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The varying levels within the category of fraud offences are similar to that of theft, in that the severity is determined by the value out of what the victim (or potential victim(s)) are being defrauded.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Thus, fraud can be divided into two different levels: fraud where the value exceeds five thousand dollars and is typically considered an indictable offence, or fraud where the subject matter is less than five thousand dollars and is punishable on summary conviction (Criminal Code of Canada, s. 380(a), (b)). Within both categories, aggravating circumstances include whether or not the public is being targeted, and the magnitude of harm.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}" column_structure="1_2,1_2"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Fraud under $5,000
A fraud under five thousand dollars offence is typically of a lower scale and can range in sophistication. Fraud under five thousand dollars usually proceeds under summary conviction (Criminal Code, s. 380(b)(ii)) and dependent on the circumstances of the offence, may or may not carry with it a sentence which includes imprisonment. Fraud can take place where a shop owner misrepresents a product to one of their customers by overstating its value or deceiving them as to its purpose. Consider a landscaping company that is contracted to build a deck, and instead of using new lumber uses old or previously used supplies in order to save money and thus defraud their client. Aside from the potential tax implications which may have taken place, the misrepresentation of value of the goods or services could constitute fraud.
Many of those charged with low level fraud are first time offenders who likely operate legitimate businesses, and because of this may have a lot to lose if their charge is not handled properly. Seeking proper counsel is imperative in this situation in order to achieve the best result possible and to control the damage it may cause to your future. For those who have had prior interactions with the legal system for theft or fraud, imprisonment may be contemplated by the Crown. Therefore it is very important to obtain counsel.
 
Handling the charge
Being convicted of fraud (whether over or under $5,000) could be damaging both in terms of reputation and incarceration. A strategically sound course of action when dealing with a fraud charge could mean the difference between a sentence of imprisonment or something much less severe. In most cases, the accused’s intentions at the relevant time will be central to whether a defence exists; however it is dependent on the circumstances and variety of potentially aggravating factors.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Fraud over $5,000
Fraud over five thousand dollars, although perhaps not as common as its less serious “under $5,000” counterpart, nonetheless does commonly take place in a variety of different ways. Fraud over five thousand dollars carries with it a maximum penalty of fourteen years imprisonment, and beneath that the likely sentence is escalated by the value of what is being defrauded, among other factors (Criminal Code, s. 380.1). Although a fraud offence where the value of the property or services is considered to exceed five thousand dollars carries with it a considerably lengthy maximum sentence, the prosecution may move to proceed under summary conviction.
Aggravating and non-mitigating factors for sentencing those indicted on fraud charged are set out in section 380.1 of the Criminal Code:
 	the magnitude, complexity, duration and degree of planning;
 	whether the offence affected the Canadian economy or the financial market;
 	it affected a large number of victims (and also given the victims circumstances e.g. their age, health and financial situation);
 	the offender exploited their high regard or reputation within the community;
 	they did not comply with regulations or professional standards
 	the offender concealed or destroyed records related to the fraud or to the disbursement of the proceeds of the offence
(Criminal Code of Canada s. 380.1, ss (a-f))
It should be noted that the court shall not consider as a mitigating circumstance that the offender was exceptional at their job, or their status or reputation in the community if the aforementioned factors played a part in the fraud (Criminal Code, s. 380.1(2)). Conditional sentencing is a possibility with fraud over five thousand charges, however where the aforementioned aggravating factors begin to mount, imprisonment may be the likely outcome as prosecution will likely seek a more punitive sentence. It is very important to have an experienced defence lawyer at your side to work with you to achieve the best outcome possible.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
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### Firearm Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="FIREARM OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/gun-firearm-charges-best-crim-lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Legality of firearms in Canada
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Possessing a firearm in Canada is a heavily regulated activity, with the regulations primarily set out in the Firearms Act (1995) in addition to the Criminal Code of Canada. The legality of firearms in Canada has been a hot topic throughout the last couple of decades as the updated list of prohibited firearms was set out in the Firearms Act, and even more so in 2002 when the gun registry was established. The Criminal Code defines a prohibited firearm as a handgun with a barrel that is less than 105mm in length, or is designed to utilize .25 or .32 caliber ammunition.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Any firearm which is a rifle or a shotgun that is less than 660mm in length or has a barrel that is less than 457mm in length is also prohibited, as well as any automatic firearm that has not been “altered to discharge only one projectile with one pressure of the trigger” (Criminal Code, s. 84(1)). As per the Firearms Act, unless you are a police officer or fall under any other exempt category, you may only possess a prohibited firearm if the firearm was registered at the time it became prohibited under the act, subject to other exceptions known as “grandfathering.”
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Someone who does not report losing a firearm, or finding a firearm that does not belong to them to a peace officer may be charged under section 105 of the Criminal Code. Transporting firearms requires authorization from the Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) of the province the firearm is located in. Failure to comply with the regulations set out in the Firearms Act in addition to using the firearm in an illegal manner may result in criminal charges, some of which are outlined below.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Unauthorized possession
Illegal firearms possession is the most common firearms related criminal charge, and is categorized as a hybrid offence with the potential to be pursued either as an indictable offence or summarily. Under section 91(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada, it is illegal to possess a firearm without having a license, and if the firearm is considered to be restricted, the license must be accompanied by a registration certificate. An exception to unauthorized possession exists where a person possesses a firearm under the direct supervision of the lawful owner and operator of the firearm. However, it is an indictable offence to possess a firearm knowing that the person is not a holder of a license for the firearm and a registration certification where it is necessary (Criminal Code, s. 92). A summary disposition for unauthorized possession can range anywhere from a suspended sentence, a fine or probation to a maximum of six months in prison. The maximum penalty for the indictable variation of unauthorized possession is five years imprisonment.
 
Trafficking
As a result of the public safety risk associated with firearms, and the heavy regulations outlining proper storage, possession and travelling procedures for example, it is of no surprise that illegally trafficking firearms is a serious criminal offence. Anyone who transfers possession of a firearm, any sort of weapon or ammunition to someone who is not authorized to do so under the Firearms Act (or any other facet of law) is guilty of an indictable offence and is liable to a maximum of ten years imprisonment with a mandatory minimum of three years for the first offence (Criminal Code, s. 99, ss. 1-2). It is irrelevant whether or not any money or other consideration was exchanged between the parties, rather it is the act of illegally trafficking the weapon or ammunition that induces criminal liability.
Resources: Firearms Act (S.C. 1995, c. 39) http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/f-11.6/
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Illegal use of firearm offences
The use of a firearm in the commission of a criminal offence such as robbery or sexual assault is considered to be an aggravating factor (or merit a much more serious criminal penalty). However, using a firearm during the commission of an offence is a standalone charge and is codified within the Criminal Code under section 85. Section 85 applies to any person that uses a firearm, whether or not it results in bodily harm (or is intended to cause bodily harm), while committing an indictable offence (Criminal Code, s. 85(1)). Using a firearm in commission of an offence can also be attached to someone who uses a firearm in attempting to commit an indictable offence or “during flight after committing or attempting to commit an indictable offence” (Criminal Code, s. 85(1)). Section 85 also includes the use of an imitation firearm, which is defined within the Criminal Code as anything that imitates a firearm, including replica firearms. It should be noted that the punishment for using a firearm or an imitation firearm in the commission of an offence fall within the same framework with a maximum of fourteen years imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence. There are exceptions to where section 85 may not apply, such as armed robbery, where the accused is already being charged as a result of the firearm being used.
The use of firearms is an extremely regulated activity because of the need to protect the safety of the public, and thus there are consequences to those who do not obey laws governing the use or even possession of a legally owned firearm. Section 86 of the Criminal Code requires that everyone exercise care and take all reasonable precautions for the safety of others when they use, handle, ship, transport or store their firearms and ammunition. Anyone who does not follow regulations found under the Firearms Act regarding firearm possession and use is guilty of either an indictable or summary offence and is liable to a maximum of two years imprisonment (Criminal Code, s. 86(3)). Other more common illegal use of firearm offence include: pointing a firearm (Criminal Code, s. 87), possession of weapon for dangerous purpose (s. 88) and carrying a concealed weapon (s. 90). It should be noted that each of the aforementioned offences are hybrid in nature and the disposition will be determined by the perceived risk to the public or whether the accused’s actions posed a potential threat to another person.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Can Help
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Case Studies" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"] R. v. Levant – Careless Use of FirearmLate on February 12th, OPP were contacted See cases results  R. v. Anderson – Break and Enter, MischiefOn March 24th, Lanark County OPP were See cases results  R. v. Anderson – Assault and MischiefLarry and Samantha had been in a See cases results  R. v. Wan – Assault and MischiefCheng and Min married in China 4 See cases results  R. v. Lamore – AssaultOn February 3rd, 2025, in the city See cases results  R. v. Baker – AssaultOn April 29th, 2023, at the Dover See cases results  R. v. Wang – Mischief, Assault, Forcible ConfinementSam and Malia were married, with a See cases results  R. v. Morris – Domestic assault, mischiefJenna had been in a long term See cases results  R. v. Wilson – Criminal Harassment, Assault, Mischief under $5,000Cassie was in an on-again off-again relationship See cases results  R. v. HarrisonCharlie and Susan were in a relationship See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. HickeyDomestic Mischief Facts: Joey and Pamela were See cases results  Uttering Threats, Criminal Harrassment, Possession of a Weapon – R. v. RigourUttering Threats, Criminal Harassment, Possession of Weapon See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. JamesDomestic Mischief Facts: Mary and Dan were See cases results  Firearms Offence – R. v. MortimerBilly was being driven around by his See cases results  Robbery – R. v. MasonRobbery: Brian, a 15 year old, had See cases results PreviousNext[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Drug Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="DRUG OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/drug-charges-best-lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Overview" _builder_version="4.25.2" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview
Defending drug offences can be very complicated because the case usually relies heavily on police witnesses, search warrants, and defences often rely on making legal arguments relying on the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.16" width="94%" width_tablet="80%" width_phone="80%" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="94%" max_width_tablet="80%" max_width_phone="80%" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Drug Offences
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-for-purpose-of-trafficking/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession of Scheduled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="20" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sureties-lawyer-kids-ottawa.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="||4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Possession of Scheduled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking
[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/possession-of-scheduled-substance/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Possession of scheduled substance" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-0.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="||4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Possession of scheduled substance
[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/trafficking/" button_text="continue reading..." admin_label="Trafficking" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="22" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.46)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/writing-1149962_1920.jpg" background_blend="multiply" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="||4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Trafficking
[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/drug-production/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Production" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="20" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-0.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="||4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Production
[/et_pb_cta][et_pb_cta button_url="/defence/drug-offences/importing-exporting-drugs/" button_text="Learn more" admin_label="Importing" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto|||on|" header_font_size="20" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/sureties-lawyer-kids-ottawa.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Importing & Exporting
 
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|40px||40px" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Types of Defences
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]There are a number of defences to drug offences, but they are often complicated and technical 
Defences we have successfully pursued include:
police didn’t get the right person
the person did not have knowledge of the drug
the person did not have control over the location where the drug was found
the drug found is not real
there was no agreement to traffic
there was no agreement to participate in joint venture
there was no aiding or abetting the offence
it was someone else’s drugs
the police violated the accused’s rights
It would be uncommon to raise each of these defences in a single case, and whether to raise the defence is a case-specific decision.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/contact/" button_text="Contact Us" button_alignment="center" admin_label="Contact Us button" _builder_version="4.16" custom_button="on" button_text_size="18" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#cc0000" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" button_border_radius_hover="20" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" button_bg_color_hover="#e20700" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="20" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on" button_bg_color__hover="#e20700" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][/et_pb_button][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" disabled_on="on|on|off" _builder_version="4.16" height="100px" hide_on_mobile="on" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BGM7-WMa3gU" admin_label="Drug Offences Video" _builder_version="4.25.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Drugs & Illegal Substances
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" module_class=" et_pb_row_fullwidth" _builder_version="4.16" width="100%" width_tablet="100%" width_phone="100%" width_last_edited="on|desktop" max_width="100%" max_width_tablet="100%" max_width_phone="100%" max_width_last_edited="on|desktop" make_fullwidth="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta button_url="#marijuana" admin_label="Marijuana" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.49)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/possession-maryjane-pot.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px||" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Marijuana
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_cta admin_label="Cocaine" module_class="help-block" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto||||" header_font_size="24" header_line_height="1.1em" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.52)" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cocaine-drug-offences-lawyer-2.jpg" background_blend="darken" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17" button_border_width="0" button_font="Roboto Condensed||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" custom_margin="|4px|4px|" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"]Cocaine
[/et_pb_cta][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="3.0.50" custom_padding="50px||50px|" global_module="2847" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Request Free Consultation Form" module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.20.2" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]Request Free ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to find out if you're eligible for a free 30 minute phone consultation.
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### Domestic Offences
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="DOMESTIC OFFENCES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_text_align="left" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-8.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" text_orientation="left" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" sticky_enabled="0"]Domestic offences can wreak absolute havoc in a family. The impact of being charged is also severe. The consequences range from facing a criminal record or worse, jail time, to weeks or months of separation from the partner, to removal of the accused from the household, to increased costs of carrying two households.[/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][et_pb_fullwidth_menu menu_id="132" menu_style="centered" fullwidth_menu="on" active_link_color="#e02b20" disabled_on="on|on|on" admin_label="Domestic Menu" _builder_version="4.16" menu_font="Ubuntu||||||||" menu_text_color="#000000" background_color="#f8f8f8" disabled="on" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_fullwidth_menu][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" module_id="offences" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#ffffff" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="3_5,2_5" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="3_5" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="OVERVIEW OF" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="2.1em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||15px||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What Are Domestic Offences?
There are various kinds of domestic offences which are mentioned below:
	Assault
	Assault causing bodily harm
	Assault with a weapon
	Aggravated assault
	Uttering threats
	Mischief
	Criminal Harassment
	Unlawfully in a dwelling
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_code admin_label="VIDEO: WHY DOMESTICS ARE TAKEN SO SERIOUS" module_class="video" _builder_version="4.16" custom_margin="25px||||false|false" custom_padding="25px||||false|false" custom_css_main_element="font-family:%22ubuntu%22, %22raleway%22, %22myriad pro%22, sans-serif;" global_colors_info="{}"]Why Domestics Are Taken So Seriously - Domestic Defences [/et_pb_code][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||25px||false|false" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defence In Legal Meaning
A defence provides a legal excuse for the offence such that the accused will not be found guilty. It is different from an explanation for why an offence occurred. As with all domestic offences, there are defences to an assault allegation. These can include: consent, self-defence, and mistake of fact. A complete review of these defences is beyond the scope of this information. Contact us if you want to discuss a defence to a crime.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||25px||false|false" custom_padding="||25px||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defending  Domestic Charges and Offences
A defence provides a legal excuse for the offence such that the accused will not be found guilty. It is different from an explanation for why an offence occurred. As with all domestic offences, there are defences to an assault allegation. These can include: consent, self-defence, and mistake of fact. A complete review of these defences is beyond the scope of this information. Contact us if you want to discuss a defence to a crime.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="2_5" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Defence" _builder_version="4.25.2" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" custom_margin="25px||||false|false" custom_css_free_form="selector { display:block; }" global_colors_info="{}"]Defence
A defence provides a legal excuse for the offence such that the accused will not be found guilty. As with all domestic offences, there are defences to an assault allegation. These can include: consent, self-defence, and mistake of fact.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Defence" _builder_version="4.16" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" global_colors_info="{}"]Assault
Any unwanted contact between one person and another person is sufficient. In fact, there need not necessarily be contact so long as the person being assaulted perceives an imminent risk of such contact and the aggressor has the immediate capability of effecting that purpose.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" module_id="charges domestic1-open" module_class="practice_home" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#ffffff" custom_margin="0px||||false|false" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="What Makes An Offence Domestic?" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What Makes An Offence Domestic?
An offence will be deemed ‘domestic’ so long as there is some flavour of romantic/sexual/familial connection between the person charged and the complainant. Thus, husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends will naturally fall within the scope of this definition. The domestic label can also be asserted in the case of a person wanting such a relationship (e.g. criminal harassment) where one party in interested and the other party is not.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Zero Tolerance" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="15px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed|700|||||||" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Zero Tolerance
Although it has long been an offence to strike your spouse, in Canadian society today it is no longer acceptable to turn a blind eye to this behaviour. The physical and emotional harm that is caused by aggressive partners who abuse their spouses is now widely viewed as a social evil that needs to be prevented at any cost. All too often there is escalation in violence. To prevent recurrence of violence, police and Crown attorneys are instructed to treat the person accused of these offences strictly, so as to deter further suggestion of abuse. That is why a person can be charged after a domestic dispute based solely upon one person’s version of events. Police are specifically instructed to make arrests in most cases where one party credibly states that a crime was committed. There is no requirement for a case to be made out beyond a reasonable doubt. All that is required is reasonable and probable grounds.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Example of a domestic offence – Assault – what qualifies?" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="15px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed|700|||||||" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Assault – What Qualifies?
Any unwanted contact between one person and another person is sufficient. In fact, there need not necessarily be contact so long as the person being assaulted perceives an imminent risk of such contact and the aggressor has the immediate capability of effecting that purpose. For instance, something as arguably minor as a wrist grab could constitute an assault. Of course, there are more serious kinds of assault. There is assault causing bodily harm, assault with a weapon, and aggravated assault. There are also similar offences in the sexual assault context including sexual assault simpliciter, sexual assault causing bodily harm, sexual assault with a weapon, and aggravated sexual assault.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" module_id="types" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="empty" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Impact Of Being Charged" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_3_text_color="#000000" header_3_font_size="28px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Impact Of Being Charged
The impact of being charged with a domestic offence is dramatic, both for the person charged and oftentimes the complainant as well. If a person is accused of a domestic offence, they will be fortunate if they are released by the police the same night or the next day. Sometimes the accused is held to fight for his or her release at a bail hearing. Whether released by the police or by the court, the accused will be given an undertaking or recognizance with many conditions on it that have the binding effect of law. These conditions are like new laws for the individual accused that remain in effect until they are cancelled or the charges are ultimately disposed of. The most dramatic release condition imposed upon all persons charged with domestic offences is not to have any contact with the complainant either directly or indirectly.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Types of Domestic Offences " _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Types of Domestic Offences - Assault in all its forms[/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_id="impact" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impact Of Being Charged" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_3_text_color="#000000" header_3_font_size="28px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]This condition is imposed because it is viewed that violence recurrence or escalation will be restricted significantly if the two individuals are not allowed to be in each other’s presence. Of course, the necessary consequence of this condition is that the accused is not allowed to return home (except one time to retrieve personal effects under police supervision) until the condition is changed or the charges are dealt with. This condition might not be what either party wants. The person charged is forced to move out of their home. The complainant loses the ability to communicate with the accused. Joint parenting can become unduly complex or impossible. Financial hardship can worsen. Unfortunately, the hardship occasioned by this condition is viewed as necessary at least for a time.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Breaches Of Probation And Recognizance" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_font_size="16px" text_line_height="1.9em" header_font="|||on|" header_2_font="Ubuntu Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_color="#000000" header_2_font_size="28px" header_3_text_color="#000000" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Other Domestic Offences Including Breaches Of Probation And Recognizance
 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Charging Conditions" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_line_height="1.8em" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed|700|||||||" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Charging Conditions
There are two ways that defence lawyers can help changing release conditions. One is with Crown consent. The other is through a variation hearing before a Justice of the Peace or judge. The process is often complex and expensive. The most common change in conditions sought is the ability of the accused and complainant to communicate. While this condition can be varied, it is not easily accomplished and is not normally recommended before a few months have elapsed.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Options" _builder_version="4.16" text_text_color="#000000" text_line_height="1.8em" header_3_font="Ubuntu Condensed|700|||||||" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Options
A person accused of domestic offences usually has only two viable options: 1) plead guilty or 2) go to trial. A criminal defence lawyer can sit down with an accused person and review the evidence the Crown would seek to admit against the accused to provide the best possible course of action. Contact us now if you would like to schedule a consultation.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" module_class="contact_form" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="50px||50px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code admin_label="Request Free Consultation Form" module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.25.2" text_orientation="center" global_colors_info="{}"]Request Free ConsultationPlease fill out the form below to receive a free 30-minute phone consultation. We will respond to your inquiry within 3 hours.
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[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Case Studies" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_code _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"] R. v. Jacobs – Assault / ChokingOn November 17th, 2024, Ottawa Police located See cases results  R. v. Mohammed – AssaultIn the early hours of December 17th, See cases results  R. v. Anderson – Assault and MischiefLarry and Samantha had been in a See cases results  R. v. Lebeau – AssaultJaques and Amanda were in an on See cases results  R. v. Wan – Assault and MischiefCheng and Min married in China 4 See cases results  R. v. Hartford – AssaultOn February 25th, Karen was at her See cases results  R. v. Lacroise – Careless Driving and AssaultOn the evening of February 8th, Lanark See cases results  R. v. Lamore – AssaultOn February 3rd, 2025, in the city See cases results  R. v. Hamilton – AssaultOn January 20th, 2024, in the Township See cases results  R. v. Baker – AssaultOn April 29th, 2023, at the Dover See cases results  R. v. Barton – AssaultOn December 18, 2024, Liam* was assaulted See cases results  R. v. Sharpton – AssaultIn the early hours of January 18, See cases results  R. v. Mendez – Domestic AssaultShortly after 1am on July 14th, military See cases results  R. v. Johnson – AssaultLate in the evening of July 31st, See cases results  R. v. Sanchez – Domestic AssaultFrancisco and Elena had been in a See cases results  R. v. Wang – Mischief, Assault, Forcible ConfinementSam and Malia were married, with a See cases results  R. v. Murphy – Assault with a Weapon, Attempt to Obstruct JusticeIn August 2021, a massive group of See cases results  R. v. StevensonOn the afternoon of February 25th, Larry See cases results  R. v. Morris – Domestic assault, mischiefJenna had been in a long term See cases results  R. v. Wilson – Criminal Harassment, Assault, Mischief under $5,000Cassie was in an on-again off-again relationship See cases results  R. v. Selim – Assault, Utter threat to Cause DeathEhud and Karen have been in a See cases results  R. v. Shirley – AssaultSarah and Nick were home on a See cases results  R. v. Parson – AssaultAlice and Dan were in a common See cases results  R. v. Smith – AssaultChuck and the victim, Aaron, had been See cases results  R. v. Walsh – Sexual Assault et alIn January 2021, Gary was residing with See cases results  R. v. Merrick – AssaultChristine and Barry have been married for See cases results  R. v. Lornas – Sexual AssaultDerek and Sharon have a young daughter See cases results  R. v. LawrenceBrian was in a relationship with Shannon. See cases results  R. v. DarrensKevin was in the midst of a See cases results  R. v. AleshMohammed was in his home, drinking with See cases results  Historical Indecent Assault Charge – R. v. SmithSexual Assault Facts: Frank is a 69 See cases results  Assault – R. v. McLeanAssault Facts: In December 2016, after an See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. HickeyDomestic Mischief Facts: Joey and Pamela were See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. BrightonDomestic Assault Facts: Alfred and Janice have See cases results  Domestic Mischief – R. v. JamesDomestic Mischief Facts: Mary and Dan were See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. BentovolioDomestic Assault Facts: Mark and his girlfriend See cases results  Criminal Harassment – R. v. MorrettiLuciano was a Canadian Forces member having See cases results  Domestic Assault – R. v. MustafaClient Acquitted for Domestic Assault Charges Ali See cases results  Sexual Assault – R. v. MatthewsSexual Assault: Tim, a 15 year old, See cases results PreviousNext[/et_pb_fullwidth_code][/et_pb_section]

### Break and Enter
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="BREAK AND ENTER" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/criminaldefence-lawyers-ottawa-12.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Overview of Breaking and Entering
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]The charge of B&E – outlined in S. 348 of the Criminal Code of Canada – can be laid on anyone who:
 	Breaks and enters a place with the intent to commit an indictable offence therein;
 	Breaks and enters a place and does in fact commit an indictable offence therein; or
 	Breaks out of a place after committing an indictable offence therein or after initially entering that place with intent to commit an indictable offence therein.
The offence of Breaking and Entering can also carry with it “lesser but included offences” such as Being Unlawfully In a Dwelling-House or Mischief. Similar defences are available to these charges as outlined below.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Punishment
A Break and Enter is considered a serious (indictable) offence and punishment can be severe. If the break and enter is committed in relation to a dwelling house, the accused is liable to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. As per Section 348.1, the fact that the dwelling house was occupied (and that the accused knew that it was occupied) at the time of the offence qualifies it as a home invasion. This becomes an aggravating factor when it comes to sentencing. If the offence involves a non-dwelling house (ie. a business), the maximum sentence is 10 years or 6 years imprisonment depending on the perceived severity of the alleged crime (and whether the Crown proceeds summarily or by indictment.
 [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Defences
Although a common offence, the classic B&E charge is often laid in circumstances in which there a readily available defence. A finding of guilt requires that the accused not only break and enter a place, but that he/she does so in order to commit an indictable offence (ie. theft, robbery, etc) therein. Although the simple act of breaking into a place carries with it a presumption that, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, the accused had the requisite intent to commit an indictable offence therein, that presumption is rebuttable. If the accused can successfully present “evidence to the contrary” (ie. a believable explanation as to why they entered the place) the onus returns to the Crown to prove – beyond a reasonable doubt – that the accused had the necessary intent to commit an indictable offence therein. It is important to explore the above defences with a criminal defence lawyer. Please contact us immediately if you are charged with this or other offences so that we can begin the process of defending your rights as soon as possible.
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### Failure to Comply with Court Orders
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="BREACHES OF COURT ORDER / FAIL TO COMPLY" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/lawyers.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||150px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Failure to Comply with Release Order [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
When a person is charged with a criminal offence and released from custody pending its disposition (bail), the person will be released subject to conditions. Conditions have full legal effect and must be complied with. Conditions are things that the accused must do or not do (depending on the condition) in order to stay out of custody.
Continue Reading...
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Breach of probation order (sentence)[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Probationary orders are imposed by a judge as part of a sentence (after the accused has plead guilty or been found guilty after trial). They are intended to be rehabilitative, meaning, they are designed to help not to punish.Continue Reading...
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Failure to Comply with release order – Continued
An accused person who is charged with a criminal offence and is not in jail is "released" on a release order. We call this process "bail". The names of the order change depending on the circumstances but the effect is the same: there are rules (conditions) that need to be followed while on release.
If the accused is alleged to have violated the terms of their release, they will be re-arrested. Sometimes they are charged with failure to comply. Such people may be held in jail until they are awarded bail or until the charges they were originally facing (and/or the new ones) have been settled. The severity of the breach and the resulting jail time may depend on how many times the accused has breached before, and the likelihood that they will breach conditions again if released. In the case of someone who has substance abuse issues, they may not be released until a proper plan for treatment has been put in place if the judge feels that it may be required in order to best prevent the accused from another breach of conditions.
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Breach of probation order (sentence) - Continued
Probation conditions exist until the end of the period of probation and are seldom varied.
A probationer is supervised by a Probation Officer (PO). They have wide discretion and power to require the probationer to do certain things as set out in the probation order.
Failing to comply with probation is distinct from an undertaking or a recognizance but the effect is the same. It is a new criminal charge with the accused being arrested and in custody pending a new bail plan. Probationary orders range vastly in their duration, depending on the type of offence. The main goal is to prevent the convicted person from re-offending, and it will limit the person’s liberty in order to best achieve this.
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### Assault Charges
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" hover_enabled="0" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_slide heading="ASSAULT CHARGES" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/assault-charges.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on" header_level="h1" header_text_align="center" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Section" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]What is assault?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.27.0" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="19" text_line_height="25" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]In its most common form, assault is when one person applies or threatens to apply force directly to another person. Think a punch or a slap, or telling someone you’re going to beat them up. In the case of threatening someone, the person threatened has to believe that the aggressor has the ability to act on their threat immediately. For instance, threatening someone with a cocked fist while standing right in front of them is different than doing it from the other side of a crowd. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]What are the different degrees of assault?
Simple (or sometimes, common) assaultSimple assault is the most common form of assault in Canada, and covers incidences that do not involve a weapon or any harm to the victim
Assault with a weaponAs it sounds, assault with a weapon is an instance of assault that involves a weapon--if a weapon or an imitation of a weapon is used, carried, or used to threaten during an assault, the charge will probably be assault with a weapon
Assault causing bodily harmAgain, the nature of this charge is in the title--assault causing bodily harm involves assaults in which another person sustains a serious injury
Aggravated assaultAggravated assault is the most serious charge on the list--if the victim is wounded, maimed, disfigured, or has their life endangered the charge will likely be aggravated assault
Remember, while simple assault may be the least serious form of assault, police still take it very seriously, especially in the domestic context.
Defences
As we’ve seen, there are many different types of assault. There are also commonly used defences.
Consensual fightYou cannot assault someone who consents to a fight. For instance, two angry people who punch each other could be considered to consent to the fight they are in. Therefore, neither is the victim of an assault. This remains the case even if one “wins” the fight. In Canada, you cannot consent to bodily harm, so consent can only be used as a defence where there is no bodily harm.
Self-defenceTo claim self-defence, a defendant must be able to demonstrate they acted in a reasonable way to protect themselves or another person.Reasonable self-defence: the victim hits the defendant in the face. The defendant blocks the blow, strikes back, and accidentally knocks the defendant down a flight of stairs.Unreasonable self-defence: The victim punches the defendant in the face. The defendant blocks the blow, walks away, pulls out a gun and shoots the victim.
Defence of propertyTo be able to use defence of property, the defendant must be able to prove that they have legal control over the property they claim to have been protecting. As in self-defense, the defendant must have used reasonable force against the defendant.
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De minimisThis defence argues that the nature of the assault was so minor that it doesn’t count as a criminal offence. This can be something like grabbing a person’s arm and guiding them (not dragging them) away. In Canada, even minor assaults are often considered criminal behaviour, meaning that this defence is rarely successful. 
It never happenedThis is not really a defence. Essentially, the argument is the assault never happened. Because it never happened, the Crown cannot prove the assault and the defendant should be acquitted. There are two common arguments used to try to prove the assault did not happen:
“It wasn’t me”The Crown has to prove that the defendant committed the assault in question. If there is a reasonable doubt, the defendant is found not guilty. In some cases, proving the identity of the person that committed the assault can be very easy. But in some cases, such as a fight between two strangers outside a bar in the early hours of the morning, it can be much more difficult. 
“S/he is lying”This argument is used to cast doubt on the testimony of the victim. It is most often used when the identities of the parties involved in the assault is undeniable. Usually, the defendant and victim have two completely different versions of events.
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[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" background_color="#c80000" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="0px||0px|" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="This article describes non-sexual assaults. " _builder_version="4.16" text_font_size="15" header_font="|||on|" background_layout="dark" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]This page describes non-sexual assaults. For sexual assaults click here.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

### Defence
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_level="h1" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="DEFENCE PRACTICE AREAS" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" background_repeat="repeat" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Criminal Lawyer Ottawa
Looking for experienced criminal defence lawyers in Ottawa to handle your case? 
At Armoured Suits, we understand that facing criminal charges can be an incredibly stressful and daunting experience. Our team of dedicated legal professionals are here to provide you with expert guidance and a robust defence strategy tailored to your unique situation.
Whether you're dealing with charges related to fraud, drug offences, or any other criminal matter, our experienced lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. We pride ourselves on our meticulous approach, ensuring every detail is thoroughly examined and every possible avenue for your defence is explored. With Armoured Suits by your side, you can feel confident that you have a strong advocate fighting for your future.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Key takeaways
Armoured Suits specializes in criminal law, providing tailored legal representation to clients facing serious charges, ensuring a strong defence strategy based on extensive experience.
Our firm demonstrates notable success in real-life case outcomes, effectively managing serious charges to help clients avoid severe consequences, including criminal records.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Introduction to Armoured Suits
At Armoured Suits, we are immensely proud in being more than just a law firm; we are your committed partners in your criminal case, navigating the intricacies of the criminal justice system. Our team of professionals bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of criminal law to every case we handle. We recognize that facing a criminal charge can be one of the most challenging experiences in a person's life, and we are committed to providing the support, guidance, and robust defence necessary to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
Our approach is client-centric, meaning we tailor our defence strategies to the unique circumstances of each case. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your concerns, and address any questions you may have. This personalized approach ensures that you are not just another case number; you are a valued client whose future we are dedicated to safeguarding. Choosing Armoured Suits means choosing a team that is dedicated to fighting for your future.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Whether you are charged with a crime or facing charges related to fraud, drug offences, aggravated assault, impaired driving, sexual assault, illegal searches, or any other criminal matter, you can trust that our experienced lawyers will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. With Armoured Suits by your side, you can face the future with confidence, knowing that you have a strong advocate fighting for you.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Initial consultation process
During the initial consultation, clients have the opportunity to discuss the details of their case with one of our experienced Ottawa criminal defence lawyers. This includes providing a thorough account of the events leading to the charges, any interactions with law enforcement, and any other relevant information. Our lawyers will listen attentively, ask pertinent questions, and take detailed notes to ensure a complete understanding of the case. The consultation also involves a preliminary assessment of the legal issues at hand. Our criminal lawyers will explain the charges, potential penalties, and the legal process, ensuring that clients are fully informed about what to expect.
This initial assessment helps identify any immediate actions that need to be taken, such as preserving evidence or addressing bail conditions and potential consequences. Additionally, the consultation is an opportunity for clients to ask questions and express any concerns they may have about criminal negligence. Our goal is to provide clear and concise answers, helping to alleviate some of the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany criminal charges. We believe that informed clients are better equipped to make decisions about their defence. After gathering all necessary information, our lawyers will outline potential defence strategies tailored to the client's unique circumstances.
This may include discussing possible defences, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's case, the evidence presented and exploring options for plea negotiations or trial preparation. The aim is to develop a robust defence plan that maximizes the chances of a favourable outcome. By the end of the initial consultation, clients should feel more confident and reassured about their legal representation. They will have a clearer understanding of their situation and the steps that will be taken to protect their rights and achieve the best possible result.
The initial consultation process at Armoured Suits is not just about gathering information; it is about building a partnership with our clients. We are committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal support from the very beginning, ensuring that our clients feel supported and empowered throughout their legal journey.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Client communication and support for criminal offences
Effective client communication and support are at the heart of Armoured Suits' approach to criminal defence. From the moment a client reaches out, we prioritize clear, honest, and timely communication. This begins with the initial consultation, where clients are encouraged to share all pertinent details of their case. Our lawyers take the time to listen carefully, ask relevant questions, and ensure they fully understand the client's situation. This open line of communication continues throughout the legal process. Clients are kept informed about the progress of their case, upcoming court dates, and any new developments.
Our lawyers are readily available to answer questions and provide updates, ensuring that clients never feel left in the dark. This transparency helps to alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that can accompany criminal charges. In addition to communication, Armoured Suits provides robust support for clients facing criminal offences. This includes offering guidance on how to navigate interactions with law enforcement, advice on preserving evidence, and strategies for managing the emotional toll of facing criminal charges.
Our team is committed to being a source of strength and reassurance, helping clients feel more confident and prepared as they move through the legal process. By fostering a strong attorney-client relationship built on trust and communication, Armoured Suits ensures that clients receive the comprehensive support they need during one of the most challenging times in their lives.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Real life case outcomes - criminal law" _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Real life case outcomes - criminal law
At Armoured Suits, our track record speaks volumes about our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. We have successfully defended numerous clients facing a variety of criminal charges, ranging from a minor criminal offence to serious felonies. Our meticulous approach and unwavering dedication have led to many positive case outcomes, including dismissals, acquittals, and favorable plea deals. One notable case involved a client charged with drug trafficking.
Through diligent investigation and strategic defence, our team was able to uncover critical flaws in the prosecution's evidence, leading to a complete dismissal of the charges. This case exemplifies our ability to identify and exploit weaknesses in the prosecution's case, ensuring that our clients receive the justice they deserve. In another case, we represented a client accused of fraud. Our thorough examination of the alleged offence, criminal record, financial records and expert witness testimonies helped establish reasonable doubt, resulting in an acquittal.
This outcome not only protected our client's freedom but also their professional reputation. We also have experience in handling cases involving sexual assaults and domestic assault, where our compassionate approach and legal expertise have helped clients navigate these sensitive and often emotionally charged situations. By providing robust defence strategies and support, we have successfully secured reduced charges or alternative resolutions, allowing our clients to move forward with their lives.
These real-life case outcomes highlight the effectiveness of our tailored defence strategies and our dedication to protecting our clients' rights. At Armoured Suits, we understand that every case is unique, and we are committed to providing the highest level of legal representation to achieve the best possible results for our clients.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Handling high stress situations" _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Handling high stress situations
Handling high-stress situations is a crucial aspect of criminal defence, and at Armoured Suits, we excel in managing these intense moments with precision and care. Our experienced lawyers are adept at navigating the complexities of high-pressure scenarios such as arrests, a bail hearing, and supreme court appearances. We understand that these situations can be overwhelming for our clients, which is why we prioritize quick and effective action to protect their rights and interests.
During an arrest, our immediate goal is to ensure that our clients are treated fairly and that their legal rights are upheld. We provide prompt legal advice and representation, guiding clients through the arrest process and advising them on how to interact with law enforcement. Our team is skilled in identifying any procedural errors or violations of rights that may occur during an arrest, which can be critical in building a strong defence. Bail hearings are another high-stress situation where our expertise comes into play.
We work diligently to present compelling arguments for our clients' release, highlighting factors such as strong community ties, employment, and lack of flight risk. Our lawyers are well-versed in the legal standards and precedents that influence bail decisions, and we leverage this knowledge to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients. In court appearances, our meticulous preparation and strategic thinking are key to managing the stress and pressure of the courtroom environment.
We ensure that our clients are fully prepared for what to expect, providing them with the support and guidance needed to navigate their testimony and interactions with the prosecution. Our lawyers are skilled in cross-examination and presenting evidence, always aiming to create reasonable doubt and challenge the prosecution's case. By maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, our team helps to alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that our clients may experience.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Summary" _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Summary
In summary, Armoured Suits stands out as a premier choice for criminal defence services for individuals in Ottawa facing criminal charges. Our experienced team of criminal defence lawyers is dedicated to providing tailored legal representation that addresses the unique circumstances of each case. We pride ourselves on our meticulous approach to defence, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly examined and every possible avenue for your defence is explored. Additionally, our commitment to clear and honest communication ensures that clients are always informed and involved throughout the legal process.
From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we are here to provide guidance, support, and robust legal representation. At Armoured Suits, we understand the immense stress and anxiety that accompany criminal charges. Our goal is to alleviate some of that burden by offering compassionate and dedicated legal support. Whether you are facing charges related to fraud, drug offences, or any other criminal matter, you can trust that our team will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Choosing Armoured Suits means choosing a team that is committed to fighting for your future. With our expertise, dedication, and client-centric approach, you can face the future with confidence, knowing that you have a strong advocate on your side. Contact us today![/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Frequently asked questions title" _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Frequently asked questions[/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title="How can I arrange a free consultation with an experienced criminal defence lawyer?" admin_label="How can I arrange a free consultation with an experienced criminal defence lawyer?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]You can contact our office via phone or through our online contact form available below. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will assist you in scheduling an appointment at a time that is convenient for you![/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="What types of cases does Armoured Suits specialize in?" admin_label="What types of cases does Armoured Suits specialize in?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits specializes in criminal law, focusing on cases such as assault, criminal fraud, theft, drug possession, and trafficking charges.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="How does Armoured Suits ensure effective communication with clients?" admin_label="How does Armoured Suits ensure effective communication with clients?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]At Armoured Suits, we ensure effective communication with our clients through straightforward and honest dialogue, prompt responses to inquiries, and a commitment to confidentiality during the legal process.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="What are the benefits of choosing Armoured Suits criminal defence lawyers for legal representation?" admin_label="What are the benefits of choosing Armoured Suits criminal defence lawyers for legal representation?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Choosing Armoured Suits for legal representation ensures top-tier services, personalized defence strategies, and a proven track record of successful case outcomes.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="Can I contact Armoured Suits if I have a possible prison sentence?" admin_label="Can I contact Armoured Suits if I have a possible prison sentence?" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Absolutely. If you are facing the possibility of jail time, it is crucial to secure experienced legal representation as soon as possible. At Armoured Suits, our team of seasoned criminal defence lawyers are well-equipped to handle serious cases that carry the risk of incarceration.[/et_pb_toggle][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" module_id="contact" sticky_enabled="0"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Consultation Form" module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.20.2" header_text_align="center" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
Please fill out the form below to find out if you're eligible for a free 30 minute phone consultation.
                    Contact Armoured Suits
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[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Section" module_class="practice_home" _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_padding="||0px|" hover_transition_delay="50ms" global_module="2008" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Legal Practice Areas" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto Condensed||||||||" text_text_color="#363636" text_letter_spacing="1px" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#363636" header_font_size="36px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_2_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|||||" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="36px" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_width="3px" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Practice Areas
Now serving Ottawa and select cases across Ontario and the Gatineau Region.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="2_3,1_3" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="2_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Sexual Assault" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Sexual Assault The issue of valid consent is far from black and white, and the criminal justice system takes sexual assaults extremely seriously ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Domestic Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"]
Domestic Offences The damage extends beyond merely reputational issues; there are very real financial, emotional, and legal consequences to those persons charged ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impaired DUI Lawyer" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Impaired Driving An impaired driving charge is the most likely reason that an individual comes into contact with the criminal justice system ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Drug Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Drug Offences Trafficking in a scheduled substance is a common charge that carries ever increasing penalties and is not technically a criminal offence ... 
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Criminal Negligence" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="||0px|" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Criminal Negligence Criminal negligence is the failure on the part of a person on whom a duty is placed to take reasonable steps to prevent a certain bad outcome from happening ... 
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Fraud A strategically sound course of action when dealing with a fraud charge could mean the difference between a sentence of imprisonment or something much less severe ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Firearm Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Firearm Offences Illegal firearms possession is the most common firearms related criminal charge, and is categorized as a hybrid offence with the potential to be pursued ... 
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Youth Charges When a young person is charged with a criminal offence, there are many more procedural safeguards put in place to protect their rights than adults have ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row module_id="load_more" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/load_more.jpg" align="center" align_tablet="center" align_phone="" align_last_edited="on|desktop" admin_label="Load More" _builder_version="4.27.4" animation_style="slide" animation_direction="left" animation_duration="500ms" animation_intensity_slide="10%" border_style="solid" sticky="off" always_center_on_mobile="on" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Can Help
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### Contact
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" module_class="inner_banner" _builder_version="4.16" parallax="on" parallax_method="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover="null" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][et_pb_slide heading="It's Time to Suit Up! Contact us today" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" body_font="||||" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"][/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="2_3,1_3" admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="2_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]We appreciate you reaching out to Armoured Suits and will do our best to make ourselves available to you. Please do not send any confidential information in your initial contact. Any confidential information may be discussed when we personally meet with you.
Please don’t hesitate to contact Armoured Suits via email or call us to find out how we can help you. Take that first step now…
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class="lexiform " _builder_version="4.20.2" header_text_align="left" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Armoured Suits
Please fill out the form below to find out if you're eligible for a free 30 minute phone consultation.
                    Contact Armoured Suits
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[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Office Location
Address: 222 Somerset St W, Suite 406,Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 2G3
Phone 613-233-0008Email yourteam@armouredsuits.ca
Office Hours: 9am-5pm M-F[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.19.2" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]Areas of Service
Armoured Suits is located in Downtown Ottawa. While we primarily service cases in the City of Ottawa and surrounding localities (Alexandria, Brockville, Cornwall, Kemptville, Pembroke, Perth, Renfrew, Smith’s Falls, and L’Orignal),  we also work with clients on select matters across Ontario and the Gatineau region.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" disabled_on="on|on|on" admin_label="section" module_class="map_new" _builder_version="4.24.0" disabled="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_map address="222 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P, Canada" address_lat="45.4171102" address_lng="-75.6915394" admin_label="Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers - Ottawa Office" _builder_version="4.20.2" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_map_pin pin_address="222 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P 2G3" pin_address_lat="45.4201694" pin_address_lng="-75.69462020000003" _builder_version="4.20.2" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits Criminal Law Firm
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### Latest
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### Team
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/criminal-law-firm-ottawa.jpg" locked="on" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider show_arrows="off" show_pagination="off" admin_label="Fullwidth Slider" _builder_version="4.16" parallax="on" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_padding_phone="|||" box_shadow_style="preset6" box_shadow_blur="10px" box_shadow_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.1)" remove_inner_shadow="off" hide_content_on_mobile="off" hide_cta_on_mobile="off" show_inner_shadow="on" button_letter_spacing_hover="0" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off"][et_pb_slide heading="YOUR LEGAL DEFENCE TEAM" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.26)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="||||" body_font="Roboto||||" body_font_size="19" background_color="#ffffff" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/ArmouredSuits_BrandPhoto_1280.jpg" parallax="on" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="on" body_font_size_tablet="19" body_font_size_phone="19" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" sticky_transition="on"]It's time to Suit Up!
[/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="2" specialty="on" background_repeat_1="no-repeat" background_repeat_2="no-repeat" background_position_1="top_left" background_position_2="top_left" padding_right_1="25px" padding_right_2="0px" padding_left_1="0px" padding_left_2="0px" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Why Choose Armoured Suits" _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Why Choose Armoured Suits
Now serving Ottawa and select cases across Ontario and the Gatineau Region.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_code admin_label="Why Choose Criminal Defence Law Firm" _builder_version="4.16" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Read Testimonials[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/criminal-defence-firm-armouredsuits500.jpg" alt="criminal defence firm" title_text="Your-Legal-Defence-Team" url="/why-choose-us/" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_margin="20px||||false|false" custom_padding="25px||||false|false" box_shadow_style="preset3" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" specialty_columns="2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_row_inner column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column_inner type="1_2" saved_specialty_column_type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Kathleen M. Kealey" url="/defence-lawyers/kathleen-kealey/" image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kathleen-kealey-criminal-lawyer-ottawa-534.jpg" alt="kathleen kealey criminal lawyer ottawa" image_icon_width="none" admin_label="Kathleen Kealey" module_class="photo-button" _builder_version="4.21.0" header_font="Roboto||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_letter_spacing="1px" body_font="Roboto||||" animation="off" custom_css_main_element="width:267px;||height:400px;" border_style="solid" image_max_width="none" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Kathleen Kealey Defence Attorney" _builder_version="4.21.0" header_text_align="center" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="20px||||false|false" custom_padding="20px||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Kathleen M. Kealey
Defence Lawyer[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on="on|on|on" _builder_version="4.21.0" text_font_size="11px" custom_margin="0px||||false|false" border_style="solid" disabled="on" global_colors_info="{}"]About Kathleen[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/defence-lawyers/kathleen-kealey/" button_text="About Kathleen" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_size="15px" button_text_color="#FFFFFF" button_bg_color="#343434" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="25px" button_font="||||||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" custom_padding="15px|50px|15px|25px|true|false" global_colors_info="{}" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="#5e5e5e" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner type="1_2" saved_specialty_column_type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Joshua A. Clarke" url="/defence-lawyers/joshua-clarke/" image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/joshua-clarke-criminal-lawyer-ottawa-534.jpg" alt="joshua clarke criminal lawyer ottawa" image_icon_width="none" admin_label="Joshua Clarke" module_class="photo-button" _builder_version="4.21.0" header_font="Roboto||||" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_letter_spacing="1px" body_font="Roboto||||" animation="off" custom_css_main_element="width:267px;||height:400px;" border_style="solid" image_max_width="none" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Joshua Clarke Defence Attorney" _builder_version="4.21.0" header_text_align="center" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="20px||||false|false" custom_padding="20px||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Joshua A. Clarke
Defence Lawyer / Manager[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on="on|on|on" _builder_version="4.21.0" text_font_size="11px" custom_margin="0px||||false|false" border_style="solid" disabled="on" global_colors_info="{}"]About Joshua[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="/defence-lawyers/joshua-clarke/" button_text="About Joshua" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_size="15px" button_text_color="#FFFFFF" button_bg_color="#343434" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="25px" button_font="||||||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" custom_padding="15px|50px|15px|25px|true|false" global_colors_info="{}" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="#5e5e5e" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" admin_label="Row" _builder_version="4.21.0" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column_inner type="1_2" saved_specialty_column_type="1_2" _builder_version="4.21.0" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Anish Sethi" url="/defence-lawyers/gehargeet-singh-grewal/" image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/anish-sethi-criminal-law-firm-ottawa-534.jpg" alt="anish sethi" image_icon_width="none" admin_label="Anish Sethi" module_class="photo-button" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_level="h2" header_font="||||||||" header_text_align="center" header_text_color="#000000" body_font="Roboto||||||||" body_text_align="center" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="18px" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" animation="off" custom_css_main_element="width:267px;" border_style="solid" image_max_width="none" global_colors_info="{}"]Defence Lawyer[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/defence-lawyers/anish-sethi-lawyer/" button_text="About Anish" button_alignment="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_size="15px" button_text_color="#FFFFFF" button_bg_color="#343434" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="25px" button_font="||||||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" custom_margin="25px||||false|false" custom_padding="15px|50px|15px|25px|true|false" global_colors_info="{}" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="#5e5e5e" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner type="1_2" saved_specialty_column_type="1_2" _builder_version="4.21.0" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_blurb title="Robert Machado" url="/defence-lawyers/robert-machado/" image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/robert-machado-criminal-law-firm-ottawa-534.jpg" alt="robert machado criminal law firm ottawa" image_icon_width="none" admin_label="Robert Machado" module_class="photo-button" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_level="h2" header_font="||||||||" header_text_align="center" header_text_color="#000000" body_font="Roboto||||||||" body_text_align="center" body_text_color="#000000" body_font_size="17px" text_orientation="center" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="||0px||false|false" animation="off" custom_css_main_element="width:267px;||" custom_css_blurb_image="max-height:394px;" border_style="solid" image_max_width="none" global_colors_info="{}"]Legal Coordinator[/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url="/defence-lawyers/robert-machado/" button_text="About Robert" button_alignment="center" disabled_on="off|off|off" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_button="on" button_text_size="15px" button_text_color="#FFFFFF" button_bg_color="#343434" button_border_width="0px" button_border_radius="25px" button_font="||||||||" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_on_hover="off" custom_margin="25px||||false|false" custom_padding="15px|50px|15px|25px|true|false" global_colors_info="{}" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="on|hover" button_bg_color__hover="#5e5e5e" button_bg_enable_color__hover="on"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]About Us - Armoured Suits Criminal Defence Lawyers
Armoured Suits has been a top-tier legal firm specializing in criminal defence in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario for over ten years. Our team of seasoned lawyers are committed to delivering exceptional legal representation tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. We recognize that facing criminal charges can be an extremely stressful and intimidating experience, which is why we emphasize clear communication, customized strategies, and steadfast support throughout the legal process.
Our firm is built on the principles of integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. We believe in a client-centered approach, ensuring that each individual feels heard, valued, and understood. Our full team of lawyers are not only skilled in the intricacies of criminal law but are also compassionate advocates who strive to minimize the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompanies legal proceedings.
At Armoured Suits, we offer a wide range of services, including representation for charges such as DUI, drug offenses, assault, theft, and more. Our comprehensive approach involves meticulous case assessment, aggressive defence strategies, and continuous client support. We pride ourselves on our proven track record of success, demonstrated through numerous favorable case outcomes and positive client testimonials.
Whether you are facing minor charges or serious allegations, Armoured Suits is here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect you with confidence. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible defence, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Our commitment and guarantees
At Armoured Suits, our commitment goes beyond just providing legal representation. We promise to stand by our clients every step of the way, ensuring their rights are protected and their voices are heard. Our claims are backed by over fifteen years of experience and a proven track record of successful case outcomes. We pledge to deliver personalized strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case, ensuring the best possible defence.
Our clients can rely on us for transparency, honesty, and unwavering support. We guarantee clear communication, keeping clients informed about every development in their case. Our lawyers are dedicated to minimizing the stress and uncertainty that comes with facing criminal charges. We are here to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer reassurance throughout the legal process.
At Armoured Suits, we don't just make promises – we deliver results. Our firm is built on a foundation of integrity and professionalism, and we take pride in the trust our clients place in us. Whether it's a minor charge or a serious allegation, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Scheduling a consultation
Scheduling a consultation with Armoured Suits is the first step towards securing a robust defence. Our process is designed to be straightforward and stress-free, ensuring clients feel supported from the very beginning. Potential clients can easily schedule a consultation through our website or by calling our office.
During the consultation, clients will have the opportunity to discuss their case in detail with one of our experienced criminal defence lawyers. This initial meeting is crucial for understanding the specifics of the case, identifying potential defenses, and outlining the next steps. Our lawyers take the time to listen carefully to each client's story, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
We understand that facing criminal negligence charges can be a daunting experience, which is why we prioritize creating a comfortable and confidential environment for our clients. Our goal is to provide clarity and reassurance, helping clients navigate the legal process with confidence.
In addition to discussing the case, the consultation also allows clients to ask any questions they may have and learn more about the legal process, potential outcomes, and our approach to defence. This open dialogue helps build trust and ensures that clients feel informed and involved in their defence strategy.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Client communication and support
At Armoured Suits, we understand that effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful defence strategy. Our clients are kept informed at every stage of their legal journey, ensuring they are never left in the dark about the status of any issue in their case. We prioritize clear, concise, and timely communication, providing regular updates and promptly addressing any concerns or questions that may arise.
Our support extends beyond just legal advice. We recognize the emotional and psychological toll that facing criminal charges can take on individuals and their families. That's why our team is dedicated to offering compassionate support, helping clients manage stress and anxiety throughout the legal process. We work closely with clients to build a strong, trusting relationship, ensuring they feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Furthermore, we offer various channels of communication to suit our clients' preferences, whether it's through phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings. Our lawyers are always accessible and ready to provide the guidance and reassurance needed during these challenging times. We believe that a well-informed client is an empowered client, and we strive to equip our clients with the knowledge and understanding necessary to make informed decisions about their defence.
Whether you are dealing with minor charges or facing serious allegations, we are here to guide you through the complexities of the legal system with confidence and expertise. Don't wait – contact our team today to discuss your case and start building a strong defence strategy. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are ready to listen, advise, and advocate for your rights every step of the way.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Frequently asked questions title" _builder_version="4.27.0" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Frequently asked questions[/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title="What is the main service offered by Armoured Suits?" admin_label="What is the main service offered by Armoured Suits?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Armoured Suits primarily offers criminal defence legal services in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="How do the lawyers at Armoured Suits approach each case?" admin_label="How do the lawyers at Armoured Suits approach each case?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Lawyers at Armoured Suits take a personalized approach by tailoring their representation to the specific needs of each individual case. This ensures that every client receives focused legal support.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="What experience do the lawyers at Armoured Suits have?" admin_label="What experience do the lawyers at Armoured Suits have?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]The lawyers at Armoured Suits have over a decade of experience in criminal law, having developed hundreds of successful defence strategies.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="What can a potential client do if they have been charged with a crime?" admin_label="What can a potential client do if they have been charged with a crime?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]A potential client charged with a crime should schedule a consultation with a criminal defence lawyer at Armoured Suits to explore their legal options. Taking this step is crucial for understanding the charges and building an effective defence.[/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title="What steps should a potential client take if they have been arrested?" admin_label="What steps should a potential client take if they have been arrested?" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]If a potential client has been arrested, it is important to remain calm and exercise their right to remain silent until they have spoken with a lawyer. They should contact Armoured Suits as soon as possible to secure legal representation.[/et_pb_toggle][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.16" global_colors_info="{}"]How We Can Help
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button_text="Contact us" button_link="/contact/" use_bg_overlay="on" bg_overlay_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.45)" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="||||" header_font_size="54" header_line_height="1.3em" body_font="Roboto Condensed||||" body_font_size="34px" body_letter_spacing="1px" body_line_height="35" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" parallax="on" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#363636" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20" button_font="Roboto||||" button_use_icon="on" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_icon_color="#ffffff" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="off" header_font_size_tablet="50" header_font_size_phone="50" header_line_height_tablet="1.3em" header_line_height_phone="1.3em" body_font_size_tablet="54px" body_font_size_phone="54px" body_letter_spacing_tablet="1px" body_letter_spacing_phone="1px" body_line_height_tablet="1.9em" body_line_height_phone="1.9em" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on"]Our criminal defence lawyers help make sense of the chaos, answer all of your questions, and create a plan of action to defend you.
[/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading="24 hours / 7 days a week" button_text="Call 613-233-0008" button_link="tel:16132330008" use_bg_overlay="off" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="||||" header_font_size="54" header_line_height="1.3em" body_font="Roboto Condensed||||" body_font_size="34" body_letter_spacing="1px" body_line_height="35" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" parallax="on" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#363636" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20px" button_font="Roboto||||" button_use_icon="on" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_icon_color="#ffffff" button_on_hover="off" header_font_size_tablet="38" header_font_size_phone="38" header_line_height_tablet="1.3em" header_line_height_phone="1.3em" body_font_size_tablet="54" body_font_size_phone="54" body_letter_spacing_tablet="1px" body_letter_spacing_phone="1px" body_line_height_tablet="35" body_line_height_phone="35" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on"]Our experienced lawyers offer criminal defence services across Ontario and the Gatineau region.[/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading="Payment plans are available!" button_text="Learn More" button_link="/how-we-help/#paymentmethods" use_bg_overlay="off" use_text_overlay="off" _builder_version="4.16" header_font="||||" header_font_size="54" header_line_height="1.3em" body_font="Roboto Condensed||||" body_font_size="34" body_letter_spacing="1px" body_line_height="35" background_color="rgba(0,0,0,0.5)" parallax="on" custom_button="on" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#363636" button_border_width="0" button_border_radius="20px" button_font="Roboto||||" button_use_icon="on" button_icon="$||divi||400" button_icon_color="#ffffff" button_icon_placement="right" button_on_hover="off" header_font_size_tablet="38" header_font_size_phone="38" header_line_height_tablet="1.3em" header_line_height_phone="1.3em" body_font_size_tablet="54" body_font_size_phone="54" body_letter_spacing_tablet="1px" body_letter_spacing_phone="1px" body_line_height_tablet="35" body_line_height_phone="35" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_transition="on"]We can customize a solution that fits your budget.
[/et_pb_slide][/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" disabled_on="off|on|on" admin_label="Mobile Banner" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" background_color="#000000" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/ArmouredSuits-criminaldefence-mobilebanner-1.jpg" min_height="1000px" custom_margin="0px||0px||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_5,3_5,1_5" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" background_color="RGBA(255,255,255,0)" max_width="none" custom_padding="2vw|16px||16px|false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_5" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="3_5" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" text_font="Montserrat|800|||||||" text_text_color="#FFFFFF" text_line_height="1.8em" header_2_font="Roboto|800||on|||||" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_text_color="#FFFFFF" header_2_font_size="150px" header_2_letter_spacing="1px" header_4_font="|||on|||||" header_4_text_align="center" header_4_font_size="30px" module_alignment="center" custom_margin_tablet="" custom_margin_phone="35px||||false|false" custom_margin_last_edited="on|phone" header_2_font_size_tablet="150px" header_2_font_size_phone="120px" header_2_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_main_element="font-family: Montserrat, Arial, sans-serif;||font-weight: bolder;||color:#fff;" custom_css_free_form="selector span.top {font-size:18pt; margin-bottom:15px;}||selector span.mid {font-size:70pt; font-weight:bolder;}||selector span.low {font-size:30pt; font-weight:bolder; margin-bottom:25px; line-height:1em }||selector hr.thick {||border: 3px solid white; margin:5px 0 10px;||}" header_2_text_shadow_style="preset1" global_colors_info="{}"]WE HELP
BEAT
CRIMINALCHARGES[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/contact-lawyer.png" url="/contact/" align="center" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" width="50%" global_colors_info="{}" src__hover_enabled="on|hover" src__hover="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/contact-lawyer-hover.png"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_5" _builder_version="4.18.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" custom_padding_last_edited="on|phone" module_id="next_section" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_image="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/intro-bg.jpg" custom_padding_tablet="" custom_padding_phone="0px||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_image src="https://armouredsuits.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/criminal-defence-firm-armouredsuits500.jpg" alt="criminal defence firm" title_text="criminal-defence-firm-ottawa" align_tablet="" align_phone="center" align_last_edited="on|phone" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_margin="25px||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_radii="on|8px|8px|8px|8px" border_width_all="1px" border_color_all="rgba(255,255,255,0.25)" box_shadow_style="preset3" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text module_class="right_text_video" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||" text_text_color="#ffffff" text_font_size="20px" text_line_height="28px" header_font="Roboto Condensed|on|||" header_text_color="#ffffff" header_font_size="24px" background_layout="dark" custom_margin="0px||||false|false" custom_padding="0px||||false|false" custom_padding_tablet="0px||||false|false" custom_padding_phone="0px||0px||false|false" custom_padding_last_edited="on|phone" header_font_size_last_edited="off|" text_orientation_tablet="" text_orientation_phone="center" text_orientation_last_edited="on|phone" custom_css_main_element=".right_text_video h3 {font-size:24px; text-transform:uppercase}" global_colors_info="{}"]CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYERS
You have been arrested and charged. You have never dealt with the court system in your life before. You feel overwhelmed because you don't know what to expect. Will you lose your job? Go to jail? Lose your family's support?
WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR SIDE OF THE STORY! We will listen and BELIEVE YOU. We will fight to achieve an EXTRAORDINARY OUTCOME!
Legal Defence Team | How We Help[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" disabled_on="off|off|off" _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" background_color="#f5f5f5" custom_padding="44px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Legal Practice Areas" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="Roboto||||||||" text_text_color="#363636" text_font_size="16px" text_letter_spacing="1px" text_line_height="1.8em" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#363636" header_font_size="36px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_2_font="Roboto Condensed||||||||" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="30px" header_2_line_height="1.9em" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" text_font_size_tablet="15.5px" text_font_size_phone="15.5px" text_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" text_line_height_tablet="1.8em" text_line_height_phone="1.8em" text_line_height_last_edited="on|desktop" header_2_font_size_tablet="28px" header_2_font_size_phone="26px" header_2_font_size_last_edited="on|phone" header_2_line_height_tablet="1.3em" header_2_line_height_phone="1.4em" header_2_line_height_last_edited="on|desktop" border_width="3px" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Beat the Charges with Armoured Suits: Criminal Defence Lawyers in Ottawa
Being charged with a crime is extremely stressful, and its impact can echo through the rest of your life. When faced with prosecution, you need to be represented by experts who can help you understand and overcome the charges. The defence lawyers at Armoured Suits specialize in criminal law and fight relentlessly on your behalf in order to reach a positive outcome. Our representation is customized to each individual case, and we offer payment plans so that everyone can access the representation they deserve.
How Can a Criminal Lawyer Help You?
Whatever the circumstances of your case, the lawyers at Armoured Suits are ready to defend you. We have over fifteen years of hard-fought experience dealing with criminal offences, and have created hundreds of effective and successful defense strategies. As the law evolves, so do our lawyers - constantly developing to remain at the top of our game. Armoured Suits will protect your rights as we dispute your charges.
Schedule a Consultation With a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Ottawa
Have you been charged with a crime? It can be one of the most difficult times of your life. Reduce your stress and increase your chances of acquittal by seeking effective representation with the Armoured Suits legal team . No matter how complex your charges are, our experienced team of criminal lawyers will fight on your behalf in order to protect your rights. To find out more about our services, or learn if you qualify for a free consultation, contact us today at (613) 233-0008.
Service areas
We serve Ottawa, the National Capital region, Gatineau Quebec, and select cases throughout Ontario.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Section" module_class="practice_home" _builder_version="4.27.0" custom_padding="||0px|" hover_transition_delay="50ms" global_module="2008" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Legal Practice Areas" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto Condensed||||||||" text_text_color="#363636" text_letter_spacing="1px" header_font="Roboto Condensed||||" header_text_color="#363636" header_font_size="36px" header_letter_spacing="1px" header_2_font="Roboto Condensed|||on|||||" header_2_text_align="center" header_2_font_size="36px" text_orientation="center" module_alignment="center" border_width="3px" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Practice Areas
Now serving Ottawa and select cases across Ontario and the Gatineau Region.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="2_3,1_3" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="2_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="||||false|false" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Sexual Assault" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||||false|false" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]
Sexual Assault The issue of valid consent is far from black and white, and the criminal justice system takes sexual assaults extremely seriously ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" module_class="hov" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Domestic Offences" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" custom_padding="||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"]
Domestic Offences The damage extends beyond merely reputational issues; there are very real financial, emotional, and legal consequences to those persons charged ... 
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" make_equal="on" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Impaired DUI Lawyer" module_class="hover_pict" _builder_version="4.16" text_font="Roboto||||" text_font_size="28" text_line_height="36px" text_orientation="center" background_layout="dark" module_alignment="center" global_colors_info="{}"]
Impaired Driving An impaired driving charge is the most likely reason that an individual comes into contact with the criminal justice system ... 
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Drug Offences Trafficking in a scheduled substance is a common charge that carries ever increasing penalties and is not technically a criminal offence ... 
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Criminal Negligence Criminal negligence is the failure on the part of a person on whom a duty is placed to take reasonable steps to prevent a certain bad outcome from happening ... 
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Fraud A strategically sound course of action when dealing with a fraud charge could mean the difference between a sentence of imprisonment or something much less severe ... 
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Firearm Offences Illegal firearms possession is the most common firearms related criminal charge, and is categorized as a hybrid offence with the potential to be pursued ... 
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Youth Charges When a young person is charged with a criminal offence, there are many more procedural safeguards put in place to protect their rights than adults have ... 
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Breaches of Court Order / Fail to Comply When a person is charged with a criminal offence and released from custody pending its disposition (bail), the person will be released subject to conditions ... 
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Murder / Manslaughter Murder is defined within the Criminal Code of Canada (section 231(1) as either first degree or second degree murder. Any intentional killing of another that is planned and deliberate will constitute first degree murder ... 
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Assault ChargesThere is assault causing bodily harm, assault with a weapon, and aggravated assault ... 
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Regulatory Offences Regulatory offences can have different standards when it comes to knowledge and intention, especially when it comes to corporate accused. Strict liability is the norm when it comes to regulatory offences ... 
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Break & Enter The offence of Breaking and Entering can also carry with it “lesser but included offences” such as Being Unlawfully In a Dwelling-House or Mischief ... 
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Theft The crime of theft requires that someone takes possession of something,
or takes steps in order to move, or eventually convert the object in a manner which is fraudulent ... 
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Robbery An assault coupled with the mere intent to steal also qualifies as robbery as defined by the Criminal Code of Canada ... 
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Hate Crimes Definitions of what constitutes a hate crime are highly variable, and as a consequence, ... 
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Pornography Offences For a pornographic picture, video or any other material to be illegal, it must be deemed to be obscene ... 
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Child Luring Under Canadian law, child luring involves the use of technology with the intent to lure or entice a child under the age of 18 for the purpose of engaging in sexual exploitation, incest, child pornography, and/or sexual assault... 
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Arson There are several types of arson, each with its own set of circumstances and penalties. ... 
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Regulatory Offences Regulatory offences can have different standards when it comes to knowledge and intention, especially when it comes to corporate accused. Strict liability is the norm when it comes to regulatory offences ... 
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Criminal Harassment Criminal harassment occurs when someone engages in repeated actions that ... 
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Mischief While every case is unique, there are several potential defences to a mischief charge ... 
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Uttering Threats Uttering threats is defined as knowingly conveying or causing a person to receive a threat to cause death or bodily harm to any person, to damage property or ... 
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## Testimonial
### Anonymous
No one wants to go to the dentist, and no one anticipates needing a criminal lawyer, but sometimes a family member makes a mistake.  And that is when you need a good lawyer to help the person charged, but also that person’s family who are most likely suffering sadness and shock, and wondering what has become of their world.  In Joshua A. Clarke, of Armoured Suits Criminal Defence, my family found a knowledgeable and skilled lawyer who applied his long experience and acquired wisdom to recommend the best defensive approach for our family member.  A major component of the process from beginning to end was Joshua’s willingness and capacity to listen, with empathy, but also without naiveté, to all parties.  I recommend Joshua A. Clarke without reservation or qualification.

### Anonymous
Mr. Gehargeet is a very calm, composed and professional lawyer. I admire his attention to detail and his ability to respond to all my questions in a timely fashion. From day one after speaking with me, he assured me that one thing that he was committed to was to ensure that he and the law firm (Armoured Suits) would work to get me the optimal and desired outcome, which I can tell you was the end result that was achieved.
Thank you very much Mr. Gehargeet for helping me achieve the result sought from day one of meeting with and discussing the case with you.

### Adam and Patricia
Mr Grewal has assisted in having mischief charges withdrawn for our son.  He explained the process of what had to happen when we first reached out to him and then kept us updated of all things happening.   He also told us not to worry.  This went a very long way in helping to keep some of the anxiety and worry down. Thank you so very much for all your help. It was very much appreciated and would recommend you to anyone else that ever needed your expertise.

### anonymous
Mr. Gehargeet,
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for your professionalism and expertise as a lawyer. Your dedication, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to achieving the best outcomes have been truly impressive. Your guidance and clear communication have been invaluable, and I deeply appreciate the effort you put into every aspect of your work. It has been a privilege to have your support and counsel.
Thank you again for everything you do.

### Linda
Mr. Gehargeet, is a very calm and professional lawyer, as well as Armoured Suits Team.
I cannot thank them enough, for their professionalism and swift replies.
It was the worst experience of my life, and Gee made me feel at ease, so often to help me get through the ordeal.
Thank you very much to everyone at Armoured Suits, especially Mr. Gee!

### Ben
My name is Ben and I got myself into a little trouble in 2023.  I was originally trying to navigate the judicial system by myself but found out very quickly, by court advisory council, that I needed help and not to plead guilty. I heard good things about Armoured Suits and specifically, Joshua Clarke. I immediately got in touch with them. I met with Mr. Clarke face to face and we discussed my case and a strategy on what to do. From that moment on I was in the best hands. He advised me what to do, where to go and what to say. I hardly had to do anything, and it made the stress of the situation much easier to bear. With some proactive work on my part (advised by Mr. Clarke) and the great work done by him and his team at Armoured Suits, I am now on a peace bond for a year. I was not charged and don’t have a record. I appreciate everything Mr. Clarke and Armoured Suits did for me and would highly recommend them to anyone needing advice or representation.

### Brent D
Hiring a lawyer is a very hard thing to do. Especially when you're already stressed. I had no idea what I was doing, what I was looking for or what I needed. I talked to many different criminal lawyers over several days across the city. It wasn't until I spoke with Joshua that I felt confidant in what I was doing. He is very easy to talk to, very informative and straight to the point. He doesn't beat around the bush and he is honest. His team and services were fantastic through this very difficult time in my life. I have nothing but positive things to say about Joshua and Armoured Suits. Highly recommended.

### Louis Anthony Conrad Mineault
Joshua provided sound legal advice that led to a most favorable outcome.  His overview of the situation and the law was on point, and he made arguments that convinced the judge that our client did not deserve the fate argued by the Crown.

### ALCM
Joshua is a man of his word.  He was straight to the point, provided an accurate overview of the law and he shielded our client from a potentially difficult outcome. I recommend Joshua and his team to my friends and associates.

### Brad Z
Josh and his team were phenomenal to work with from start to finish. It was effortless on my part as they guided me through the process and kept me informed while the crown moved at a glacial pace. Evidently Josh and Anish were able to have all charges dropped. 
I couldn't be more thankful for Josh and his team for all of their assistance.
I would highly recommend their organization to anyone looking for the highest level of professionalism,  expertise and integrity.

### Roberto B
Josh was amazing and easy to deal with.  He is compassionate and very professional.  The result was not 100% what I was expecting but was 100% something that I could live with.
I would recommend Armoured Suits to anyone that needs these types of services!

### Robert A.
Joshua Clarke and his team provided our family with incredible service and support. They were extremely professional and compassionate and delivered the promised results.
I would definitely recommend Joshua and his team to anyone looking for a highly professional and honest lawyer.

### Ike Fleury
Mr. Clarke navigated my case through the legal system with ease and understanding.  Additionally Mr. Clarke is compassionate and attentive to needs, thank you.  If I ever need legal services or anyone I know, I will for certain guide them towards Mr. Clarke and his organization.

### 
Armoured Suits were absolutely incredible assisting me through a challenging time. They were prompt, compassionate and extremely helpful. Dealing with many uncertainties overseas, they made every provision to be there in a moment's notice. An amazing service overall.

### D
Out of nowhere, I got a call from the police for a historic charge which took me and my family by surprise. Without knowing what to do, I contacted Armoured Suits for help. During the day at the police station, Kathleen was there to guide me while Joshua helped my family to go through the process. We were very grateful for their work and eventually I stayed with Kathleen to go through the rest of the process including the trial. 
It was an extremely difficult time but Kathleen was there to guide me through the process which I'm not familiar with. She was there when I have questions and worked with everyone professionally to get my side of the story out. The whole process took almost a year and half and I'm happy that everything is all cleared now. I'm very grateful for all the work Kathleen and the rest of the staff did during this difficult time. I would definitely recommend them if I know anyone who might need their service.

### anonymous
Joshua Clarke represented me in a DUI case recently. He was recommended by a friend and was pleased to find that he was responsive to my first call and set up a meeting to discuss the details of the event.
Joshua was courteous and respectful during our meeting. He asked detailed pertinent questions including a history of my past that he thought would be relevant to the case. We discussed the details of the event and followed up with several options that I could make. There was no pressure to select an option that I was not comfortable with.
We met going through phone calls to discuss the process of a court hearing and he covered all of the details of what was to happen. There were no surprises or unanswered questions that were left.
Joshua represented me in court and provided all of the necessary facts to the judge in a very respectful way to the judge and did not miss any important details that might make a difference on my behalf. The court proceeding was short and the judge was able to rule immediately and the issue was resolved promptly.
I was extremely pleased at the ease of this with very little stress on my behalf.
Joshua demonstrated professionalism with me personally and in the court. He has a great body of knowledge about criminal law. I trusted his feedback and any comments he had to offer.
The cost of obtaining his service was very reasonable which is an important matter when going through a legal matter. 
I highly recommend him as an attorney for representation without hesitation. Regards.

### Q
If I can sum up Joshua's work in one word, it would be AMAZING!!! He provided excellent service and I am extremely happy with the results of my case. I would most definitely recommend him to anyone.

### B
I recently had the the unfortunate need of a good lawyer. After being in a tight situation both personally and financially Joshua and his team were able to assist me at a high and efficient way.  While my charges were not of a high level stature they still treated it as such, knowing what the impact of a negative result would do to me. The entire process was settled in a very timely manner and at no point was I left feeling like I didn't know what was going to happen or what to do it. I cant say enough good things about my experience. Very highly recommended. 
Thanks to them for all they did.

### A & G
If you are considering whether you need a lawyer or not, let me help you right now…
YES, YES, YES, you do.
Most of us never think we need a lawyer and believe we will all be all treated equally and fairly. That’s not always true. **
Hiring Josh and Armoured Suits to defend us was best decision we ever made.
Self represented defendants are not treated the same as those with representation.
You need to hire professionals whose full-time job is looking out for you… because you don’t have time or the energy to try and navigate the system by yourself.
We met with Josh, reviewed our case and paid our retainer. Within hours, our disclosure package was requested, and our case started moving forward.
After the retainer was paid, we received documentation showing the work being done and where always kept up to date on our case. We were given options regarding our case and even alternatives if things didn’t go our way.
I tell anyone who will listen to call Josh and Armoured Suits if ever they need representation (or even think they might need representation.
You won't regret it***

### Steve
I was Charged with Assault for pushing my gf when she was hurting me while in an argument. It was pretty horrible to deal with, cops got called and lucky me got some silver bracelets and my ass brought to the police station and put in the holding cells. All for trying to stop my gf from punching and hitting me. I was locked up for 12 hours than released on the conditions of can't live there, can't see my kids and no contact. I was with her for 12 years. This was sooo messed up. How did this happen?
I called Joshua Clarke at armored suits and assured me that we can beat this, but was honest with me every step of the way which was very much appreciated. I had no idea what was going to happen however jail and a criminal record were very very real possibilities for me.
Three months Later, working with Joshua Clarke having meetings, answering my emails, stupid questions I'm sure I had for him, he made it easy. Always got back to me promptly, everything was good, we prodded the crown a few times and they aren't always the easiest ppl to deal with and get back usually on THEIR terms and timeliness. Luckily I got through everything within three months. Under $2000.00 for all services rendered. Stood up for me, believed my story and had to do anger management which I jumped on right away and completed. I didn't have too pay no restitution at the end of it. Oh and did I mention I'm at home with my wife and kids in under 4 months with no criminal record. The charge was Domestic Assault and everything was dropped, no trial luckily just an accountability program.
This Firm ROCKS. Josh has got your back. If ever I have criminal issues again I'm calling Joshua for sure.

### Anonymous
A minor driving accident had to be settled judicially. Josh handled it effectively, efficiently and fairly. Strongly recommend him and his associates.

### Dean
Our experience working with Armoured Suits was a very big success, due to the explicit nature of our case, the team at armoured suits had no hesitation in making us feel welcome and were empathic towards our situation. It was with great intellectuals and sheer dedication our lawyer Kathleen Kealey intersected the case with not just knowledge but did it all while holding an elegance and a no give in attitude, personally she and and all the members at armoured suits inspired and supported us through the trying times at hand. We and also our family couldn't be more appreciative and are full of gratitude and would recommend armoured suits to anyone looking to find a team as motivating and dedicated as they are all while taking great strides of grace in regards to how ever unique your situation is or private in nature. We can say with great confidence Armoured Suits got the truth out from our side to succeed in justified victory, we highly recommend Armoured Suits.
Thanks to Kathleen Kealey and all the members of the Armoured Suits team.
Kind regards,
Dean & Stefanie and Family

### Ken D
This was with out a doubt the darkest time of my life. I can't see how i would have gone through this ordeal with out Joshua. With his knowledge in court and unmatched skills i got to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can't thank you enough for your patience and commitment during the year I've been through. Thank you, not just from me but my entire family Joshua.

### Anonymous
I remember the day I was looking at these reviews. It's not easy processing unexpected and sometime unpleasant events that take place in life while having to find a defense lawyer you can trust will have your best interest and work hard to advocate on your behalf. I cannot commend Josh and his team enough!
From day 1, it was clear that Josh knew what he was talking about. He says it like it is (which is a quality you want from someone in his position) and is very knowledgeable. He is professional and exercises a great deal of patience and flexibility, especially when it comes to working with difficult clients like myself (I am stubborn, hard headed and had endless questions). Although there was little interaction with his team, I know they are hard at work behind the scenes.
Josh showed commitment to my case, while representing and advocating the course of action I wanted. Josh was able to achieve the results I desired and I couldn't be more thrilled with the outcome. Thank you!

### Anonymous
One word - WOW!
I will spare all the details, but I was falsely accused by someone I trusted. Scared, broken, stressed, and severely depressed I turned to Amoured Suits.
I spoke to Kathleen for at least 30 min for a free consult. I was sold.
Throughout my ordeal, I never doubted once that Kathleen believed me. She produced the ultimate result and I have my life and name back. This was done extremely economically I might add.
This firm raises the bar (pardon the pun) for legal representation in Ottawa. I hope our paths will cross again - but this time outside of the legal system.
You cannot go wrong entrusting Kathleen or Joshua with your case. I promise.

### Christopher Scharf
Mr. Clarke represented my case phenomenally from the beginning. He was very comforting and easy to talk to and explained everything in different scenarios to make sure I understood everything clearly.  I can't thank him and his team enough for the best possible outcome...case closed. Thank you

### Edward
Mr. Clarke represented me when I was charged with criminal harassment. As a senior and never charged before this was very stressful to me and my family. He was very helpful and in my opinion, went above and beyond my expectations. I would most certainly recommend Mr. Clarke in a heartbeat. Very professional, compassionate and always took the time to answer my questions.

### Lyle
Mr. Clarke represented me when i was charged with indecent sexual assualt. I had never been in a position to need a criminal defense lawyer so had no idea how to hire one. Lots of searching on the internet and I selected a very short list to contact. I arranged a consultation appointment with Mr. Clarke and immediately felt I had found someone who was experienced and well informed in this line of defence. Throughout the entire experience, although it was never easy, Mr. Clarke always made me feel confident that I had made the right choice. He was always available to speak or meet with. He was very professional and impressive to watch in court. I would certainly recommend Mr. Clarke to anyone looking for a criminal defense lawyer.

### Aiman Z.
I have been fortunate enough to use Mr. Clarke's legal services after running into some legal issues last year. As a person with little or no contact with the world of justice and legal affairs, I was very worried and intimidated by such an environment. Mr. Clarke's law firm put me at ease and was there when I needed them. I would not hesitate to recommend his firm to anyone in need of legal counsel. Mr. Clarke was available and accessible by phone, email and in person. He answered all my questions and really gave me peace of mind when I needed it. I truly felt that Mr. Clarke and his legal team cared about my situation. Furthermore, I was also impressed by his professionalism, knowledge and awareness of my legal case and the justice system in general. I felt confident during court dates and had no worries that I would be represented with the highest degree of attention and care. The end result of his diligent work was a successful resolution to my charges.  I would strongly urge anyone in need of legal counsel to reach out to Mr. Clarke and his law firm to take care of any legal issue that you may be under.

### David & Teresa
We retained the services of Armoured Suits as plaintiffs in a criminal matter. The firm dealt with the matter with precision and effectively championed a successful resolution. Found their team to be very responsive and professional from start to finish. Highly recommend!

### Julian
Hello my name is julian browne and I had a brief trial and Joshua was my lawyer just for questioning and I'm gonna say that he did a very good job for me, he not only questioned the opponent, he gave me pointers that made me wise  enough to win my case as I was representing myself. I thank him because yesterday July 5 was that day that my stress that was holding over my head was relieved.  thank u joshua for everything may god always give u strength  and knowledge  to help others. I really appreciate  what u did for me in a short time.

### Anonymous
I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Joshua Clarke and his respectable team. The hard part of it was dealing with my case that got hung up in court for a couple years, it put my family and I through very hard times. It stopped me from working in fields I was qualified for, as well as work and travel that was in the works. Mr. Clarke and his team were down to earth and didn't talk around me, he took the time to get to know me and my situation. I happy to say that the case was dropped, Mr. Clarke as a representative knew how to work a room and never talked down nor over anyone's head. I was happy with having him represent me and would encourage if you need a good lawyer that Clarke and his team would be a great choice...thanks you Joshua Clarke and everyone in your office for everything

### Jacob
Charges withdrawn in exchange for peace bond, a best possible, and completely unexpected outcome for the case.  This outcome saved valuable time, and money that would have otherwise been spent on trial, as well as negated the risks.
Mr. Clarke, and his associate, Kathleen, were valuable assets every step of the way, providing insight, recommendations, and reassurance; as well as explaining the proceedings, in a clear, and concise manner.
Throughout the process of my case, communication was provided, accurately, and in a timely fashion. They were flexible, and willing to set appointments, that worked with my schedule.
I would strongly recommend Mr. Clarke to anyone I know in need of a criminal defence lawyer.

### Youth Criminal Law
"Unfortunately, my son got in trouble this past year and we were fortunate enough to be represented by Joshua. The service we received from Joshua and his staff was so appreciated. Joshua was a thorough professional providing the best advise possible. I would recommend his services to anyone. Thank you once again."

### Drug Possession Charge
"Mr. Clarke recently represented me in a simple possession drug charge. He was quick to get to the facts and get started. Not wasting time and being very professional Mr. Clarke took to the court room to defend my rights. Along side him was his great assistant Diana who was constantly available for questions and any assistance needed. together they make a team and i would recommend them over and over again.If your unsure of your situation call Armoured Suits they will steer you right. Thx guys"

### Youth Criminal
Recently, Mr. Joshua Clarke represented my adolescent son in a criminal charges matter. He clearly explained the whole process, listened carefully to my son's explanations and his side of the story. Mr. Clarke took his time to view all the evidence regarding the case and gave my son support during this difficult time. At the end all charges were withdrawal and the case was dismissed.
We are very grateful to Mr. Clarke and his Legal Assistant - Diana Kelly for their help. We highly recommend Mr. Joshua Clarke for anyone who needs a professional attorney with lots of experience and knowledge. Thank you again.

### Criminal Defence
I have no reservations is recommending Josh. He is nice, professional, well organized and insightful. In the court room, he does an amazing job. I was confident in him the whole time.

### Youth Criminal
Joshua represented us on a youth matter which went to trial. He was very informative of the court processes and guided us along a rough journey over two years before the trial was finished. We feel we were well represented in dealing with a tough justice system that we had no knowledge of. He ensured that that all of our questions were answered and that we were able to choose the best options to move the process forward. We always felt that Joshua was upfront about the issues and the expected outcomes. We would definitely recommend his legal services to any family dealing with criminal charges. Thank you to Joshua Clarke and team for your support during the most stressful time of our lives.

### Criminal Law
Mr. Clarke represented me in a criminal matter recently, and his expertise and professionalism in the legal arena were apparent immediately. He was very up front and honest with his opinions regarding the facts of my case, and took the time to address all of my concerns. His fee structure was very reasonable, and I would in fact argue that Joshua's services could be valued much higher than what he charges. Most importantly of course, Joshua won the case. Watching him argue in the courtroom put my mind at ease, as he was able to expose each of the weaknesses and inconsistencies in the crown's case using his extensive legal knowledge, and tenacious cross examination style. As a young professional who became unexpectedly caught up in the legal system, Joshua got my life back on track, and I am eternally grateful for his help. Thanks Mr. Clarke.

### Criminal Law
I retained Joshua's services as a Criminal Lawyer a number of months ago and have been very pleased with his work. Joshua is a thoughtful, caring, professional lawyer in every way. He listened to me and my concerns, professionally and emotionally both very carefully. Joshua is very meticulous in everything he does. I would highly recommend Joshua in any legal matter and would gladly retain his services again. Good work Josh!

### Criminal Law
Excellent. That is one word I can use describe Mr. Clarke's services. If I were to use a graduated scale to describe Mr. Clarke's services I would say 100% + plus. I met Mr. Clarke quite by coincidence and am glad I met him. I met him through a fellow inmate while in remand for failing to appear. Mine was a 15 years old case involving DUI. The crown had three witnesses and we had none. But Mr. Clarke still won the case! What I specially liked about him is that he provided me with all the legal information concerning my file and involved me in all the decision making. He also informed me of all the possible outcomes no matter how remote. This did help me prepare mentally, for the fight. Mr. Clarke is definitely a winner and a professional whom I would generously recommend to both friends and family members who might need legal services.

### Criminal Defence Lawyer Reviews
I would like to express my appreciation for the service provided from Joshua Clarke. I came into a conflict with the legal system after having no previous problems into my mid 30's. Naively I thought I would be able to handle a criminal matter on my own as I initially thought the matter to be simple and straight forward. However after making very little progress over the course of months representing myself all I learned was that it was I don't know what I don't know that can legally hamstring a person dealing with the criminal justice system. I came into Joshua's office broken and even not sure of myself anymore and wondering if I should just give up and plead guilty just to move on with my life which would have ended up having life long consequences. 
A few meetings with Joshua helped get me back on track and be able to stay on message. The result is that Joshua was able to point out to the Crown Prosecutor that there was not enough evidence that I was guilty and everything was due to a miscommunication and mistake. As a result all charges were withdrawn and I was finally able to move on with my life after a stressful year and a half.

### Family Law
Joshua was Excellent! My situation was rather unique and required additional tact and effort- Mr Clarke handled my case within the anticipated budget and went beyond my expectations with additional services. I would highly recommend Joshua to anyone requiring legal services.

### Criminal Law
Joshua was very helpful and trustworthy with my Son's case. He was open and honest about our case and did all he could to help us with our situation. I highly recommend Joshua Clarke as an attorney!

### Criminal Law
Joshua Clarke has shown exceptional service while providing me the just outcome I deserved. Not only was he professional and informative, he always took my calls and took the time to answer all of my questions. I felt reassured under his defence and would recommend him to anyone.


## Cases
### R. v. Levant - Careless Use of Firearm
Late on February 12th, OPP were contacted regarding a vehicle alarm and gunshots being heard. The caller reported seeing James near the vehicle with something long in his hand. En route, police had a phone call with James, during which he stated that he confirmed having a gun and shot the truck.
Upon police arriving at his residence, James exited and cooperated with police instructions. He was arrested for mischief, unsafe handling of a firearm, and careless use of a firearm. Three firearms and ammunition were seized due to public safety concerns. James was subsequently released on an undertaking and provided a court date.
Result: This case was challenging because, on the one hand, firing a gun into a vehicle in a residential neighbourhood is irrational even if you are drunk, yet it was in the middle of the night with no one else around and the only person who could have been hurt was the shooter.
At our urging, the accused took to sobriety. He went to AA. He took an anger management course. He pleaded guilty and was cooperative throughout. He had a history of employment and had no criminal record.
We advocated for a conditional discharge (no criminal record) given his strong rehabilitative prospects, but the judge couldn’t justify it, given the danger posed by the accused’s actions. He ultimately was given a criminal record and placed on probation. He also forfeited many family heirloom firearms because he was not registered to possess them.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Page – Driving While Suspended
On March 3rd, Cst. Fraser was on patrol in Smiths Falls when she received an alert of a vehicle with unattached plates, which she observed and followed. When she pulled the vehicle over, Cst. Fraser confirmed the plates were unattached, as well as the registered owner of the plates. The vehicle passenger, identified as the owner of the plates, stated the vehicle was borrowed from a neighbour in order to pick up a prescription in Smiths Falls. The driver stated that she did not have a licence, but was identified as Amanda via health card. Further investigation revealed that the vehicle was recently purchased by the passenger, but title was never properly transferred and the vehicle was uninsured. The investigation also revealed that Amanda’s licence had been suspended since June due to unpaid fines. She was subsequently charged with driving while under suspension.
Result: This accused pleaded guilty to the count as charged, however she was given a lenient sentence. She received a $500 fine and a six month driving suspension, avoiding jail time, which was her primary concern.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Johnstone – Impaired Driving
On the morning of August 27th, OPP were dispatched to South Glengarry Township regarding a vehicle facing backwards in the ditch and the driver with her face on the steering wheel. A nearby driveway was taped off due to recent paving. The property owner advised police that her cleaner got stuck attempting to exit onto the road. The cleaner, identified as Ellen, advised that she had attempted to leave after spending the previous night at the back of the residence. 
While speaking with police, Ellen showed difficulty maintaining focus on the conversation, slurred speech, and appeared to be unsteady on her feet. Based on this and other information provided, police suspected Ellen of impaired operation of a motor vehicle. A container with white pills, suspected to be methamphetamine, was found on Mary’s person during a search. At the police station, a DRE evaluation was conducted, and a urine sample provided for analysis. 
Ellen was charged with operation while impaired, and possession of a Schedule I substance.
Result: This matter should have had a trial (or the Crown should have fully withdrawn – but they refused despite repeated attempts to persuade them) because the Crown’s case was so weak, but the client decided she didn’t want one. She did plead guilty to careless driving (avoiding a criminal record) instead of impaired driving and she did plead guilty to possession of Schedule I substance. Overall, she avoided a criminal record, which was her main objective.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.
Excerpt: While speaking with police, Ellen showed difficulty maintaining focus on the conversation, slurred speech, and appeared to be unsteady on her feet.

### R. v. Jacobs – Assault / Choking
On November 17th, 2024, Ottawa Police located an e-bike reported stolen from the owner, Corashi Stehouwer, in the possession of Aaron. The value of the e-bike is not more than $5,000, and Aaron was believed to know that it was obtained by crime. During the arrest, officers also located methamphetamine also known as Meth, a Schedule I controlled substance, on his person. Aaron was charged with possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 and possession of a Schedule I substance.
On January 22nd, 2025, Aaron was further arrested in relation to a domestic incident involving the victim, Samantha. He was charged with assault-choking and uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm. He was released on an Undertaking with conditions that he does not attend the victim’s place and communicate with her. 
The next morning, on January 23rd, 2025, Aaron breached these conditions by attending the victim’s residence around 8:00 a.m. and entering the apartment. While inside, he also had contact with the victim, causing an argument after she found him in the bedroom. Police were called and attended the residence at approximately 4:20 p.m., where Aaron was arrested for two counts of failing to comply with an Undertaking. He was given his rights to counsel and a 524 warning before being transported to Central Cellblock and held for a show cause hearing.
Result: This case posed some challenges in that evidence was strong on the breach charges, arguably the most serious, and therefore separate trials on all matters did not make sense. He pleaded guilty. Later, he was re-arrested having breached his no-contact order again by letting her come to his house. He had no criminal record at the beginning. Unfortunately, he was not able to access important addiction and mental health services and wasn’t able to complete the New Directions Partner Assault program in advance. He received a three month jail sentence, plus ancillary orders.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.
Excerpt: Aaron breached these conditions by attending the victim’s residence around 8:00 a.m. and entering the apartment.

### R. v. Mohammed - Assault
In the early hours of December 17th, police responded to a 911 call regarding an injured youth who was bleeding from several injuries. The victim had been in communication with a female for the week prior, who conspired with Ahmed to set him up.
Shortly after stopping in the parking lot of Brewer Park, a dark vehicle parked behind the victim’s vehicle and several masked individuals exited. After unlocking the passenger door, these individuals began to attack the victim, who was overwhelmed while attempting to fight back. The victim managed to flee after being cut numerous times and being robbed of his cell phone and Nike shoes.
Outcome: Ahmed was a youth (under 18). We were hired after the client pleaded guilty. We gathered many documents to support the client and he had a bright future. He previously has no criminal record and came from a supportive family. However, the offence was just too serious. Since he was a youth, his sentencing was governed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act. He was sentenced to 90 days in open custody (group home) and two years of probation.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.
Excerpt: Police responded to a 911 call regarding an injured youth...

### R. v. Stanfield - Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle
On December 27th, police responded to a collision involving an impaired driver.  At the scene, multiple witnesses indicated that the driver, identified as Eric Stanfield, was driving southbound, failed to stop for a red light, and struck an eastbound vehicle, causing it to spin and strike a third vehicle. While speaking with police, Eric admitted to failing to stop for a red light. During the conversation, police noted indications of impairment, and seized empty cannabis/THC packages. Eric was transported to a hospital and subsequently charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs. 
Outcome: The client was not impaired but rather mentally ill. We sought an not criminally responsible diagnosis from a doctor and it was supported. As a result, he was found not guilty by virtue of mental illness. He was referred to the Ontario Review Board for further supports and supervision, but he avoided a criminal record and no further driving suspension.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.
Excerpt: At the scene, multiple witnesses indicated that the driver was driving southbound and failed to stop for a red light...

### R. v. Witfield - Careless Driving
One evening, Rideau Lakes OPP were contacted regarding a string of traffic complaints originating from Frontenac OPP involving a vehicle speeding, braking and crossing lanes erratically. When stopped by police, Alana was identified and admitted to being the driver in question. Police noted a smell of beer, and that Alana was unsteady on her feet. At the police station, police obtained breath samples with readings of 210 and 190.
Outcome: There were weaknesses in the Crown’s case regarding the timing of the breath demand. The Crown recognized this and agreed to a guilty plea to careless driving instead of impaired driving. As a result, Alana avoided a criminal record (and immigration consequences) and had no further driving suspension.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Moore - Impaired Driving
Just before 6am on April 16th, Special Cst. Briggs noticed an SUV almost in the ditch on the eastbound side of March Rd. After pulling up alongside the vehicle, Cst. Briggs made several attempts to get the attention of the driver before requesting assistance from Ottawa Police and paramedics. After several minutes, the driver finally woke up and was shocked by the presence of police. After confirming the driver’s name as Alan, Cst. Briggs went on to form reasonable suspicion that Alan was intoxicated, and subsequently arrested after providing a failing result in a roadside screening device. At the police station, breath readings of 144 and 164 were obtained. Alan was charged with operation while impaired.
Outcome: The client pleaded guilty to careless driving. He avoided a criminal record and didn’t have a further suspension of his driver’s licence. He did get a fine and did have to install the interlock machine into his vehicle for a year.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Whitmore - Impaired Driving
On the afternoon of May 14th, police were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision in the City of Clarence-Rockland. The victim called police stated he was rear-ended by Sandra while at a stop sign eastbound on Du Gold Road. Sandra told police she was not paying attention to the road as her vehicle has automatic braking when approaching a stopped vehicle. A roadside breath sample was provided, registering as a fail. Sandra was arrested for impaired operation. At the station, further breath samples were provided, registering readings of 276 and 273.
Outcome: This was her second offence within ten years but the Crown agreed to treat it as a first offence. She pleaded guilty and received a high fine instead of the mandatory minimum 30 days in jail.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Anderson - Break and Enter, Mischief
On March 24th, Lanark County OPP were called to a theft in progress at a solar farm in Tay Valley Township. Security monitoring the property observed suspicious males carrying what appeared to be copper coils and contacted police. The responding officers located a hole cut into the perimeter fence along with fresh footprints leading towards a wooded area. Containment patrols were then commenced, but with negative results.
On March 25th, police received a report of a break and enter at the same address. After arriving, police noted the gate was padlocked shut, and two vehicles were also found, warm to the touch and with tools inside. In the course of searching the area, Ethan was one of three individuals observed walking in the immediate vicinity of the property.
Ethan was arrested and charged with mischief under $5000, break and enter, and possession of property obtained by crime under $5000.
Outcome: The client made some inculpatory statements saying that he knew his friends were doing a bad thing. Ultimately, the Crown agreed to a peace bond and withdrew the charge. The client avoided a criminal record.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. MH – Possession of Child Pornography
A and M, both youths, had been in a relationship for three years.  Police became involved upon receiving a report that M had posted pictures of A without her consent from a Twitter account.   Some of these images had been provided privately, without A consent to share the . The account contained pictures of other girls as well.  These had already been posted to social media, but suggestive captions and hashtags had been added.   M was initially charged with possession for the purpose of publication any child pornography, and Possession for the purpose of distribution any child pornography.
Outcome: After defence counsel conducted negotiations with the Crown attorney, M was able to resolve his charges for a plea to the lesser offence of mischief and received a discharge with conditions. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Henderson – Theft Under $5000
For a period of time, Sara was in hospital to attend to medical issues. During this time, she had asked Linda to care for her dogs. Upon discharge from the hospital, Sara contacted the police, claiming she that Linda refused to return her dogs unless she was paid for the time spent caring for them.  Police attended to obtain the dogs but claimed that one was still not returned and so Rachelle with theft under $5000.
Outcome: After further discussion with the Crown attorney, the charges were eventually stayed. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Anderson - Assault and Mischief
Larry and Samantha had been in a relationship for 5 years. Each had two children from previous relationships, and one child in common. One day, Larry was returning their child to Samantha and an argument broke out.  He was charged with uttering threats and the police added more charges after Wendy went in to give a statement. Overall, Larry faced six charges, including assault and assault by choking. 
Outcome: At trial, the defence was able to demonstrate that there were serious concerns about the complainant’s credibility.  As a result, Larry was acquitted of everything but the mischief.*  He received a conditional discharge with three years’ probation and a restitution order. 
*This finding of guilt is currently under appeal. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Armand - Sexual Assault
Thomas is the uncle of the victim Jen, and the adoptive brother of Jen’s mother. Between February 20, 2014 and February 19, 2020, Thomas was accused of sexually assaulting Jen while she was at her grandmother’s residence. Thomas would ask Jen to play the ‘bum’ game and take her pants down. While she was under a blanket, Thomas would touch her private parts, and she was made to touch his penis, which he would also pull out and ask her to lick it. The incidents started when Jen was around 5 years old, and she started to realize what was happening when she was around 10 years old, and recalls Thomas taking pictures of her private area and being scared. During part of the period of the incidents involved, Thomas was under 18 years old. As a result, Thomas faced charges of sexual assault, invitation to sexual touching, and invitation for sexual purpose, both as an adult and as a youth.
Outcome: Although convicted after trial, the trial judge imposed a sentence of only three years, which is at the low end of the sentencing range for sexual offences against children. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Smith - Impaired Driving
On November 18, 2024, Conrad entered Holy Redeemer Parish. He engaged in a brief conversation with the church coordinator before picking up a statue and shaking it. When asked to stop, Conrad started shouting and demonstrating aggressive behavior before ripping an envelope and pushing around chairs. Police later found him sitting in the driver’s seat of a vehicle down the road. Initially, grounds were developed for an apprehension under the Mental Health Act, but it was later determined that his behaviour may have been the result of consuming alcohol, which was detected on his breath. Conrad was arrested for impaired operation of a motor vehicle.
Outcome: Initially, the Crown wanted Conrad to accept a plea to impaired operation, which would have meant an automatic criminal record.  Instead, Conrad was able to resolve his charges for a plea to dangerous driving and a discharge, which meant that he was able to avoid a criminal record. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Harmand
Stephen and his brother, Eric, worked together. One day, there was a workplace altercation between the two, which resulted in Stephen being charged after Eric complained to the police that Stephen had swung his fist at him and glanced his chin. Police interviewed Eric and others who worked at the same location. 
Outcome: After a discussion with the Crown, the defence was able to persuade them to accept a resolution for a peace bond and withdrawal of the criminal charges. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Lebeau - Assault
Jaques and Amanda were in an on and off relationship since February 2010, and have one child in common. In 2024, Amanda made a police report containing historic allegations of domestic violence dating back 14 years, including accusations that Jaques had thrown a coffee table on her and that he had grabbed her by the throat. This resulted in Jaques being charged with assault with a weapon and overcoming resistance by choking. 
Outcome: Although the Crown initially wanted a jail sentence, they agreed, after a discussion with defence counsel, to accept a plea to the lesser charge of assault for a suspended sentence and probation.  This meant Jaques did not serve any jail. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Wan - Assault and Mischief
Cheng and Min married in China 4 years ago and have one child together. Cheng has been living in Canada for 10 years, while Min immigrated approximately one month prior to the incident involved.
On September 3rd, there was a verbal argument in which Min mentioned wanting to move back to China. Cheng hid her passport and cut up her permanent resident card, leading to a charge of mischief.
Approximately 2 weeks later, their child was crying. While looking for a toy in the dark to soothe the child, Min accidentally woke up Cheng, causing him to become upset, grab her by the neck, and push her against the wall. In an effort to defend herself, Min bit Cheng, and he bit her in response. This led to charges of assault strangulation assault causing bodily harm.
Approximately 2 weeks after the second incident, Cheng and Min were in a verbal argument while she was feeding their child. When he became frustrated at her lack of attention to him, Cheng threw a bowl of rice in Min’s direction, causing her to hide in the bathroom with their child and contact police. Cheng was charged with mischief for this incident.
Outcome: Cheng agreed to perform New Directions program upfront. He was a stellar student and received very high grades. The Crown was persuaded to agree to withdraw charges upon his entering into a peace bond.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Hartford - Assault
On February 25th, Karen was at her residence with her ex-husband Charles. At some point, he became upset that their cat was urinating in the basement, causing unpleasant odors, and ended up throwing the cat against the living room wall. He also threatened to kill the cat if it kept urinating in the basement. Karen also reported that the previous August, Charles grabbed her throat and she fell as a result of being pushed against a closet. She further reported physical confrontations that occurred in summer 1994 and August 2007.
As a result of their investigation and discussions with Karen, police found cause to charge Charles with cruelty to animals (unnecessary pain, suffering or injury), uttering threats (injure animal), and three counts of spousal assault.
Outcome: Despite rigorous negotiation, the Crown were stubbornly unwilling to resolve this matter to the satisfaction of Charles. They insisted on a guilty plea or a trial. Charles was dissatisfied that we were unable to obtain the result he wanted and decided to change counsel.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Lacroise - Careless Driving and Assault
On the evening of February 8th, Lanark County OPP received a report of a silver pickup tailgating and brake checking another driver. At one point, Nathan had exited his vehicle, possibly intoxicated, and brandished a hammer. Police later found Sebastien driving in circles in the parking lot of a Home Hardware and arrested. Nathan was charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and assault with a weapon.
Outcome: After rigorous negotiating involving judicial input, we were able to plead guilty to careless driving and assault. Nathan avoided a criminal record. He did some anger management classes and didn’t lose his driving licence at all.  
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Lamore - Assault
On February 3rd, 2025, in the city of Ottawa, Erika was at her residence at 2355 Blackstone Crescent with her husband, Stefan. At approximately 3:00 AM, an argument arose after Stefan accused Erika of infidelity and demanded the password to her cell phone. During the argument, the Stefan struck the victim, causing a small scratch under her left nostril and another on the right side of her eye. Erika fled to the bathroom and locked the door for safety.
Shortly after, Stefan broke the bathroom door frame and forced his way inside. Once inside, he struck Erika in the face with a closed fist, causing a visible swelling ("goose egg") near her left eyebrow and forehead.
At 4:10 AM, the Erika contacted Ottawa Police, reporting that her husband had assaulted her. Officers attended the residence, observed the victim’s injuries, and noted damage to the bathroom door. The victim declined medical attention, refused to sign a medical release, and did not provide a written statement.
At 7:07 AM, Stefan was arrested for assault and mischief and transported to the police cell block. He was later interviewed and provided an inculpatory statement to police. He was charged with the previously mentioned crimes and then released on an undertaking.
Outcome: Stefan was offered and accepted a peace bond. The charges were withdrawn and he was able to go home to his wife and family after a few months of painful separation.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Hamilton - Assault
On January 20th, 2024, in the Township of Greater Madawaska, Sara was at her residence at 877 Flat Road with her husband, Eric. At approximately 10:40 PM, Renfrew OPP were dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance after Sara contacted police stating that her husband had punched and choked her. While on the phone with dispatch, Sara reported that the two had separated during the incident, but Eric was still pacing around the house and could be heard yelling in the background.
Constables Cordron and Morganti were first on scene and met Sara at the door. She informed PC Cordron that she and her husband had been experiencing ongoing marital issues over the past two years. Earlier that evening, following an argument where she told Eric he would need to move out within the week, he “lost it.” Sara stated that Eric pushed her several times, eventually forcing her backwards onto the sofa, where he grabbed her by the neck and held her down. He then slapped her repeatedly on both sides of her face, knocking off her glasses and one of her earrings.
Sara reported that she made multiple attempts to push Eric off before eventually escaping and calling police. Although she stated she was uninjured, she did report pain on the side of her face. Officers observed no visible signs of injury, but noted consistency in her account. Body-worn camera footage captured Eric acknowledging that Sara’s earring was on the sofa next to him, information that matched her statement to police.
Eric was subsequently arrested and charged for domestic assault, contrary to section 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada. He was released on a Form 10 undertaking with conditions.
Outcome: The client chose to plead guilty. He received a conditional discharge and avoided a criminal record.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Baker - Assault
On April 29th, 2023, at the Dover Court Recreation Center in Ottawa, Pamela was attending her third session of the National Lifeguarding Course. The accused, John, watched the session from a second-floor viewing area. Afterward, John texted Pamela to meet him upstairs, where they got into a verbal argument. As Pamela tried to leave, John grabbed her arm but released her, allowing her to leave the building.
On May 6th, 2023, John again attended Rousseau’s session. During the session, he became upset, believing Pamela was talking to another male. He texted her derogatory messages and demanded she meet him upstairs. Fearing for her safety, Pamela tried to leave, but John intercepted her, forcing her to go upstairs. In a dark hallway, John verbally assaulted her, calling her offensive names. He pushed her to the ground, threw her backpack, and continued yelling at her. He then strangled her briefly before releasing her. Pamela fell to the floor, and John ordered her to get up.
They walked past two cleaners, and John ensured Pamela wasn’t visibly upset before they left the building separately.
On November 24th, 2023, John voluntarily attended the Ottawa Police Service headquarters at 474 Elgin Street, where he was arrested by Detective Wilson. John refused to participate in a police interrogation. He was charged with assault, assault by choking, and mischief, and was released on an undertaking with conditions.
Outcome: The client insisted on his innocence and we arranged a trial date. Unfortunately, he was unable to come up with the required funds and we had to end our relationship.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Emily Smith - Impaired Driving
On the evening of February 8th, Emily attended a club on Clarence Street, consuming several alcoholic drinks over the course of the evening. After leaving the club, Emily drove her vehicle northbound until getting stuck in a snowbank in a dead-end street. A witness observed the driving behaviour and called 911.
Upon arriving at the scene, police observed Emily in the driver’s seat. She admitted to having a few drinks. While talking, police noted Emily had slurred speech and glossy eyes, and she was unsteady when stepping out of her vehicle. She was arrested for impaired operation. After being read her rights, she was transported to the police station, where she spoke with duty counsel. She provided two breath samples with readings of .212 and .204.
Emily was charged with operation while impaired, operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration, and dangerous operation.
Result: There weren’t a lot of triable issues in this case, unfortunately. Emily made the difficult decision to plead guilty. She received a fine of $2000 and a one-year driving prohibition. She will be eligible to get her licence back after three further months of suspension so long as she uses a vehicle with the interlock device installed. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Barton - Assault
On December 18, 2024, Liam* was assaulted at the Crazy Horse Bar in Ottawa. While socializing with friends, he was approached and punched in the face by the accused, Kerry Barton, after confirming his name. She was removed by security.
At approximately 11:45 p.m., after the victim stepped outside, James sucker punched him, causing him to fall. James and Randy continued the assault until security intervened. James fled, and Randy was removed by staff.
While Liam was receiving first aid inside the bar, Kerry returned and recorded him with her cellphone.
Kerry was arrested on December 30, 2024, and during a custodial interview, made incriminating statements, admitting to the assault and identifying her co-accused.
As a result, our client was charged with assault, assault causing bodily harm, and conspiracy to commit indictable offence.
Result: The client chose to plead guilty to assault. She was from a good family and was in school. She also worked a multitude of part-time jobs and obtained rave reviews. The Crown sought a criminal record (suspended sentence) while we sought a conditional discharge. She received the latter and avoided a criminal record.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.
* all names have been changed to protect privacy

### R. v. Sharpton - Assault
In the early hours of January 18, 2025, Gary Sharpton* entered a taxi at Ottawa’s Rideau Centre, agreeing to a $20 flat-rate fare. Shortly into the ride, the driver opened his window due to a strong smell of cigarettes and marijuana from Gary, who became verbally aggressive and demanded the window be closed. After the driver refused, he pulled over near the Chateau Laurier, refunded $15, and asked Gary to exit the vehicle.
Gary refused and proceeded to assault the driver by choking and striking him from the back seat. A witness, observed the assault and used his car horn to draw attention. Nearby Ottawa Police responded promptly, separated the parties, and arrested Gary for assault at 01:10 a.m.
Gary was searched, advised of his Rights to Counsel, and remained cooperative. He was released at 02:00 a.m. on an Undertaking, which included a no-contact condition with the victim.
Result: The client had a defence of retrieving his own property. The Crown was not going to accept this and withdraw the charge. So, a trial was going to be required. After discussion over the cost, inexplicably, the client chose to terminate the relationship.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.
* names have been changed to protect privacy

### R. v. Lucy Stone – Theft Under $5000
At approximately 11:45am on May 4th, Hello Fresh delivered a food box for building resident Sharon Ashton. Per Sharon’s instructions, the box was left in the building’s vestibule area. Roughly 10 minutes later, Lucy Stone entered the building. She was then seen on surveillance entering the building lobby with the package address to Sharon. One minute later, Lucy entered the elevator with the package and returned to her unit.
After Hello Fresh confirmed only one package was delivered to the building, and video surveillance was obtained, Lucy was charged with one count of theft under $5000, and released on an undertaking.
Result: While it was not possible to determine the addressee on the package, the objective improbability that it was another person’s package was irresistible. Therefore, resolution was the focus. Ultimately, the Crown agreed to divert the matter (withdrew the charge after doing some community service). Lucy avoided a guilty plea and a criminal record. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Mendez – Domestic Assault
Shortly after 1am on July 14th, military police in Petawawa received a call regarding a domestic dispute involving Sandra and Samuel. Upon arriving at the scene, MP’s interviewed the couple separately. It was determined that during the night, Samuel had moved from the couple’s shared bed to a living room couch. Sandra followed to speak with him but received no response. Upon returning to the bedroom, Sandra began sending Samuel texts to clarify why he left the bedroom. This irritated Samuel, who began yelling and threw a glass, then pushed Sandra in a further altercation. A later interview revealed that a television remote control was also broken during the incident.
Samuel was arrested and charged with assault and two counts of mischief under $5000.
Result: The criminal process took many months and the two spouses were forcedly separated during this time. Both wanted to resume their relationship. Sandra had provided a recanting affidavit calling into question her original allegation. The Crown, recognizing weakness in its case, agreed to an 810 peace bond for Mr. Mendez, but only after we filed a motion to vary the bail terms (with a view to getting the spouses back living together while the case continued). Upon entering the peace bond, the criminal charges against Mr. Mendez were withdrawn.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Johnson – Assault
Late in the evening of July 31st, Maybel Hinchley was with Logan Johnson in the garage of his parents’ home. After having consumed marijuana with Logan, Maybel was laying on the bed when Logan took her face in his hands and kissed her on the lips. When told she was leaving, Logan proceeded to push her back onto the bed, straddled over her body, and pinned her arms above her head. Only after Maybel demanded he get off her did Logan let up some of his weight. She had to push him out of the way before being allowed to leave. Several months later the incident was reported to police.
Result: This matter went to trial after all attempts to negotiate a resolution failed. Logan was acquitted of assault in large part because Ms. Hinchley had testified that the reason she came forward was to “have the back” of the complainant in Logan’s other file. The judge was concerned about possible collusion since there were no other corroborating features of the complainant’s testimony.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Johnson – Sexual Assault, Harassment
On April 29th, OPP received a call from a local high school. The vice principal indicated that a female student had reported allegations of inappropriate touching by a male student. PC Andreyevik and his colleague Cara Wilkes were dispatched to speak with the complainant, Cindy Smith. On May 1st, Cindy provided a video statement, describing her relationship with the accused as initially wanting to only be friends, but that the prior year Logan had made comments that led her to believe he wanted to be more than friends.
Cindy indicated that at the beginning of their Grade 10 year, while in shop class, Logan placed both hands on her hips. Several weeks later in the same class, Logan touched her thigh up to her midsection, then hooked on to her underwear. Multiple other incidents of unwanted touching were described throughout the video statement.
As a result of the investigation, Logan was charged with one count of sexual assault on a person under 16 years of age, and one count of criminal harassment.
Result: After negotiation with the Crown, it was agreed that since he was a youth, it would be of benefit to focus on his rehabilitation rather than punishment. To that end, Logan engaged in counselling, changed schools, and ultimately acknowledged some touching but not for a sexual purpose. He entered a guilty plea to assault and was given probation as a sentence. While not a spectacular result, it was a good compromise.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Lang – Driving while suspended
On the afternoon of April 29th, Cst. Jerry Hamm was operating a police vehicle equipped with an automatic licence plate reader (ALPR). Cst. Hamm received an alert that a passing vehicle had a registered owner with a suspended licence. The vehicle, being driven by Scott, was pulled over for further investigation. Further review found Scott was suspended since July 2022 due to unpaid fines, and the provided vehicle insurance was expired. The vehicle was also observed to have a window tint that obscured the interior of the vehicle.
Scott was issued a Summons for driving while under suspension, operating a motor vehicle without insurance, and colour coating obscuring interior.
Result: Scott revealed that he is currently unemployed and struggling to pay for various financial obligations. As a result, he was unable to pay for insurance and fines. After brief arguments in court, his fines were reduced from $11,000 to $3,000.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Harris – Stunt driving
On May 25th, Cst. Cunningham was working general patrol when he observed a vehicle driving at what he estimated to be 100km/h in a 60km/h zone. Upon turning on his front radar, the vehicle was confirmed to driving at a speed of 105km/h. A traffic stop was performed, and the driver was confirmed as Samantha Harris via a driver’s licence, which was seized on scene and the vehicle impounded for 14 days. Samantha was charged with Operate motor vehicle race/stunt/wager.
Result: Samantha is a working professional in the film industry and had unusually long and exhausting hours that day. She was looking at a fine in the range of $2,000-$10,000 along with a mandatory one year suspension of her driving license. Samantha had no prior record and regretted her actions. She wanted to retain her ability to drive as it could severely affect her livelihood and career.
We were subsequently able to get the offence reduced to a Speeding offence of 35 above, instead of the original 45 above (stunt) after some persuasion of the Crown.
Samantha pled guilty and was sentenced to pay a fine of $245 along with an Online Defensive Driving Course completion mandate and no suspensions.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Smith – Driving while suspended
On June 20th, Cst. Gobraeil was on patrol when he received notification from his Licence Plate Reader that the owner of a Lamborghini was suspended. On this basis, he conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle. The driver identified himself with a driver’s licence as Thomas, the vehicle’s registered owner. The status of the driver’s licence was confirmed, and Thomas was charged with driving under suspension.
Result: Thomas advised that he was not in receipt of the suspension notice, as it was delivered to a previous residence that had been sold. He had since gotten his license reinstated. He was looking at a mandatory 6 month license suspension. Thomas required a vehicle to facilitate shared parenting duties.
After appraising the Crown of the situation, a settlement was reached whereby the Crown agreed to drop the charge subject to production of the reinstated License. The matter resolved within a few months. No fines or suspension were imposed.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Sanchez – Domestic Assault
Francisco and Elena had been in a relationship for approximately 14 years. They had two children each from previous relationships, and no previous interactions with police.
Just after 11pm on June 29th, Francisco and Elena were involved in a heated dispute, during which Francisco slapped Elena in the face with his hand. Elena also provided police with a statement that she had slapped Francisco prior to being assaulted.
Francisco was arrested and released on an Undertaking, with the condition to have no contact with Elena or attend her residence.
Result: Francisco was a professional and concerned about the possibility of a criminal record but also was eager to avoid a trial and the unwanted stress, cost, risk and possible publicity. We negotiated a withdrawal of the assault charge upon his entering into an 810 peace bond.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Wang – Mischief, Assault, Forcible Confinement
Sam and Malia were married, with a 4 month old baby. On one evening, Malia began arguing with Sam for taking too long in the bathroom, as it was their infant’s scheduled bath time. When she kicked the bathroom door out of frustration, Sam opened the door to continue yelling at her before breaking the door by kicking it.
As Malia attempted to leave the nursery after placing the baby in the crib, Sam shoved her, causing her to fall and hit her head on the ground. Sam continued to push her as she attempted to get up. He then made efforts to prevent Malia from calling 911 and refused to let her leave the bedroom she had fled to.
After Malia had contacted a friend, Sam allowed her to leave the apartment, but without her phone and after cutting up her credit card. She proceeded to knock on the door across the hallway, at which point Sam pulled her back into their residence.
Allowed to leave a second time, Malia asked a stranger at the front of the building to borrow their phone in order to contact her mother, who arrived shortly afterwards to assist with extricating the baby. When knocks on the door went unanswered, police were contacted again.
When police arrived, they ensured the wellbeing of the baby before arresting Sam.
Result: Sam was a soon-to-be professional. He was charged with assault, forcible confinement, and mischief under $5,000. After careful consideration, a plea bargain was negotiated whereby he could plead to assault and mischief. He pleaded guilty at one appearance and adjourned sentencing so he could complete the local domestic violence program. Upon receipt of the completion report, it was clear he had really applied himself to the program and as such was a lower risk to re-offend. He avoided a criminal record and received a conditional discharge.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Murphy – Assault with a Weapon, Attempt to Obstruct Justice
In August 2021, a massive group of teenagers converged for a planned fight. This was to settle a score from a previous fight. Larry and his employee came outside to intercede. Larry had a large dog on a leash that was barking and acting aggressively. The co-accused had a knife and ending up stabbing one of the youths. After the victim was taken to hospital, Larry repeatedly attempted to encourage witnesses to lie about what happened.
Larry was subsequently charged with assault with a weapon and attempt to obstruct justice.
Result: After much negotiation over the facts, it was agreed that Larry would take responsibility for only the aftermath and encouraging witnesses to lie. He pleaded guilty to obstructing justice. The assault with a weapon charge was withdrawn. At the sentencing hearing for obstruction, the Crown sought a six-month jail sentence. The judge was persuaded that Larry did not need to go to jail but serve the sentence on strict house arrest conditions (allowing him to continue working). 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Saunders – Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking
In early March 2021, the JIT received credible information of a large amount of marijuana being transported to the district of Kawenoke. During a planned take-down operation, Mark was observed driving one of the target vehicles suspected to be transporting the marijuana, while his co-accused was driving the second target vehicle. When both vehicles were backed up to the residence and the co-accused was inside, the takedown was executed. Mark and the co-accused were arrested without incident or resistance, and both were charged with possession of marihuana for the purpose of distribution. The police located several hundred pounds of cultivated marijuana in Mark’s vehicle and almost that amount in the co-accused’s vehicle.
Result: Mark pleaded guilty to possession of marijuana under the Cannabis Act. He was a Mohawk living in Akwesasne. As such, the Gladue principles applied to his sentencing hearing. He had been raised by drug traffickers and witnessed countless displays of abuse throughout his childhood. He was now a father and worked as a cleaner. The Crown had sought a one-year to eighteen month jail sentence. The judge, recognizing his guilty plea and aboriginal heritage, imposed a conditional sentence (house arrest) for almost two years. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Aarons – Sexual Assault, Criminal Harassment
David and Sarah were in a relationship for 16 months. The relationship ended when Sara discovered that Daniel had cheated on her. After repeated attempts by David to communicate, including blaming her for his thoughts of self-harm, Sarah discussed the matter with her mother, and later provided a police statement regarding incidents of sexual assault throughout the relationship, including unwanted touching and being pressured into performing oral sex. After the relationship ended, David continued to send Sarah messages by phone and social media, with all means of communication eventually being blocked by Sarah. 
In January 2023, David was charged with three counts of sexual assault and one charge of criminal harassment – repeated communication.
Result: David was a youth. After some negotiation, we offered a guilty plea to criminal harassment in exchange for a withdrawal of the sexual assault counts. The Crown agreed. He did some counselling and ultimately, we had a joint position for a period of probation. The judge agreed with the joint position.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Conners – Breach Probation for POA Summons
In January 2022, Jared became subject to a probation order, with a condition to not operate a vehicle unless it was equipped with a functioning interlock device. In early March 2022, police initiated a questionable traffic stop of a vehicle where the driver was suspected of being impaired. The driver of that vehicle, Jared, was found to not be impaired, but was found to be breaching his probation order, as the vehicle he was driving lacked the interlock device. He was subsequently charged with breach of probation and served a summons to appear in POA court.
Result: Jared completed community service hours and the Crown withdrew the breach of probation charge.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Griffen – Breach of Probation
In September 2021, while representing himself, Jon was convicted of charges under the CDSA (drug offence), for which he received a suspended sentence (criminal record) and 12 months supervised probation. The probation officer then referred Jon to the Salvation Army Community Service Order Program to complete 75 volunteer hours. Of this, only 11.25 volunteer hours were completed. Jon was subsequently charged with failure to comply with probation.
Result: After negotiations with the Crown Attorney, we arranged it so that Jon was able to complete the hours in exchange for a withdrawal of the breach of probation charge.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Santos – Impaired
Frank was driving his pickup truck in the early morning hours of February 26, 2023, in the City of Ottawa. While in the drive-through of a McDonald’s on Innes Road, he rear-ended another vehicle ahead of him. The driver of the other vehicle got out and observed Frank to have red eyes and limited responses. The driver then got back in his vehicle and contacted police to report the accident and his suspicion that Frank was intoxicated.
When police arrived 20 minutes later, Frank’s vehicle was still in the drive-through. The police officer asked Frank to pull to the side. Frank was interviewed and denied hitting the other vehicle, denied any alcohol or drug consumption, and maintained that he was instead heading home after attending a concert. The police officer confirmed contact between the two vehicles and noted the odour of alcohol on Frank’s breath. A roadside breath test was administered, and Frank cooperated but registered a fail (blew over). Frank was arrested for impaired driving and 80 and over. Approximately two hours later at the police station, a breath sample was provided, registering a reading of 150mgs/100ml, nearly twice the legal limit.
Result: Frank decided to enter a guilty plea. He plead guilty to the impaired driving count. He received a criminal record, the minimum fine of $1,500 plus victim surcharges, and a twelve-month driving prohibition. Because Frank lives in Ontario and was a first offender, he benefitted from MTO’s “Stream A”, meaning he could legally drive within the twelve-month prohibition by having the interlock device installed in his car (after three further months of suspension). 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Stevenson
On the afternoon of February 25th, Larry and his common law spouse Stacey met with her ex-husband Tom, in order to exchange their daughter as part of a shared custody arrangement. During this meeting, a heated argument occurred between Larry and Tom, leading to pushing and eventually escalating to both males fighting on the ground. No visible injuries were observed by police, but Tom did complain of back pain. The day prior to the incident, Tom sent an email to Stacey saying he was going to “confront” Larry. As a result of the fight, Larry was charged with assault. 
Result: Tom tried repeatedly to convince the Crown to upgrade the charges to assault causing bodily harm, citing some injury from the incident (with mild medical confirmation). The client maintained his innocence despite acknowledging some less than stellar actions on the day of. The Crown was willing to withdraw the charge but wanted Larry to enter into an 810 peace bond. Larry was unwilling to agree to any court order indicating wrongdoing as Tom was frequently vindictive and spiteful and would use any such order in other legal fora. 
The Crown tried to get Larry to agree to a common law peace bond and he again declined. By declining, he was fully prepared to set a trial and defend himself in court (with all of its costs and risks). Ultimately left with no other legitimate choice, the Crown eventually stayed the charge.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Karlov – Drug Trafficking – Youth
In March 2021, the Street Crimes Unit of Ottawa Police Services was investigating a suspected drug trafficker. On two separate occasions, Quentin was with the target suspect when police purchased a total of 3.9g of Fentanyl. On a third occasion, in May 2021, Quentin was again with the target suspect when police purchased 0.9g of cocaine. At this time, Quentin and the target were arrested, and both were charged with trafficking of a Controlled Schedule I substance, and possessing proceeds obtained by crime under $5000. When the police seized Quentin’s phone, they called the phone of the main suspect and it rang on Quentin’s phone, leading to an inference that he was part of the trafficking.
Result: Charges were withdrawn. After many discussions with the Federal Crown, they were unwilling to simply withdraw the charges. We had to set a trial date. About one week before the trial was due to begin, the Crown agreed to the proposal that the Defence had made at the outset. Quentin did some community service, and the charges were withdrawn. The reason was because it couldn’t be proven that his participation during the transactions was any more than a viewer. He didn’t handle money, utter any threats, or handle any drugs. 
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Freezen
In the early morning of July 3, 2022, Sgt. Muniz was patrolling the area of Terry Fox Drive and Highway 417 when he observed a vehicle with a loud and distinctive exhaust, driving in excess of 120km/h in a 60km/h zone. The vehicle was also observed changing lanes quickly and without warning, barely avoiding a collision with a truck. Sgt. Muniz activated his emergency lights to initiate a traffic stop, but the vehicle instead accelerated away. Pursuit was terminated when speeds approached 180km/h. Many officers were notified of the vehicle and other officers engaged in pursuit. The officers attempted by committee to maintain contact with the vehicle but there were times when sight was lost.
A short time later, the vehicle was located, with Larry crouching in the driver seat, attempting to avoid detection. During the arrest, Larry attempted to resist the application of hand restraints. The odors of alcohol and burnt cannabis were detected, and Larry was observed to have red and bloodshot eyes. Larry was injured during the arrest.
Larry was subsequently charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs, and flight from a peace officer.
Result: After much discussion about the continuity of whether they even had the right car, and the injuries suffered, the Crown were unwilling to simply withdraw the charges or allow him to plead guilty to the dangerous operation count (that had no minimum sentence). The client chose to plead guilty but had to accept a criminal record and 12 month driving prohibition. Because the charge was impairment by drug, Larry will not be able to shorten the driving prohibition with an interlock machine installed in his car.
He received a $3,000 fine, criminal record. 12 month driving prohibition.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R.v. Marsh – Breach of Probation
On May 11, 2022, Gatineau police were patrolling a business area when they noticed a man urinating in public. Deciding to investigate, the police soon lost sight of the man, but spoke with some people they thought were with him. These people stated they did not know the individual but were told by him that he could not be seen by police. Soon after, the individual was located at the back of the property, who identified himself as Larry, who commented that his probation officer had advised his previous sentence was over. Further investigation showed that Larry was still subject to a court order. Larry was arrested, then released on a Promise to Appear.
Result: Larry entered a guilty plea and received a $500 fine. The sentence he received was tolerable to him considering he already had a criminal record and was not worth contesting.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Lamarche – Quebec Sexual Assault
Geoff and Leslie had been in a relationship for some time when she had contacted police to make a complaint against Geoff. When police arrived, they found Leslie to be extremely emotional and panicked, and it took several hours for the police to obtain a statement from Isabelle. During the statement, Leslie made multiple allegations against Geoff, including two sexual assaults while she slept, mandatory sex on schedule, and Geoff threatening suicide to extract compliance. At times, Geoff would throw and break objects, and sometimes have blackouts where he would hit himself or walls. Despite all of this, Leslie saw herself as Geoff’s rescuer.
As a result of the police investigation of Leslie’s complaint, Geoff was charged with numerous offences including sexual assault, criminal harassment, assault, forcible confinement.
Result: Geoff entered guilty pleas to some offences on the condition the sexual assaults be withdrawn. He received a jail sentence, which was high for a first-time offender. Nevertheless, it avoided a trial and any lengthy jail sentence if he had been found guilty of the sexual assault counts.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Warren – 810 Hearing
In April 2021, Sean had been sentenced to a 90 day intermittent custodial sentence, followed by a 12 month conditional sentence for assault causing bodily harm and breach of recognizance regarding his ex-partner Sara.
At some point afterward, Sara had moved to London, Ontario. However, still fearing Sean, Sara had filed in the London court for an 810 peace bond against Dustin. An 810 peace bond hearing was scheduled for September 9, 2022.
Result: Sean agreed to voluntarily enter into the peace bond, rather than drive to London from Ottawa to contest it.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Morris – Domestic assault, mischief
Jenna had been in a long term relationship with the complainant, Eric. On the evening of August 2nd, Eric and Jenna got into an argument regarding her alcohol consumption. After advising Jenna that he wanted to end the relationship, Eric proceeded to bed in the hopes she would calm down. Jenna instead followed, yelling, and pushing Eric while he was on the bed. Eventually Eric was able to remove her from the room and lock the door. During the next 10 minutes, as Eric’s youngest adult son called police, Kelley used a hammer to bang on the door. When police arrived, they found Jenna with obvious signs of intoxication.
Results: The criminal charges were withdrawn upon Jenna entering into a peace bond (restraining order). She avoided a criminal record and did not have to plead guilty.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Rasken – Drug Trafficking, Possession of stolen property over $5,000
In September 2020, OPP were conducting a RIDE program in the village of Alfred. James was the driver of a vehicle stopped by police. When an open bottle of beer was observed in the console between the driver and passenger, police conducted a further search of the vehicle occupants. While searching the vehicle, officers were advised the vehicle had been reported stolen two weeks prior. Inside the vehicle, officers found over $3700 in cash, several cell phones, cannabis, ketamine, psilocybin, and a prohibited butterfly knife. 
James and the passenger were charged with multiple drug possession related offences and occupant of a motor vehicle knowing there was a prohibited or restricted weapon.
Results: After multiple court appearances and discussions with the Crown, the co-accused passenger accepted responsibility, and the charges against James were withdrawn.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Brooke – Sexual Assault, Sexual Interference
In 2002, while still a youth, Shane was living with his parents and the victim, his younger sister Rebecca. She alleged Shane first began to sexually assault her when she was six years old. Incidents were infrequent but would occur until Shane left home in 2008 for university. Shane was initially charged as both an adult, and under the YCJA.
Results: A trial proceeded solely on the youth charges. Shane testified in his own defence, acknowledging the touching but insisting that he was under 12 years old at the relevant time, meaning he could not be found guilty in law. At the conclusion of the trial, Shane was acquitted, in large part because the complainant could not be certain of the years the conduct took place.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Sharpe – DUI, impaired driving
In July 2021, an SUV was involved in a single vehicle collision with a metal causeway. Upon arriving at the scene, police interacted with Gerald, who was observed to have slurred speech, a lack of concentration, and had a hard time focusing. Based on this, the officer had reason to believe that Gerald was impaired. 
After being read his rights and transported to custody, Gerald spoke with his lawyer. Approximately 90 minutes after the initial call to police, a breath test was administered and provided a reading of .210. After attending the hospital at his own request, Gerald was charged with impaired over 80, and released on an undertaking.
Results: Gerald entered a guilty plea. A $3,000 fine was imposed, plus a $900 Victim Fine Surcharge and a 1 year driving prohibition.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Wilson – Criminal Harassment, Assault, Mischief under $5,000
Cassie was in an on-again off-again relationship with John, a police officer with the OPP. The incidents occurred over the course of several years. 
During their relationship, John would communicate with other women and this would lead to jealous behaviour on the accused’s part. In 2012, she threw a bowl of salad at him, missing and damaging a television (mischief, assault with a weapon). In 2013, she pushed John during an argument (assault). In a separate 2013 incident, she threw a laundry hamper at John after seeing him talking with another female (assault with a weapon). In March 2015, Cassie punched John after seeing text messages to other females on his phone (assault), as well as pointing a knife at John (assault with a weapon), before cutting a porch screen mesh and stabbing the knife into a wall (mischief x2). Over the course of the relationship and after, Cassie was also known to attend John’s residence without him being present and proceeding to call him at work (criminal harassment). She was also later charged with violating a publication ban involving charges that John had for sexually assaulting Cassie’s son.
Results: Cassie entered a guilty plea to a few of the incidences. The publication ban charge was withdrawn. The Crown wanted her to have a criminal record. The defence argued for a conditional discharge, which she received along with 15 months’ probation. She avoided a criminal record. She is to have no contact with John or his wife or family, complete the PARS program, pay $318 restitution within 9 months, and is subject to a 109 order.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Selim – Assault, Utter threat to Cause Death
Ehud and Karen have been in a common-law relationship for approximately two years.
On February 19th, Ehud and Karen got into an argument over a gaming remote control. Karen attempted to get up and leave multiple times, but each time was pushed down. At one point, Ehud was on top of Karen, holding her down. At some point, Ehud made a verbal threat about killing Karen and himself.
A neighbour contacted police after noticing Karen outside in her nightgown, yelling for help.
Ehud was arrested and charged with assault and uttering a threat to cause death.
Result: After discussions with the Crown, the charges resolved on a section 810 peace bond.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Shirley – Assault
Sarah and Nick were home on a late November afternoon. Nick was helping Sarah during a frantic search for Xanax pills and cocaine that she had lost. Sarah believed that Nick had stolen the pills and cocaine.
Nearing the bathroom, Sarah grabbed Nick’s shirt collar, scratching at his neck and face, causing scratches on his cheek. Nick grabbed Sarah to stop the assault, and then called 911.
After police arrived and investigated, Sarah was arrested and charged with assault. While being escorted from the building, Sarah kicked the arresting officer’s left leg, causing redness and slight bruising.
Result: Sarah plead guilty to the assault charge. She received a conditional discharge and 12 months probation.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Carson – Impaired, Careless driving
Late on a March evening, police were stopped at a red light waiting to turn, when Steve drove past their vehicle at an excessive rate of speed, then overtook a small sedan using the oncoming lane of traffic. When stopped, Steve was advised of the reason for the stop, and was asked for his license, ownership and insurance. While speaking with Steve, the officer noticed a strong smell of alcohol. Steve voluntarily provided a breath sample, which registered a fail on the roadside screening device. Approximately an hour later, two further breath tests were performed at the police station. Both tests, a half hour apart, registered a blood alcohol content nearly double the legal limit.
Steve was charged with Operation while impaired.
Result: Steve plead guilty to impaired over 80. He received a $150 fine and a 12 month driving prohibition.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting

### R. v. Parson – Assault
Alice and Dan were in a common law relationship. On a summer evening, Dan was in his room getting changed when Alice threw a curtain rod at his back, with part hitting his lower leg. Alice then proceeded to punch Dan on the face, causing severe bruising. Alice then took Dan’s keys and threw him out of their shared home. While waiting for friends in a parked vehicle, Alice proceeded to punch Dan several more times.
Alice was charged with assault with a weapon and two counts of assault.
Resolution: After entering into an 810 peace bond, all charges were withdrawn.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Browning – Uttering threats/death or bodily harm
Adam and Jen met in 2002, married in 2007, and separated in 2019. They have 3 children together. During the relationship, Adam was known to be bi-polar and suffer from addiction, and to also self-medicate at times.
In May 2021, a synagogue was holding a live stream religious service as a result of COVID restrictions. While reading comments from members, the Rabbi’s wife noted several concerning comments from Adam. Screenshots of the comments were sent to Jen, and viewed as threats against her parents. Jen reported the threats to police, and Adam was charged with uttering threats.
Result: After several court appearances, Adam agreed to a section 810 peace bond, and the utter threats charge was withdrawn.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting.

### R. v. Brean – Fraud Over
In September 2019, a realty business located in Etobicoke had mailed out a commission cheque. When the intended recipient reached out advising that the cheque was never received, it was noticed that the cheque had already been cashed. A complaint was filed with Toronto Police. An investigation discovered a second cheque had been cashed, and surveillance showed Carla depositing the first cheque.
Carla was charged with fraud over $5000, utter forged document, and possess proceeds of property or thing obtained by crime.
Resolution: Carla plead guilty to fraud under $5000. She received a suspended sentence plus 12 months non reporting probation. The charges of utter forged documents and possess proceeds of crime were withdrawn.
If you have been charged with an offence and would like to speak to a lawyer about your rights, the Armoured Suits offer a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer all your questions. Contact us by phone at 613-233-0008 or e-mail at yourteam@armouredsuits.ca to schedule your meeting

### R. v. Deshore
Aaron was completing some last minute Christmas shopping. On the drive home from the store, he was stopped by police for suspected driving while intoxicated. During the stop, several attempts were made by the officer to obtain a breath sample. All attempts failed. Aaron was charged with failure to provide a breath sample.
Result: During a one day trial, it was argued that Aaron was compliant, and made good-faith efforts to provide a breath sample. The Crown was unable to demonstrate otherwise. As a result, Aaron was acquitted.
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### R. v. Smith - Assault
Chuck and the victim, Aaron, had been friends for approximately 20 years, but had a falling out in the last year. While at a Walmart shopping for an iRobot, Chuck noticed Aaron approaching the checkouts with his girlfriend. During the confrontation, Aaron was grabbed by the neck, which left red marks. Once police arrived, the pair were separated. Chuck was charged with assault.
Result: After a one day trial, Chuck was acquitted on the assault charge.
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### R. v. Grayson - Liquor Licence
Brian is the owner of a local restaurant. During a busy December evening, the local minors hockey team attended the restaurant for a celebration. At some point, a complaint involving underage drinking was made to the Liquor Licensing Board. During an investigation, the Board’s investigator spoke with restaurant employees and team members in attendance. It was determined that alcohol was consumed by at least two underage players, and that no effort was made to ensure they were of legal age to purchase or consume alcohol.
Result: The underage drinking in the restaurant was not disputed. In discussions with the Licencing Board, it was agreed that the restaurant would receive a 30 day suspension of its liquor license, with the suspension to be in effect during the slower business month of January.
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### R. v. Walsh - Sexual Assault et al
In January 2021, Gary was residing with his ex-partner Natasha, who was pregnant by her new partner Drew. One early morning, Natasha was in bed adjusting a walking boot on her leg, when Gary entered and exposed himself. When confronted, Gary pushed Natasha back on the bed, pulled down her pants, penetrated her and eventually ejaculated. A few minutes later, Gary left the residence, taking Natasha’s purse with him.
After 9:30am, Drew went searching for Gary. After finding Gary, Drew demanded the return of Natasha’s purse. An altercation ensued with threats being made, during which 911 was called. Gary followed in his vehicle as Drew and Natasha attempted to drive to the nearest OPP detachment.
After a police investigation of events, Gary was eventually charged with sexual assault, spousal assault, dangerous operation of a vehicle, theft, uttering threats, and criminal harassment (threatening conduct).
Result: After a period of discussions with the Crown, the charges were resolved on a peace bond.
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### R. v. Brown - Harrassing Telecommunications
In September 2020, Jessica ended a one month relationship with Mark. Over the next several months, Jessica would receive multiple phone calls and text messages from several different phone numbers, including messages sent to a coworker, which she suspected were all from Mark. She made clear to Mark that the attempts to communicate were unwelcome.
In March 2021, Jessica contacted Ottawa Police to report an escalation in the attempts to communicate. During an investigation, Mark was advised by police to cease all attempts to directly or indirectly communicate with Jessica. When Mark continued his attempts at communication, he was eventually charged with two counts of harassment by means of repeated telecommunication.
Result: After discussions with the Crown, Mark plead guilty, receiving 2 years probation and avoided a criminal record.

### R. v. Merrick - Assault
Christine and Barry have been married for 8 years, and have 4 children together. In September 2021, Barry was preparing a presentation for work when he took a break to get a cup of coffee. Upset that he did not use a coaster, Christine dumped out the coffee, upsetting Barry. Barry then prepared a bowl of cereal, leading to an argument over milk. In an ensuing fight over the computer, Christine tossed a cell phone at Barry, which struck him in the head. While Barry prepared to leave, Christine continued to strike Barry on the face and back. Christine was charged with assault.
Result: After discussions with the Crown, the issue was resolved on a peace bond.
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### R. v. Lornas - Sexual Assault
Derek and Sharon have a young daughter together. At one time, a relative was assisting to care for the daughter, Sarah. For a brief period, this relative had sole care and custody of Sarah. It was at this time that allegations first began to be made against Derek. An investigation involving police and Children’s Aid began, and eventually Derek was charged with sexual assault and molestation.
Result: After a motion for CAS records, and a seven day trial, Derek was acquitted on all charges.
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### R. v. Harrison
Charlie and Susan were in a relationship and living together. On an August afternoon, they were walking together when they began to argue about trust issues in their relationship. Upon returning home, Susan gave Charlie the house key to open the door. Still angry after opening the door, Charlie broke the key in the lock, resulting in both the key and lock having to be replaced. The argument continued inside the
home, leading Susan to call her sister, who in turn called police. After a conversation with both parties, police charged Charlie with mischief under $5000.
Result: As part of a deal, Charlie was expected to complete an anger management course. Upon successfully completing the course, the charge against Charlie was withdrawn.
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### R. v. Norton
The complainant, Ashley, had recently moved to the area. On a late July afternoon, she was smoking when Tom approached her while walking his dogs. After a brief conversation, Tom offered to show Ashley around town, which was accepted. After taking his dogs to his nearby home, Tom returned with his vehicle. During the drive, Tom is alleged to have inappropriately touched Ashley and offer money for sex. After multiple refusals, Tom returned to the original meeting point to drop off Ashley, who contacted police to file a complaint. Tom was charged with sexual assault.
Result: Ashley testified during a two day trial, during which issues regarding the reliability of her testimony were raised. Ultimately, Tom was acquitted.
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### R. v. Clemens
Nancy was in a relationship with Claire. After the relationship ended, Nancy continued sending Facebook friend requests and email money transfers. The complainant and police advised Nancy on numerous occasions to cease all communication with Claire, both directly and indirectly. As the communication continued, Nancy was eventually charged with criminal harassment.
Result: After discussions with the Crown, Nancy plead guilty and received a conditional discharge.
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### R. v. Whalen
Chris entered a bank branch in order to open a new account. During the process, documents were provided which bank agents suspected were fraudulent. Upon further investigation, police determined that the driver’s licence and other provided documents were fraudulent, as Chris’s name did not match that on the documents. Chris was charged with fraud/utter forged documents.
Result: Chris entered a guilty plea, and received a suspended sentence plus 2 yrs probation.
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### R. v. Lawrence
Brian was in a relationship with Shannon. On a late January morning, Shannon visited Brian’s residence in order to obtain keys to a vehicle registered in her name. At some point in their interaction, Brian ripped documentation from Shannon’s grasp and pushed her to the ground with his forearm. As a result, Brian was charged with assault.
Result: After a period of discussions with the Crown, it was agreed that Brian would enter a peace bond, and the charges would be stayed.
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### R. v. Darrens
Kevin was in the midst of a divorce from his wife, Karen. During a verbal argument, Kevin is alleged to have pushed Karen down a set of stairs while she held their infant son, resulting in a domestic assault charge. During the police investigation, Karen also brought forward allegations of previous sexual assaults committed by Kevin, resulting in additional charges.
Result: During a four day trial, issues regarding Karen’s credibility were raised. Due to concerns regarding Karen’s credibility and testimony, Kevin was acquitted.
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### R. v. Alesh
Mohammed was in his home, drinking with a friend. Both were intoxicated at the time an argument began between them. During an ensuing scuffle, Mohammed grabbed the victim’s shirt, and the victim was stabbed with a kitchen knife. Paramedics were called to attend to the victim’s injuries. Mohammed was charged with aggravated assault.
Result: During both the police investigation and the four day trial, the victim admitted that Mohammed had acted in self defence. As a result of this testimony, Mohammed was acquitted.

### Historical Indecent Assault Charge - R. v. Smith
Sexual Assault
Facts: Frank is a 69 year old with no criminal record. During the early 1970’s, he was living in a small town, and would occasionally have visits from out-of-town family. On three separate occasions between 1970 and 1976, his sister and niece visited. On these visits, it was alleged that Frank inappropriately touched his then 4 or 9 year old niece’s vagina. The incidents were brought to the attention of her mother and other family members at the time, and again in the 1990’s. Frank repeatedly denied the incidents occurred. The now adult accuser, living in western Canada, brought the allegations forward again in 2018, and Frank was charged with indecent assault.
Results:
During the course of a 4 day trial, various witnesses testified, including the complainant and Frank. The credibility of Frank, the complainant and other witnesses was not questioned by the judge. However, it was found that the Crown had failed to meet the burden of proof required of them. Frank was ultimately acquitted on all charges.
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Excerpt: Derek was charged with assault. He had no prior criminal record and no further offences. Derek participated in the Collaborative Justice Project...

### Assault - R. v. McLean
Assault
Facts: In December 2016, after an evening with friends, Derek was picked up by the Complainant as a taxi fare in the area of Bank and Fifth. Upon arriving at Derek’s home, there was a physical altercation, during which the Complainant was punched in the face and hands. During the course of the altercation, Derek’s wife sought to lead him into their home. When police arrived, they noted the smell of alcohol on Derek’s breath.
Derek was charged with assault. He had no prior criminal record and no further offences. Derek participated in the Collaborative Justice Project, during which both sides exchanged their views on the incident. Derek wrote a letter of apology to the Complainant, which was accepted. He also received letters of support from friends and his employer.
Results:
Derek entered a guilty plea, expressing remorse and taking responsibility for his actions. Although assaulting a transport worker is an aggravating circumstance, Derek received a 12-month conditional discharge, has to report to a probation officer, is to have no contact with the victim or the victim’s family, and pay a $100 victim surcharge.
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Excerpt: Derek was charged with assault. He had no prior criminal record and no further offences. Derek participated in the Collaborative Justice Project...

### Domestic Mischief – R. v. Hickey
Domestic Mischief
Facts: Joey and Pamela were in a relationship for one year, with children from previous relationships. A verbal argument occurred regarding the care of their dogs. As the argument escalated, Joey became upset, overturning a coffee table and playpen, as well as causing damage to a wall and side table.
He was charged with one count of mischief under $5000 and released on a promise to appear.
Results: Joey entered a plea of guilty, agreeing to contact with consent and payment of restitution to Pamela.
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### Domestic Assault - R. v. Brighton
Domestic Assault
Facts: Alfred and Janice have been married for approximately 3 years and have a young child together.  The two had an altercation over several issues including stolen earphones. The argument escalated and Janice revealed that she knew Alfred had frequented bi-sexual websites. She uttered a homophobic slur repeatedly.
This enraged Alfred. He body-checked Janice into the wall and smashed a dishrack full of baby bottles onto the floor. He then threw some of them at Janice. When she used the phone to call for help he ripped the cord from the wall and smashed the phone as well, rendering it inoperable. Following a lull in the argument he smashed her into another wall and pushed her over a baby gate, which caused her to fall. After she stood up he placed her in a headlock until she was able to escape.
Alfred was arrested and subsequently charged with assault and mischief under $5,000.
Results: After a trial, Alfred was acquitted of assault and of breaking the dish rack but found guilty of breaking the phone. Client received a conditional discharge and avoided a criminal record.
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### Break and Enter and Assault on Police Officer - R. v. Stanislavski
Break and Enter and Assault on Police Officer
Facts: Steven, in the company of two other men, broke into a home by smashing a rear window. Once inside they took many items including a TV, DVDs, a pair of boots and a laptop.
As police arrived the trio were driving away. A plain clothed officer stood in the path of the fleeing car and directed it to stop, whereupon he was struck by the vehicle.  The three continued to flee until their car struck a pole.
Steven was arrested as he exited the vehicle. At that point he spit in the direction of one officer and kicked another in the shin.
Inside the vehicle were found tools for breaking and entering as well as the stolen merchandise. Steven and his accomplices were charged with breaking and entering, possessing instruments for the purpose of a break-in and assaulting a police officer.
Result: After countless pre-trial meetings with the Crown in which they insisted on a guilty plea to breaking and entering, the Crown was finally persuaded to accept a guilty plea to assaulting a police officer by spitting at him and kicking his shin. He received a criminal record for this but avoided lengthy jail time.

### Domestic Mischief - R. v. James
Domestic Mischief
Facts: Mary and Dan were in the process of splitting their possessions following an 18 year marriage. They had agreed that two particular paintings would be split up. However, Dan had taken both and placed them in his trailer outside the home.
Mary became very upset that the paintings had been removed. She began taking more pictures off the wall in retaliation. As the altercation escalated she smashed two of these frames. The cost of the damage was approximately $300.
She was charged with one count of mischief under $5,000 and released on a promise to appear.
Results: Mary entered a peace bond recognizance to stay away from Dan for a period of 12 months. Charges were withdrawn.

### Uttering Threats, Criminal Harrassment, Possession of a Weapon – R. v. Rigour
Uttering Threats, Criminal Harassment, Possession of Weapon for Purpose Dangerous - Youth
Facts: Chris and his girlfriend Lisa, of approximately 18 months, had a difficult break up. Following their split he repeatedly tried to convince her to reconcile their differences. Following the break-up he was very aggressive and persistent in his efforts so Lisa suggested they remain friends.
However, as his efforts to re-establish the relationship were rebutted he became increasingly angry. When Lisa attempted to shut down lines of communication he continued to contact her through their mutual friends.
Chris was warned by police and guidance counsellors that such conduct could be grounds for a charge of criminal harassment.  Despite warnings he continued to go out of his way to be in her presence in school and communicate through a mutual friend named Charles.
Eventually Chris told Charles that he wanted to orchestrate a “mass shooting” and shoot Lisa as well. To demonstrate his seriousness he displayed what he claimed was a firearm to Charles, although it was later determined to be a pellet gun. He also indicated that the school shooting would occur once he was fully prepared.
Charles, believing all that Chris had said, approached Lisa and the two went to police to inform them of what Chris has said. He was then charged with two counts of uttering threats, one count of possession of an imitation firearm and a count of criminal harassment.
Results: After a lengthy trial, Chris was acquitted of criminal harassment but found guilty of uttering death threats to the people at the school and to Lisa. He was also found guilty of possessing a weapon.
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### Domestic Assault - R. v. Bentovolio
Domestic Assault
Facts: Mark and his girlfriend decided to celebrate their one year anniversary with a comedy show and a hotel room. That evening an argument erupted over an ex-girlfriend. Later a second argument occurred over drinking and money. When Mark’s girlfriend attempted to leave he restrained her with physical force.
The two then exchanged blows. Mark’s girlfriend punched him in the face at which point he slapped her. He then held her down on the couch and proceeded to choke her. After some time had passed his girlfriend was able to leave the room and call police from the bar next door.
Mark was woken later by the police and was cooperative during his arrest. He was charged with assault, forcible confinement and choking.
Result: Mark entered into a peace bond to keep the peace and the charges were withdrawn.
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### Drug Possession - R. v. Jackson
Drug Possession - Young Offender
Facts: Jason, while in the company of two other young men, was approached by police in a park at 10pm. He was suspected of selling drugs. The police, upon confronting the boys, detected the scent of marijuana. When the officer checked Jason’s identification it was revealed he had previously been warned for possession.
The officer asked Jason to turn over whatever marijuana he had on his person. At that point he revealed he was in possession of a long hunting knife, which he handed over to the officer. After further investigation the officer noted Jason had another knife on his person and decided to search his bag for more weapons. Within his bag a large quantity of marijuana was discovered.
At that moment Jason fled the scene. He was apprehended approximately one hour later. Jason was charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and resisting arrest. He was then released with an appearance notice. His two friends were released with warnings.
Result: Jason’s matter was diverted. He completed some interviews with the Boys and Girls club and the charges were withdrawn.
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### Stolen Credit Card - R. v. Adams
Possession of stolen credit cards:
Mickey was in the rear seat of a car heading towards Montreal along Highway 401. His friend was driving and his other friend was in the front seat. In and around the City of Brockville, an OPP officer stopped the vehicle and searched both the contents of the vehicle and Mickey and his two friends' person. The officer discovered stolen credit cards on the person of the driver and the occupant of the front seat. They also found approximately 30g of marijuana in a knapsack in the back seat. All three were charged with possession of stolen credit cards and possession of schedule II substance.
Result - After meeting with the Crown, they agreed to withdraw against Mickey if the driver took responsibility for the stolen credit cards. Charges against Mickey were withdrawn.
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### Criminal Harassment - R. v. Morretti
Luciano was a Canadian Forces member having trouble with his superiors. He befriended another female Corporal and spent many hours drinking together as friends. Luciano began acting bizarrely according to the friend.
On one occasion, Luciano arrived to her house unannounced and she did not want him to come in. He thought she was joking and tried to push his way past her but she blocked the door. He was taken aback and confused as to why she would not want him to come in (they had hung out at her place previously).
Eventually a complaint was made to the Military Police about Luciano's behaviour. The Corporal was texting with Luciano one day and he showed up near to where she was. He asked her if she wanted to hang out and she replied: "get away from me". Luciano complied.
Shortly thereafter, the Military Police arrested Luciano for harassment. Luciano stated that he didn't understand what the big deal was about. He was charged with criminal harassment.
He was released with conditions to abstain from consuming alcohol, or possessing drugs and to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. A trial date was set. At trial, the Corporal failed to attend court.
Result: Luciano was acquitted of criminal harassment.
Addendum: One week before trial, Luciano was feeling down and was drinking at a local gentleman's club. At some point he was ejected. A police officer who was in the viscinity found Luciano to be highly intoxicated and asked him what he was doing.
Luciano told the police officer that he was just going home. Instead of arresting Luciano for breaching his bail conditions, the police officer put him in a taxi. After a few blocks drive, Luciano got back out of the taxi. The police officer then arrested him for breaching his bail conditions. These new charges proceeded through the system.
Because Luciano had taken alcohol counselling through the Royal Ottawa Hospital, the Crown eventually agreed to divert Luciano's breach charges because he had been following up with his doctor.
Result #2: breach charges were diverted. Luciano completed his community service and all charges were withdrawn. ***This is an amazing result for Luciano. Many clients do not achieve similar outcomes***
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### Domestic Assault - R. v. Mustafa
Client Acquitted for Domestic Assault Charges
Ali was couch surfing and had been staying at a buddy's place for a couple of weeks. Ali's friend had a girlfriend who did not approve of Ali. The versions of what happened next differed somewhat substantially. The complainant stated that Ali had assaulted her, then grabbed a chair and broke it over his own friend's head. The complainant further stated that Ali then grabbed her and dragged her out of the apartment by her hair. Police arrived on scene to a hysterical complainant. Ali was not found on the scene. Ali had a different version. He said that complainant and he had had a falling out and she knew the system well enough to know that Ali would not get bail if charged and that would be a perfect way of getting rid of him.
Ali was charged with assault and assault with a weapon. He was detained at his bail hearing. He stayed in custody for two months before trial. At trial, the complainant offered a version which did not account with human experience and contradicted herself about who was hit with the chair.
Result - Client acquitted.
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### Firearms Offence - R. v. Mortimer
Billy was being driven around by his step-father on a Tuesday. He went to a doctor's appointment, filled a prescription, then drove to meet a mechanic friend at his garage in Barrhaven. Once there, Billy picked up his Beretta-style pellet gun from his friend, had a brief friendly exchange with him and then as he was walking away, pointed the pellet gun in the general direction of the friend. Billy got into his car and drove home.
What Billy was unaware of was that he was under surveillance by WSIB private investigators who captured this exchange on video. After a few hours, the investigators chose to report the incident to the police.
The Tactical Unit of the Ottawa Police Service (equivalent to SWAT in the U.S.) was dispatched to Billy's house. They arrested him at gunpoint and Billy cooperated throughout. After he was placed under arrest, the police searched Billy's property looking for evidence without a warrant. They found the pellet gun and seized it.
Billy was charged with pointing a firearm, possession of weapon dangerous to public peace among other counts.
The mechanic friend later stated to police that Billy had never pointed the gun at him and he was in no way threatened, nor did he feel afraid of Billy in any way.
Result - Billy brought a motion to exclude the pellet gun because of a violation of his Charter rights. Further, Billy's defence was that the pellet gun was not a "firearm" as contemplated in the Criminal Code and was also not a weapon because it was not used offensively.
Billy was acquitted at trial of all counts. This case is currently under appeal to the Ontario Court of Appeal.

### Impaired Driving - R. v. Mirsky
Impaired Driving:
A person who the police later believed was Mika was driving along Highway 7 in the City of Ottawa heading towards Carleton Place in December 1997. After swerving into the oncoming lane a few times and then continuing in the oncoming lane for 2-3 kilometres (presumably without realizing) as oncoming cars took the shoulder to avoid a collision, the driver of the vehicle failed to negotiate a turn near Stittsville and the car ended up down an embankment in the ditch.
This was all witnessed by a husband and wife in a car that attempted to keep up with the lead car. They arrived shortly after the vehicle left the road. They later testified that they saw a black man get out of the driver's side of the vehicle. That person staggered up the hill onto the roadway.
The police arrived shortly thereafter and having smelled alcohol on the driver's breath, arrested the driver for impaired driving and dangerous driving. The person identified themselves at that time as "Colin Mirsky".
Back at the station, the officer saw that the vehicle was registered to "Mika". When asked to empty his pockets, this individual pulled out a Canadian Tire card in the name of Mika. When asked who Mika was, the person indicated that it was himself.
The individual's identity was not confirmed by photo id. That person was asked to provide a sample of his breath and did. Readings were 208 and 205 mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood.
The individual was released on a promise to appear with a court date in January 1998. That individual never showed up for court. A bench warrant issued in the name of Mika.
In 2006, Mika was arrested when he returned to Ottawa. Mika recently had a trial. The Crown had its witnesses and Mika brought a Charter motion to exclude evidence of the breath readings. The driver of the following car, nor the police officer could say whether Mika was the same person they had seen in 1997.
Result - Mika was acquitted because there was no direct evidence that the person standing trial and the driver of the vehicle were the same person.
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### Drug Trafficking - R. v. Jones
Client, Mike, had been dealing cocaine to support his habit for a number of years. He attracted the attention of undercover police and they set up a sting to see if they could get Mike to sell cocaine to them. Over the course of several months, the undercover built up a relationship with Mike. Mike sold to the undercover five times in quantities ranging from 1.5g to 6g.
That could have been enough to arrest Mike but the undercover wanted to see if they could acquire a more substantial amount. He arranged for Mike to acquire two ounces (58g) of cocaine. Mike provided the amount after obtaining it from a supplier. Mike was arrested on scene.
Having no viable defence, Mike pleaded guilty to trafficking in scheduled substance. He had no criminal record at the time of the offence. Usually this type of offence with this quantity of drug would attract a penitentiary term (2+ years in jail).
Result - After a half day sentencing hearing, Mike received a 90 day intermittent jail sentence (weekends) followed by an 18 month conditional sentence order (house arrest but allowed to work).
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### Theft - R. v. Holmes
Freddy is a 16 year old living with his grandparents. On November 28th, 2012 at approximately 1540Hrs, Freddy entered the men's clothing department inside the Sears department store located at 1250 St Laurent Blvd in the city of Ottawa. Freddy selected two identical pairs of Levi pants valued at $78.00 each and proceeded to the fitting room. He exited the fitting room shortly after with only one pair of pants in hand. Loss prevention officer, Craig Turner, was monitoring Freddy's actions via CCTV and had an associate check the fitting room and confirm that the second pair of pants was not still inside the room.
Freddy exited the store making no attempt to pay for the second pair of pants. Freddy was arrested by Turner. Freddy did not have a criminal or youth record. He had participated in diversion before for a small drug possession offence.
Result - Given Freddy's lack of criminal record, persuaded the Crown to divert this matter. Charges were stayed upon Freddy's willingness to accept responsibility for the theft and to perform community service. No criminal record or plea of guilt required.
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### Theft - R. v. Smith
Theft over $5,000:
John was charged with theft over $5,000 and theft by power of attorney. He moved back home in 2004 to live with his mother who was elderly. By 2008, his mother ended up in the hospital and John's sister, who was power of attorney then jointly with John decided that their mother would be placed into a nursing home.
Uncomfortable with this arrangement due to the belief in rapid deterioration of individuals placed into nursing homes, John decides to bring his mother back home. Shortly thereafter John brings his mother to a lawyer who then changes the power of attorney to be primarily in John's name. Thereafter, John encourages his mother to add him to the deed of the house. A $50,000 mortgage is soon placed on the home. The sister then relinquishes her stake in the power of attorney shortly thereafter.
Fast forward two years or so and John is beginning to be investigated for possible neglect with regards to his mother's care. Mother's dementia has progressed and is now deemed to be unfit to be left alone. Care workers who attend the home to give John respite begin noticing unexplained bruising on her skin. Some suggestion is made that there is an inadequate amount of food being kept in the house. Ultimately, an insufficient amount of evidence existed to charge John for failing to provide the necessities of life.
However, the sister begins to notice large amounts of money being moved around her mother's account. The mother inherits two separate inheritances within a few months totalling over $200,000. John's sister becomes worried that John might not be using this money properly even though John is investing a large portion of the money. John's sister is aware of the transactions because she was a co-owner of the bank account in which the mother's money was deposited.
John is eventually charged with stealing his mother's money (the total amount stated was $30,000).
Result - on the trial date, Crown agrees to stay the charges upon John's willingness to renounce his power of attorney for property and remove his name from title of the deed to the house.
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### Sexual Assault - R. v. Matthews
Sexual Assault:
Tim, a 15 year old, was dating a 14 year old for six months in 2009. The two did not see each other that often because both attended different schools. Both lived at home with their parents. The relationship broke down and the two broke up. Several months later, the girl complained to a guidance counsellor at school that Tim had abused her physically and sexually. The guidance counsellor contacted the Ottawa Police and they had the girl come in and provide a statement.
She informed the police that on numerous occasions in 2009, Tim forced her to perform oral sex on him and on two occasions had been forced to have sexual intercourse with him. If she did not comply, Tim would punch her in the stomach. No one was shown any bruises, she claimed.
Tim was charged with sexual assault.
Result - Tim was acquitted at trial because of many inconsistencies in the girl's testimony. She could not recall how many occasions she had been forced to have oral sex, could not remember where the sexual intercourse had occurred, and contradicted herself many times over details such as whether or not Tim had ejaculated.
 

### Robbery - R. v. Mason
Robbery:
Brian, a 15 year old, had had a friend named Mohammed. Mohammed had taken an ipod and some headphones from Brian while at his house. Brian eventually discovered that Mohammed had taken them. He confronted Mohammed and was given a number of excuses and assured he would be paid back. After some time, payment was not forthcoming. Brian decided to take action on his own without contacting police.
Brian discovered that Mohammed was at a bus station and he ran after Mohammed, eventually caught up to him and was video taped grabbing Mohammed's neck chain. Brian took Mohammed's baseball cap as forced payment for the items missing. He immediately sold the cap to another teenager for marijuana. All this was caught on camera. Police arrived and Brian was charged with robbery.
Result - Found guilty at trial because the incident met the strict definition of robbery (theft with violence or threats of violence). Because Brian had many community supports in place to help him, he did not have a criminal record, and his pre-sentence report was outstanding, Brian received a conditional discharge with no criminal record. This was an outstanding result for Brian.
Note: This case was highly unusual. It is not common to receive a discharge for robbery.
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### Breach of Bail Conditions - R. v. Moses
School-yard Scuffle: Assault (S. 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada) & Breach of Bail Conditions:
Facts: Moses, a 16 year-old high school student, was involved in a school-yard tussle and was charged with assault. Moses was also charged with breaching his bail conditions – failure to "keep the peace and be of good behaviour" – that arose from a previous incident.
Moses' altercation occurred while he and his friends were skateboarding during their lunch hour. A skateboard accidentally veered into a female classmate who was eating lunch in the area. Her boyfriend took offence and approached Moses and his friends. Words were exchanged and ultimately some pushing and shoving occurred. Unfortunately for Moses, the incident got reported to the school principle and charges were laid. Moses decided to go to trial after considering the pros and cons of his case in discussion with Joshua Clarke.
Result: - At trial, Moses was acquitted on both the assault and breach charges. Joshua Clarke was able to successfully cross-examine the Crown's own witnesses (Moses' classmates) to expose the trivial nature of the school-yard fight. Without requiring Moses to take the stand, Mr. Clarke was able to show that there was no evidence to substantiate the assault charge. While the Crown prosecutor stubbornly attempted to find Moses guilty of breaching his conditions to keep the peace and be of good behaviour, Mr. Clarke successfully highlighted the problems with finding a breach even after the assault charge had been dropped.
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### Fraud Case - R. v. Columbia
Mr. and Mrs. Columbia, recent immigrants to Canada, had been utilizing the social assistance (Ontario Works) program to support themselves. After a few years of collecting, Mrs. Columbia began working at a retirement home performing personal support work and at a hotel performing housekeeping. Mrs. Columbia was being paid for this work but continued to collect her social assistance benefits.
An investigation at Ontario Works led to the discovery that Mrs. Columbia was no longer eligible for social assistance funding. She had received over $8,000 in benefits to which she was deemed disentitled. The Ottawa Police Service were contacted and both Mr. and Mrs. Columbia were charged with fraud over $5,000. Mr. Columbia provided several thousand dollars back to Ontario Works immediately after being charged.
Result - Given that Mr. and Mrs. Columbia were first time offenders and had made partial restitution of the monies taken, the Crown was persuaded to divert these charges. This is an extraordinary result. This is an atypical result. Charges were ultimately withdrawn upon Mr. and Mrs. Columbia completing the requirements of the diversion program.
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### Drug Possession - R. v. Johnson
Possession of schedule II substance:
Mickey was in the rear seat of a car heading towards Montreal along Highway 401. His friend was driving and his other friend was in the front seat. In and around the City of Brockville, an OPP officer stopped the vehicle and searched both the contents of the vehicle and Mickey and his two friends' person. The officer discovered stolen credit cards on the person of the driver and the occupant of the front seat. They also found approximately 30g of marijuana in a knapsack in the back seat. All three were charged with possession of stolen credit cards and possession of schedule II substance.
Result - After meeting with the Crown, they agreed to withdraw against Mickey if the driver took responsibility for the stolen credit cards. Charges against Mickey were withdrawn.
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### Drug Possession - R. v. Martinez
Fred was driving in his car when he was stopped by an OPP officer for an expired plate. The officer's system indicated that Fred's plate was expired when in fact, Fred had obtained a valid sticker within the previous week. The officer viewed the proper sticker and investigated further. He approached Fred's window and asked for identification and vehicle registration. The officer then said that he saw a burnt marijuana cigarette (roach) in the ashtray and a strong smell of marijuana coming from the vehicle. This lead the officer to search the vehicle and Fred's person revealing approximately 30g of marijuana. Fred was charged with possession of scheduled substance.
Matter was set for trial and we brought a motion to exclude the evidence because of a breach of Fred's constitutional (Charter) rights because of the unreasonable search.
Result - on day of trial, Crown offered conditional discharge so client pleaded guilty for a conditional discharge and no criminal record.

### Theft - R. v. McDonald
Theft: 
Gary, a seventeen year old student, was at his high school one day when he and his friend decided to check out the lost and found to see if there was anything they could use. Gary had been told by some teachers that it was okay to take items from the lost and found. Gary saw a nice looking bag with some sunglasses in it. He took the sunglasses. He was immediately confronted by another student who claimed that the bag was his and the sunglasses were also his. Gary did not give the sunglasses to the other student.
Gary was charged with theft under $5,000 for stealing sunglasses.
Result - negotiated diversion - community service and charge withdrawn.
 
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