Criminal Law

Youth diversion in Canada is an important alternative to the traditional court process for young people charged with criminal offences. Rather than focusing on punishment, youth diversion programs aim to address the underlying causes of criminal behaviour and give young people the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions without receiving a permanent criminal record. For parents...

A recognizance order is a formal court order that requires an individual to enter into a binding agreement to follow specific conditions, usually as part of bail or peace bond proceedings. In Canadian criminal law, recognizance orders are a central tool used by the courts to ensure public safety, encourage compliance with the law, and provide alternatives to pre-trial detention. The individual...

In sexual assault cases, two of the most complex and scrutinized legal concepts are consent and mistaken belief in consent. These issues often form the core of the trial, especially when there is no physical evidence or witnesses beyond the complainant and the accused. In Canadian criminal law, the line between consent and criminal liability can be thin—and a mistaken belief defence must meet...

Being accused of theft from your employer is a serious matter under Canadian criminal law. These charges can involve more than just losing your job—they can lead to a criminal record, jail time, and long-term damage to your personal and professional reputation. If you’ve been charged, understanding how these cases are handled and what defences may be available is essential to protecting...

A recognizance order is a legal mechanism in Canadian criminal law that allows a person to be released under certain conditions—usually as part of a bail arrangement or peace bond. It is a formal promise, backed by a monetary pledge, to abide by the terms imposed by the court. Recognizance orders are commonly used to manage individuals before trial or as a preventive measure to protect others...

Social media is now a powerful—and often dangerous—source of evidence in criminal investigations. What you post, like, message, or share online can be used in court to build a case against you or others. In Canadian criminal law, social media evidence is increasingly central to how charges are laid, prosecuted, and defended. Understanding how this type of evidence is gathered, presented, and...

While the terms criminal harassment and stalking are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, they have specific meanings under Canadian criminal law. Understanding the distinction is important if you’ve been accused of either, or if you’re trying to defend yourself against unwarranted allegations. What Is Criminal Harassment? Under section 264 of the Criminal Code of Canada,...

Being charged with domestic assault can upend your life overnight. One of the most urgent and emotionally distressing questions people ask is: “Can I go back home after a domestic assault charge?” The answer depends on the outcome of your bail hearing, the terms of your release, and the legal strategy your defence lawyer pursues. This article explains when and how you may be allowed to return...

A charge of domestic assault involving choking is among the most serious and aggressively prosecuted offences in Canada’s criminal justice system. Unlike a typical assault allegation, choking is considered a higher-risk indicator of escalating intimate partner violence. As a result, the legal consequences and societal stigma are severe—and the Crown will often seek detention or significant...

Legal challenges can be overwhelming for anyone, but women often face unique circumstances when navigating the justice system. Whether you are dealing with criminal charges, family law issues, workplace discrimination, or domestic violence, securing the right legal representation for women is essential to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair trial or outcome. This...