Canadian Criminal Law:

Question: Can a paralegal or a lawyer help me if I have been charged with a Criminal Code offence in Ontario?

Answer: A criminal charge under Canadian law is handled through the Criminal Code and related federal statutes, and the fastest way to protect your rights in Ontario is to get clear guidance on charge type (summary, indictable, or hybrid), court steps, timelines, and potential outcomes before you speak with police or appear in court.  Olson Craig Legal provides Lawyer & Paralegals services across Ontario, helping people respond to criminal allegations with practical next steps, advocacy support, and strategy for the circumstances of their case, so you can move forward with confidence; call (226) 886-2001 to book a free 1/4 hour consultation and get started today.

Criminal Law in Canada

Criminal law in Canada deals with conduct considered harmful or threatening to society, focusing on prevention, punishment, and rehabilitation.  It is primarily governed by the Criminal Code, with additional offenses outlined in statutes like the Narcotic Control Act, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Food and Drugs Act, and the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Categories of Criminal Offences

Indictable offences represent the most serious crimes requiring formal court procedures.  These offences, including theft over $5,000, murder, and aggravated sexual assault, necessitate representation by a lawyer.

Summary offences, less severe than indictable offences, involve a more streamlined process. Legal representation for such offences, including theft under $5,000 and breach of probation, can be provided by lawyers and, in most cases, paralegals as well.

Hybrid offences give prosecutors the choice to proceed under either indictable or summary classification.  Representation for these offences, which include sexual assault and dangerous operation of a vehicle, may involve a lawyer or potentially a paralegal, depending on the prosecution's decision.