Last Updated: August 23 2026
What should I do right away after being charged with a criminal offence in Ontario?
If you have been charged with a criminal offence in Ontario, act fast by preserving evidence, avoiding admissions, and asking a lawyer or paralegal to explain the charges, court timelines, disclosure, and options for bail or a resolution before your next appearance. Olson Craig Legal can help you understand whether your matter is a summary, indictable, or hybrid charge under the Criminal Code, what that means for procedure, and what representation options may be available to protect your rights in court. Call (226) 886-2001 to book a free 1/4 hour consultation with a Lawyer & Paralegal in Ontario.
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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.
Note: Please contact Olson Craig Legal by phone at: (226) 886-2001 to discuss any specific questions that you may have.
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.
Deeper Information About Canadian Criminal Law...
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NOTE: A significant number of inquiries related to “lawyers near me” or “best lawyer in” typically signify a pressing need for competent legal assistance instead of a specific job designation. In Ontario, licensed paralegals are governed by the same Law Society that regulates lawyers and are permitted to represent clients in specific litigation cases. Advocacy, legal assessment, and procedural expertise are fundamental to this position. Olson Craig Legal provides legal representation within its licensed framework, focusing on strategic positioning, evidence preparation, and effective advocacy aimed at securing prompt and advantageous outcomes for clients.
