Canadian Criminal Law:

Question: What should I do right away after being charged with a criminal offence in Ontario?

Answer: 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.

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.