Are you facing a criminal court case in Ontario? If so, we know how intimidating the process can be.
Expert legal representation is a must, and the right defence lawyer can help guide you through these critical next steps. When you're searching for the best criminal defence lawyer Barrie can offer, it pays to ask the right questions.
Today, we're walking you through some of the main points to consider as you do your research and choose the right legal team for your case.
1. WHAT ARE YOUR AREAS OF PRACTICE?
Before you agree to partner with a firm, you need to make sure that they're experienced in criminal law. With over 30 years of experience in private law, our areas of practice are wide-ranging, covering charges from impaired driving and drug offences to domestic and sexual assault.
Once you're sure that they're qualified to take your case, you can also inquire about the legal fees they charge to make sure they're within your budget.
2. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I'M FACING CHARGES?
Are you facing a firearm offence? What about impaired driving charges? You're likely confused and unsure what steps to take next.
Should you talk to the police about the crimes that occurred? Do you need to hire a lawyer to represent you? The team you speak to should be able to tell you exactly what to do, where to go and what to say to improve your chances of a favourable outcome in court.
3. WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON THE FIRST DAY IN COURT?
Gearing up for your first day in court? Especially if this is your first offence, a trial can be nerve-wracking.
Your lawyer can explain to you that in a local criminal case, the first date that your case enters the Ontario Court of Justice is not the actual start date of your trial.
Rather, it's an administrative gathering to help iron out the details of your case, including the specific charges and your intentions of retaining legal representation.
4. SHOULD I ENTER A GUILTY PLEA?
In some cases, it might seem more appealing to skip the challenges of court altogether and plead guilty to the charges against you. While you will always have the right to a trial, your lawyer can advise you if entering this plea is a wise route.
Among others, key details to consider include:
The proposed sentence
Your chances of winning the case
Evidentiary or constitutional issues with the Crown's case
Long-term consequences of the sentence
Any family law issues
5. CAN I APPEAL A CONVICTION OR SENTENCE?
The criminal appeals process in Ontario can be complicated. If you're convicted of a crime, you're within your rights to request that an appeal court review the decision. At the same time, the Crown can also make the same request.
Your lawyer can advise you on whether or not this would be a smart move in your case. They can also walk you through the process and explain the steps involved.
CONTACT OUR CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYER IN BARRIE TODAY
You don't have to face criminal charges alone. Our firm is at the helm of the best criminal defence lawyer in Barrie, and we're here to help you every step of the way.
These five questions can help you get started, but we'd love to discuss your case in greater detail. Contact us today for a legal consultation.