When we think of criminal defence in Ottawa, we often think of civilian courts — but right in our backyard (or up the highway, in Petawawa or Pembroke) lives an entirely different system: the military justice system.When we think of criminal defence in Ottawa, we often think of civilian courts — but right in our backyard (or up the highway, in Petawawa or Pembroke) lives an entirely different system: the military justice system.

Credibility is often the deciding factor in Canadian sexual assault trials. I break down how courts assess credibility and reliability, using the R. v. McLeod et al. (Hockey Canada) case and leading Supreme Court rulings.

“I didn’t do anything. I was just there.”

This is something criminal defence lawyers hear all the time—and for good reason. Many people are shocked to find out that they can be charged with a crime even if they didn’t physically commit it. In Canadian law, this is known as party liability.

Firearm offences in Canada cover a broad spectrum—from accidental mistakes to violent crimes. Important to know: you don’t have to fire a gun to face charges. The Criminal Code of Canada and the Firearms Act establish rules about firearm possession, storage, use, and design.

When it comes to firearms in Canada, a simple question—“Was it loaded?”—can make a big difference in the charges you face, how the Crown prosecutes the case, and the sentence you may receive if convicted.

In Canada, firearm offences are among the most serious criminal charges you can face. Whether you’re accused of unlawful possession, unsafe storage, or using a gun in the commission of another crime, the consequences can be severe—including mandatory minimum sentences and a lifelong criminal record.

The high-profile arrest and prosecution of Kenneth Law—accused of selling substances used in hundreds of suicides across the globe—has triggered not only media attention but profound legal reflection.

When police are called to a domestic disturbance, things can escalate quickly. Even a heated argument—without physical violence—can result in criminal charges. If you’re accused of domestic assault in Ontario, the consequences can be immediate, life-altering, and deeply personal. You may be removed from your home, barred from seeing your children, or find yourself facing a criminal record based on little more than a single allegation.

The Supreme Court of Canada’s April 2025 decision in R. v. Pan marked a significant moment in Canadian criminal law, as it revisited the concept of the “air of reality” test and its application in jury trials. While the Jennifer Pan case has captivated the public for years due to its dramatic facts—a murder-for-hire plot masterminded by a daughter against her own parents—the latest legal chapter sheds light on a more technical but crucial aspect of trial fairness.

If you’re facing a sexual assault charge in Ontario, your defence may rely on introducing text messages, social media exchanges, or other evidence that includes sexual content involving the complainant.