In the digital era, electronic communications like text messages, emails, and social media posts have become integral to criminal investigations and trials. However, their admissibility in court is governed by stringent legal standards to ensure fairness and reliability. The recent Hockey Canada sexual assault trial serves as a pertinent case study, highlighting the complexities involved in admitting digital evidence.
Being charged with a criminal offence in Ontario can be frightening and overwhelming. For many people, it’s their first time dealing with the justice system—and panic, confusion, and fear are common responses. You may not know what happens next, what your rights are, or how to protect yourself from the long-term consequences of a criminal record.
The high-profile sexual assault trial involving five former members of Canada’s 2018 World Junior hockey team—Michael McLeod, Dillon Dubé, Carter Hart, Cal Foote, and Alex Formenton—has taken a significant turn. Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia dismissed the jury after allegations surfaced that defense attorneys were mocking jurors, leading to concerns about impartiality. As a result, the trial will proceed as a judge-alone proceeding.
When facing a criminal charge, most people worry about going to jail or paying a fine. What many don’t realize is that a criminal record can follow them long after the sentence is complete. It can affect everything from employment and housing to travel, immigration status, and even your relationships.
When you’re charged with a crime in Ontario, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Your freedom, livelihood, and reputation are all on the line. Whether you’re facing assault charges, impaired driving (DUI), domestic violence, drug offences, or theft, the most important decision you can make is to hire the right criminal defence lawyer in Ottawa.
When you’re charged with a criminal offence—especially something like assault, harassment, or a domestic incident—it can feel like your life is on hold. You may be eager for any opportunity to move on and avoid a criminal conviction. That’s often when a peace bond is proposed.
The right to a speedy trial is a cornerstone of Canada’s criminal justice system, enshrined in Section 11(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This right ensures that individuals charged with an offense are not subjected to undue delays that could prejudice their case or undermine public confidence in the justice system.
Navigating Ontario’s criminal justice system can be daunting, especially when facing criminal charges. One critical aspect that can significantly influence the outcome of a case is the plea bargain—a negotiated agreement between the defendant and the Crown prosecutor. Understanding the intricacies of plea bargaining is essential for anyone involved in the legal process.
Facing criminal charges is a challenging and often life-altering experience. When navigating the justice system, having the right lawyer by your side is critical. While there are many qualified criminal defense lawyers, hiring a local Ottawa lawyer offers unique advantages that can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Meeting with a criminal defence lawyer for the first time can be overwhelming, but it is a crucial step in protecting your rights and building a strong defence strategy.
