Impaired Driving (DUI Canada)
You probably did not intend to endanger anyone. But impaired or drunk driving (DUI - Driving under the influence) is a serious offence with minimum statutory penalties that can result in losing your driver’s licence.

Sometimes the Crown cannot prove its case due to missing witnesses, flawed evidence or violations of rights. For more about impaired driving and how I can help, see the impaired driving page.

Domestic Assault
If you’ve been charged with domestic assault, you are likely in jail over-night. The next morning when you appear before the bail judge you need both a criminal lawyer and a family member or friend to act as a surety.

To be released you must agree not to go to the residence or make contact with your spouse. Sometimes this is a hardship for all concerned. It may be possible to bring you back into the home based on the written, revocable consent of your spouse. If no injury has occurred, then you may be able to avoid a criminal record.

Shoplifting
Shoplifting is a special kind of theft - often impulsive, sometimes compulsive. You don’t need to be embarrassed. It happens to all kinds of people.

If it’s a first offence for a small amount, you may be able to avoid a criminal record by making a charitable donation or completing several hours of community service.

Fraud
As a planned process to deprive people of money or goods, fraud is a serious offence. But it may be difficult to prove due to long time lines or complexity.

Convictions result in a criminal record. But since fraud is a non-violent crime, it is possible to get non-custodial sentences, particularly with some restitution.

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