Protecting Your Rights: The Importance of a Skilled Assault Lawyer
When facing criminal charges for assault in Canada, it is crucial to understand which kind of offense you are facing. It is vital to seek the legal expertise of our professional law firm where we guide you through the legal process and defend your rights. At Erickson Law, we specialize in defending assault charges in Toronto and our assault lawyer provides you with timely and experienced assistance.
Why You Need An Assault Lawyer
Failing to secure the services of an assault lawyer in Toronto can have devastating consequences for the accused, even in cases where no crime has actually taken place. When authorities respond to reports of alleged domestic violence, they often opt to make arrests, even when it boils down to one person’s word against another or when the circumstances suggest that the accusations may be false. Consequently, numerous innocent individuals find themselves arrested for crimes they did not commit. If you happen to be accused of assault or domestic violence, you will typically undergo a bail hearing and be subjected to stringent bail conditions until your trial concludes or until you present an application to modify them before a judge.
Different types of assault include:
Simple assault refers to cases where no weapon is used, and the resulting injuries are minor. This is the most common and least severe form of assault. In Canada, it can be prosecuted as either a summary conviction offense or an indictable offense, depending on the circumstances.
Assault with a weapon occurs when an individual carries, uses, or threatens to use a weapon during the commission of an assault. This charge can also be applied when intimidation is employed to cause bodily harm. While people often envision guns or knives as weapons, everyday objects such as a glass bottle or a vehicle can also be considered weapons when used to threaten or cause harm to another person. Possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm with ammunition also falls under this type of assault charge. Assault with a weapon is always regarded as a serious crime and carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
If you are charged with assault causing bodily harm, it means that the police and the Crown agree that you intentionally inflicted harm or injury upon someone, affecting their health and well-being. As a hybrid offense, the severity of the punishment depends on the extent of the injuries and other factors surrounding the crime. A summary conviction can result in a sentence of up to 18 months in jail, while an indictable offense can carry a maximum sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment.
Aggravated assault is a highly serious and indictable offense, carrying a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison. This offense occurs when a person intentionally causes severe harm, injury, maiming, disfigurement, or endangers the life of the victim. It is considered a particularly severe form of assault and is treated with utmost gravity under the law.
Sexual assault is an extremely grave charge with lifelong consequences. If convicted of sexual assault, you will be required to register as a sex offender, which will have a lasting impact on various aspects of your life. A sexual assault conviction can significantly affect your employment opportunities, relationships, and personal reputation for the remainder of your life. It is crucial to understand the severe ramifications associated with this offense and seek competent legal representation if you are facing such charges.
It is essential to understand the distinctions between these types of assault offenses as they have varying degrees of severity and potential penalties. If you are facing assault charges, seeking legal advice from a qualified professional is crucial to navigate the legal process effectively.
What Is An Indictable Offence In Canada?
Indictable offenses are serious crimes that require a trial by jury or a judge in the Superior Court, either with or without a preliminary hearing. In Provincial Court, a judge alone handles these cases without a preliminary hearing. Unlike summary offenses, there is no limitation period for indictable offenses, meaning an individual can be charged or convicted at any time. Examples of indictable offenses include:
- • Motor vehicle offenses resulting in the death of another
- • Murder
- • Robbery
- • Acts of terrorism
- • Aggravated sexual assault
- • Drug trafficking
- • Kidnapping, abduction, hostage situations, forcible confinement
- • Treason
As an experienced aggravated assault lawyer in Toronto, John Erickson can assist you in navigating the complexities of your indictable offense discreetly and urgently. Our goal is to help you defend against the allegations and provide you with the peace of mind you deserve.
Why Is It Important To Seek A Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Having a clear understanding of the differences between summary and indictable offences is crucial when facing criminal charges. It allows individuals to make informed decisions and seek appropriate legal representation to navigate the legal process effectively.
John Erickson, a highly experienced domestic assault lawyer, has dedicated nearly two decades to practicing law in Toronto. Throughout his career, he has successfully defended numerous individuals facing charges related to assault and domestic assault in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and across southern Ontario.
Contact Us
Erickson Law stands out as a reliable choice for those in need of a domestic assault lawyer in Toronto, primarily due to John Erickson’s track record of achievements and his commitment to providing affordable and comprehensive client care. If you are currently searching for a domestic assault lawyer in Toronto, we encourage you to take advantage of our services. Contact us at (416) 363-3612 or send an email to info@ericksonlaw.ca to schedule your complimentary consultation today. We are here to assist you.
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