subject: Finding A Criminal Lawyer In Toronto [print this page] The first thing you would desperately want to do when you land in a jail for a criminal offense is to get out! Getting caught in a legal hassle is pretty daunting. If you are completely unaware of the legal system, then the situation only gets worse! In such as case, hiring a good criminal lawyer will lessen your misery.
What is a Criminal Offence?
A criminal offence is an offence found in the Criminal Code or any other federal statute containing criminal offences. There are three kinds of criminal offences. The first kind of criminal offence is summary conviction offences. These offences are the most minor of all offences. Unless otherwise stated, these offences are punishable by a fine of no more than $5,000 and/or 6 months in jail. For example, causing a disturbance (s.175) or trespassing at night (section 177 falls under summary conviction offences. Next are the indictable offences. These ones are the most serious kinds. Examples of these offences include robbery (s.344) and murder (s.235). The penalties for these offences are greater for indictable offences than for summary offences.
The other offences are defined by the Criminal Code as hybrid offences that allow the prosecution to elect whether to prosecute the offence as a summary or an indictable offence. Till the moment the Crown elects the offence, it is treated as indictable.
Who is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
These are lawyers who specialize in the defense of those charged with any criminal offences such as those mentioned above. When you are stuck in a jail or have been arrested for a criminal offence, you will be in need of a these lawyers to fight your case.
As much as your innocence in a legal matter is important, who represents you also makes a difference. So, make a wise and informed choice.
How to Search for a Lawyer
There are plenty of criminal lawyers in Toronto. Finding the right one is very essential for securing your freedom. If you dont find a genuine lawyer to bail you out, you can be stuck in the prison for days together. While selecting a lawyer you need to keep a couple a things in mind. Look at the number of years of experience that the lawyer has. Also, look at his track record and success rate. Some lawyers practice for years together but do not have a very successful practice.
The lawyer client relationship is a very sacred relationship. Be honest and give all the accurate information to your lawyer for him/her to be able to defend you.
