Toronto Domestic Assault Lawyers
Domestic Assault
A domestic assault allegation can immediately affect where a person lives, who they may contact and how parenting or family responsibilities are managed. These consequences often arise before the evidence has been fully reviewed.
At Shikhman Barristers, the legal response addresses the charge, the conditions of release and the practical circumstances surrounding the case.
How Domestic Assault Charges Proceed
Police may lay charges following an allegation involving a current or former partner, a family member or another person within an intimate relationship.
Once a charge is laid, the Crown decides whether the prosecution continues. The complainant’s wishes may be considered, but they do not control the proceeding.
Conditions Prohibiting Contact
A release order may prohibit direct or indirect communication or prevent a person from attending a shared residence, workplace or other location.
The condition remains enforceable unless it is formally changed. Consent from the other person does not authorize contact that is prohibited by a court order.
Available 24/7 for Your Call
Legal issues do not always happen during business hours. Shikhman Barristers is available 24/7 to take your call, answer your initial questions, and discuss your next steps.
Reviewing the Evidence and the Relationship History
The evidence may include statements, emergency calls, photographs, medical records, messages, social media material and information about prior interactions.
The existence of conflict within a relationship does not prove a criminal offence. The question is whether the evidence establishes the allegation according to law.
Parenting, Housing and Employment
Release conditions may affect parenting arrangements, access to the home, employment and the ability to retrieve personal property.
These issues should be identified early so that the available legal process can be considered without placing the person at risk of an additional charge for breaching a condition.
Related Family, Immigration or Professional Proceedings
A criminal allegation may overlap with family litigation, immigration concerns, workplace investigations or professional regulation.
Advice in the criminal matter should account for those related consequences and the possible effect of statements made in another proceeding.
Can the Charge Be Withdrawn?
A charge may be withdrawn in appropriate circumstances, but no lawyer can guarantee that result. The Crown’s decision depends on the evidence, the applicable law and the procedural history of the case.
When to Contact a Lawyer
Contact a criminal defence lawyer as soon as an arrest occurs or a surrender is being considered. Early advice allows time to identify possible sureties, gather relevant information and prepare the proposed release plan.
SPEAK WITH OUR FIRM
Request a Confidential Consultation
If you are under investigation, have been arrested or are facing a criminal charge, bail hearing, trial or appeal, contact Shikhman Barristers to discuss your circumstances and understand the next step. If you have been detained or arrested, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer before answering questions about the allegation.
416-365-3151
Toll-free: 1-888-508-9178
Available 24/7
Email: info@crimlawcanada.com
*Submitting this form does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Please do not include confidential or time-sensitive information. Shikhman Barristers must confirm that it is able to act before a lawyer-client relationship is established.