Domestic Assault & Domestic Violence Lawyer In Toronto
In this article, I distinguish between non-domestic assaults and threats and domestic assaults and threats. The reason for this distinction is that most courthouses do the same. Domestic assaults refer to assaults committed by people who are in or have been in a relationship with the complainant. Often they are also termed “spousal assaults”. Indeed, specially trained Crown Attorneys are often assigned to “domestic assault” cases. As the offences are the same, you should, however, refer to my article on “Assaults and Threats”.
Special considerations in domestic assault cases are worth mentioning though. It is often the case that someone charged with domestic assault is released on a recognizance or undertaking that prohibits contact with the complainant. Often, the defendant won’t be allowed to live in their own home. Further, it is not uncommon for a complainant to want to “drop the charges”. Some of these issues can be discussed with the Crown’s office and remedied. I have represented many people that have needed these issues addressed. It is often the case that bail variations can be obtained and charges can be withdrawn without the necessity of a trial.
As stated in my article on “Assaults and Threats”, all assault related offences are listed in the Criminal Code of Canada: http://www.canlii.org/en/ca/laws/stat/rsc-1985-c-c-46/latest/rsc-1985-c-c-46.html. There are numerous ways to defend against all assault related charges and I have successfully defended people against them numerous times – please refer to my Recent Successes page. The consequences to receiving a conviction for any assault charge are significant and you should consult with a criminal lawyer to discuss these and other issues.
Again, the foregoing is only a summary. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. For a free consultation to discuss your case, please call me at 416-658-5855.
