Criminal harassment, also known as stalking, is a serious crime in Canada and can carry severe consequences. If you have been charged with criminal harassment in Toronto, you may have a lot of questions and concerns. In this article, we will provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about criminal harassment and working with criminal harassment lawyers in Toronto.
- What is criminal harassment in Canada?
Criminal harassment is defined as repeatedly following, communicating with, or threatening another person in a manner that causes that person to fear for their safety or the safety of others. It can include behaviors such as:
- Following someone or frequently showing up at their home, workplace, or other places they frequent
- Repeatedly communicating with someone, either in person, by phone, email, or other means
- Threatening violence or damage to property
- Threatening to harm someone’s reputation or loved ones
- Engaging in threatening or harassing behavior through the use of technology (such as through social media)
- What are the consequences of a criminal harassment conviction?
If convicted of criminal harassment in Canada, the consequences can be severe, including imprisonment and a criminal record. Other consequences of a criminal harassment conviction can include:
- A jail sentence of up to 10 years
- A fine
- Restraining order preventing you from contacting the victim or going to certain places
- Loss of certain rights and privileges, such as the right to possess firearms
- Difficulty finding employment or housing
- Damage to personal and professional relationships
- Can a criminal harassment charge be dropped?
Criminal harassment charges can be dropped in some circumstances, but this depends on the facts of the case and the decisions of the Crown Attorney and the courts. If the Crown Attorney determines that there is not enough evidence to support a conviction, they may choose to drop the charges. In some cases, the victim may also choose to withdraw their complaint, which can lead to the charges being dropped.
- What should I do if I am being accused of criminal harassment?
If you have been accused of criminal harassment, it is important to take the charges seriously and seek the help of a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer can advise you on your rights and obligations and help you to understand the charges against you. They can also help you to build a defense and negotiate a plea bargain if necessary.
- How can a criminal harassment lawyer help me in Toronto?
A criminal harassment lawyer in Toronto can help you in a number of ways, including:
- Reviewing the evidence against you and advising you on the strength of the case
- Advising you on your rights and obligations
- Building a strong defense on your behalf
- Representing you in court and negotiating a plea bargain if necessary
- Advocating for a reduction in charges or a lighter sentence
- Helping to minimize the impact of a conviction on your life and future prospects
- How much does a criminal harassment lawyer cost in Toronto?
The cost of a criminal harassment lawyer in Toronto can vary, depending on the complexity of the case, the experience of the lawyer, and the amount of time required to resolve the case. Some lawyers may charge an hourly rate, while others may offer a flat fee or a contingency fee. It is important to discuss the cost of legal services with your lawyer before retaining their services.
- What should I look for in a criminal harassment lawyer in Toronto?
When choosing a criminal harassment lawyer in Toronto, it is important to consider several factors, including:
- Experience: Look for a lawyer who has experience handling criminal harassment cases in Toronto, as they will be better equipped to navigate
- Reputation: Research the lawyer’s reputation in the legal community, and read reviews and testimonials from past clients to get a sense of their success rate and level of client satisfaction.
- Communication Skills: Look for a lawyer who communicates effectively and keeps you informed about the status of your case. A good lawyer will take the time to explain legal concepts in plain language and answer your questions in a timely and responsive manner.
- Availability: Consider the lawyer’s availability, and make sure they have the time and resources to devote to your case.
If you or someone you know has been charged with Assault, contact De Boyrie Law today for a free consultation at this link. If your matter is immediate please contact us at (416) 727-1389. De Boyrie Law serves Toronto, Vaughan, and the Greater Toronto Area.
Stacey is a student at De Boyrie Law. She is currently studying to complete the BAR and is expected to join our firm once she has completed studies.