CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYERS
Your Criminal Harassment Lawyer Serving Southern Ontario
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Experienced Criminal Harassment Criminal Defence Lawyers
The charge of criminal harassment is more prevalent than ever in Ontario’s courts, and it carries with it a stigmatizing effect that many people would like to avoid. Criminal harassment convictions can cause a person to be unattractive for potential employers, and make it difficult to get into the United States. Criminal harassment convictions are also associated with a ten-year mandatory weapons ban. The Canadian DNA database will be regularly updated by prosecutors.
A finding of guilt can have severe consequences. It is best to consult an experienced criminal attorney when facing this kind of charge.
What is a Charge of Criminal Harassment Under the Criminal Code?
Criminal Harassment is found in Part VII of the Criminal Code under section 264, which states:
264 (1) No person shall, without lawful authority, and knowing that another person is harassed or being reckless as to whether the other person is harassed, engage in conduct referred to in subsection (2) that causes that person reasonably, in all the circumstances, to fear for their safety or the safety of anyone known to them.
Prohibited Conduct (s. 264(2)):
The conduct referred to in subsection (1) includes:
(a) repeatedly following another person or anyone known to them;
(b) repeatedly communicating with, either directly or indirectly, another person or anyone known to them;
(c) watching or besetting the dwelling-house or workplace of another person or anyone known to them; or
(d) engaging in threatening conduct directed at another person or any member of their family.
In general, criminal harassment involves repeatedly following, communicating with, watching, or threatening a person directly or indirectly, in a manner that causes them to fear for their safety or the safety of someone they know.
How Serious is the Offence?
Under s. 264(3), criminal harassment is classified as a “hybrid” offence, meaning the Crown may choose to prosecute it either summarily or by indictment, depending on the circumstances and severity of the conduct.
Examples of Criminal Harassment:
- Repeated unwanted contact through calls, texts, or emails
- Following someone from place to place
- Unwanted surveillance (e.g., waiting outside someone’s home or workplace)
- Sending unsolicited gifts or messages, even if not overtly threatening
Elements of the Offence
To secure a conviction for criminal harassment, the Crown must prove both the actus reus (guilty act) and the mens rea (guilty mind) beyond a reasonable doubt.
How We Defend You
- Lawful Authority/No Harassment: Lawful authority makes otherwise prohibited conduct legally permissible (R. v. Sillipp, 1997 ABCA 346). A possible defense could argue that the conduct in question was not prohibited or had a lawful excuse, such as a legitimate purpose other than harassment.
- No Reasonable Fear: The complainant’s fear must be reasonable and caused by the specific conduct alleged in the charge (R. v. Weinstein). If the complainant’s fear is not objectively reasonable, this could be grounds for a defense.
- Lack of Intent: The defense may argue that the accused lacked awareness of the harassment or acted without recklessness, and did not intend to instill fear in the complainant. While the actions themselves may meet the definition of harassment, proving a lack of the necessary mens rea could prevent a conviction.
- Applicable Charter Arguments: Violations of your Charter rights before or during your arrest could provide grounds for excluding evidence. If the police failed to respect your rights, this could bolster your defense.
Choosing the Right Criminal Harassment Lawyer For You
Criminal Harassment charges are worrisome enough, you don’t want to have uncertainty about your legal representation. When looking for a lawyer, select someone who has experience dealing with Criminal Harassment cases, preferably in local courts. They must be aware of how the Crown generally deals with these charges and what approach works best in your case.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions: How frequently do they handle Criminal Harassment cases? What results have they obtained for clients in such circumstances? How available will they be during your case?
Employing someone purely by location or cost can result in frustration. Though looking for a domestic assault lawyer near me might appear to be convenient, prioritize instead the tested results and positive client reviews.
Conclusion: Protect Your Future with A. Dhillon Law
Criminal Harassment offenses are more than a legal matter—they’re personal, stressful, and potentially life-altering. The road ahead may seem unclear, but you don’t have to travel it by yourself. When your future hangs in the balance, you need an attorney who is attentive, experienced, and committed to safeguarding your rights.
A. Dhillon Law provides tough, results-oriented defense for those accused of Criminal Harassment. With extensive knowledge of the local legal system and a dedication to one-on-one service, A. Dhillon Law is the law firm individuals rely on when it counts the most.
Don’t wait for things to get worse. If you’re searching for an Criminal Harassment lawyer in Southern Ontario, take the first step now—contact A. Dhillon Law for a confidential consultation.
Choosing the Right Criminal Harassment Lawyer For You
Criminal Harassment charges are worrisome enough, you don’t want to have uncertainty about your legal representation. When looking for a lawyer, select someone who has experience dealing with assault cases, preferably in local courts. They must be aware of how the Crown generally deals with these charges and what approach works best in your case.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions: How frequently do they handle Criminal Harassment cases? What results have they obtained for clients in such circumstances? How available will they be during your case?
Employing someone purely by location or cost can result in frustration. Though looking for a Criminal Harassment lawyer near me might appear to be convenient, prioritize instead the tested results and positive client reviews.
Conclusion: Protect Your Future with A. Dhillon Law
Criminal Harassment offenses are more than a legal matter—they’re personal, stressful, and potentially life-altering. The road ahead may seem unclear, but you don’t have to travel it by yourself. When your future hangs in the balance, you need an attorney who is attentive, experienced, and committed to safeguarding your rights.
A. Dhillon Law provides tough, results-oriented defense for those accused of Criminal Harassment. With extensive knowledge of the local legal system and a dedication to one-on-one service, A. Dhillon Law is the law firm individuals rely on when it counts the most.
Don’t wait for things to get worse. If you’re searching for a Criminal Harassment lawyer in Southern Ontario, take the first step now—contact A. Dhillon Law for a confidential consultation.
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He takes the time to understand the unique needs and concerns of each case.
“Akash genuinely cares about his clients and consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism. Akash is extremely approachable, which fosters an open dialogue and creates a comfortable environment for discussing any issues or questions.”
He takes the time to understand the unique needs and concerns of each case.
“Akash genuinely cares about his clients and consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism. Akash is extremely approachable, which fosters an open dialogue and creates a comfortable environment for discussing any issues or questions.”
Hons B.A., J.D. | Criminal Defence Lawyer
Akash Dhillon
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