Minor Criminal Offences
Minor criminal offence representation in Ontario
Some criminal charges can be handled by a licensed paralegal. Butler Legal Services confirms at the start whether yours is one of them.
Scope matters here. Paralegals may only represent clients on summary conviction criminal offences where the maximum penalty is six months in jail or less. Whether a charge qualifies depends on the specific offence and how the Crown proceeds, so eligibility is confirmed at the very start. If it does not qualify, that is explained and a lawyer is recommended.
What this service covers
- Reviewing the charge, the paperwork you were given and the dates you must attend
- Requesting and reviewing disclosure
- Explaining your options, the risks and the possible outcomes
- Speaking with the Crown on your behalf
- Representation at appearances and at trial
What matters early
- Any court date on your paperwork is mandatory, so keep every document you were given.
- Conditions you agreed to, such as an undertaking, must be followed exactly.
- Share the charge details before the first court date, so options are ready when you attend.
If a lawyer is needed
Serious charges and anything outside a paralegal’s permitted scope need a lawyer. Butler Legal Services will tell you directly rather than accept a retainer it cannot properly act on.
Facing a charge? Start with the paperwork.
Send the details you were given. Whether it falls within paralegal scope is confirmed first.