I have not been charged yet, but I have some questions.
If you have been charged or are being investigated, hiring a Calgary criminal defence lawyer is important. I can explain the strategy for fighting these charges, the repercussions of a guilty plea, the nature of a peace bond if applicable, and other related aspects of your charges. Contact us now at 587-888-7149 for a free consultation.
I have not been charged but I have questions.
The police may contact you to advise that they are investigating a matter, but that they are not yet at the stage of charging you. Or they may simply ask you to come in for questioning so that they can “get your side of the story”. In that situation, contact me immediately.
The police will often attempt to make you feel like it would be in your best interest to speak with them. Having the appropriate pre-charge advice can be integral to ensuring that you do not say anything that can be used against you later. Give me a call and through a free initial consultation we can determine if that is the best course of action for you. See my article on pre-charge advice.
What is the difference between being charged with a criminal offence and being convicted?
Being charged with a criminal offence is the first step in the criminal justice process and usually occurs when the police arrest and release you, or simply charge you without an arrest. Your documentation or release papers from the police will specify the offence(s) you have been charged with. It lets you know what you will be facing in the courts, in other words, what they allege you have done that is illegal. These charges must be proven in court by the Crown prosecutor beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you are found guilty and the offence is proven beyond a reasonable doubt, or you plead guilty to the charge(s), that is the point at which a conviction is reached. A conviction thus means you have been found guilty or that you plead guilty in a court. Remember though, you are presumed innocent until found guilty and that is where my assistance as an experienced criminal lawyer will help you defend against your charge(s).