Criminal Matters
If you are convicted of a summary criminal offence (around 80% of criminal offences), we can defend you against any allegations. Our office specializes in numerous types of cases including domestic assault, domestic violence, theft under, etc.
Legal advice can ensure your defence is successful and increase your chances of a complete withdrawal of charges or a lighter sentence.
A summary offence is a criminal act that can be proceeded with summarily, without the right to a jury trial and/or indictment (required for an indictable offence). It is the least serious kind of criminal offence under Canada’s Criminal Code. It is also known as a “petty crime”, for example, disturbing the peace.
Here is some information that you should know if you charged with committing a summary offence.
- These offences usually carry a maximum punishment of six months in jail or a $5,000 fine.
- Alternative measures can be considered for less serious summary offences.
- Trials are held before a judge in the Provincial Court.
- Police cannot take your fingerprints.
- As an adult, you may apply to receive a record suspension three years after you complete your sentence.
Karb Law provides criminal representation in summary-conviction matters before the Ontario Court of Justice, within the scope of a licensed paralegal. A summary-conviction charge or a resulting criminal record can affect your employment, your ability to travel, and your immigration status in Canada — so early, informed representation matters. Angelina Shuster, a paralegal licensed by the Law Society of Ontario, has represented clients in the Greater Toronto Area for over 25 years and will assess your matter honestly before recommending next steps.
Frequently asked questions
What criminal matters can a licensed paralegal handle in Ontario?
A licensed paralegal may represent you in summary-conviction offences under the Criminal Code (generally those with a maximum penalty of up to six months), as well as provincial offences. Charges that proceed by indictment must be handled by a lawyer — our legal team can assist with those as well.
Will a criminal record affect my Canadian immigration status?
It can. A conviction may make a foreign national or permanent resident criminally inadmissible to Canada, and can trigger a removal order. If you are not a citizen, tell us before resolving any charge so the immigration consequences are considered first.
Do you offer a free assessment for criminal matters?
Yes. Use our free assessment or call (416) 835-6989 to describe your situation. We review the charge, the likely process, and how it may affect your record and status.
Where do you appear?
We represent clients at courts and tribunals throughout the Greater Toronto Area, from our office at 10211 Yonge Street, Suite 205, Richmond Hill.
Do you need an immigration lawyer?
Karb Law provides criminal legal services across the Greater Toronto Area. Angelina Shuster, a paralegal licensed by the Law Society of Ontario, represents clients in summary-conviction matters, and our team assists with the full range of your criminal matter. Contact us to discuss your charge and the best way forward.
Official resources
External links are provided for general information only and are not legal advice.
