Arranging Representation
An arrest may leave a person trying to find a lawyer while family members gather information about what has happened. The first conversation should establish the known charges, whether the person is in custody and any approaching court date. Rana and her team use that information to identify the urgent work and explain the proposed representation.
A consultation provides an opportunity to discuss the charge and the help needed. Fees, the scope of the retainer and the next steps are discussed before representation is agreed.
Preparing for a Bail Hearing
If someone is being held for bail, call 416.821.2529 rather than wait for a calendar appointment. The firm takes after-hours calls for urgent bail matters and represents clients at weekend bail hearings. Email enquiries are not monitored continuously.
Preparation involves understanding the allegations and concerns about release, then gathering information that addresses them. Rana and her team assess proposed living arrangements, employment and available support, including a potential surety where appropriate. A workable proposal must account for the person’s circumstances; release cannot be promised. The firm will confirm availability and arrangements for the hearing directly.
Understanding Release Conditions
Release paperwork may contain restrictions on contact, where a person can live or where they may go. It may also set out court and fingerprinting dates. Keep every page and seek advice about anything unclear.
A partner’s or another person’s permission does not itself change a no-contact condition. If a restriction creates a problem at home or work, Rana and her team can review its terms and assess the lawful route to seek a change. Continue to follow the existing terms unless and until they are lawfully varied.
Examining the Allegation
The firm represents clients facing assault and domestic assault allegations, sexual offences, impaired driving, drug offences, firearms and weapons charges, and fraud, forgery and counterfeit-money allegations. The charge determines which legal issues need attention; the evidence determines how those issues can be addressed.
Disclosure is the material provided by the Crown Attorney’s office about the case. Rana and her team review it alongside the client’s account, identify relevant missing information and assess whether additional records or expert assistance are needed. Messages, recordings or documents may help establish a sequence of events or test a disputed account. Preserve material already in your possession without changing or deleting it, and discuss it with your lawyer.
Advice should explain both the strengths and the difficulties in the case. Where appropriate, the firm discusses resolution with the Crown Attorney. If the charge proceeds to trial, preparation focuses on the evidence, questioning and legal arguments needed to advance the defence. The client’s decision should follow an informed assessment of the options and potential consequences.
Preparing for Your Next Appearance
Rana and her team review what must be addressed before the next date and explain what the client needs to do. Confirm the date, location and attendance requirements on your documents and any later court directions. Do not assume that retaining a lawyer automatically excuses attendance or that the appearance will be online.
For a case scheduled at the Newmarket courthouse, the address is 50 Eagle Street West. The official court links below provide location and attendance information. Confirm the arrangements for your own case with your lawyer or court staff.
Discuss Representation
Call Us or Book a Telephone Consultation to discuss the charge and the help you need. Have your charge documents, release paperwork, next court date and any disclosure received available. Raise any urgent deadline or restriction at the start of the conversation so the firm can address the immediate priorities.
Questions About Representation
How do I arrange a consultation?
Book a Telephone Consultation using the calendar or call the firm. Have your charge documents, release paperwork and next court date available. For an urgent bail matter, call directly.
Can a family member call if someone is in custody?
Yes. Have the person’s name, known charges and information about where they are being held available. The firm can discuss the steps needed to arrange representation and confirm availability.
What if a release condition is difficult to follow?
Seek legal advice promptly. The available procedure depends on the release document and the change sought. Do not treat an informal agreement with another person as a change to your conditions.
Should I wait until I receive disclosure to contact a lawyer?
No. Contact the firm with the documents you have and your next court date. Immediate issues and the proposed retainer can be discussed while further material is being obtained.