London Criminal Lawyers

London Criminal Lawyers

As London criminal lawyers, Charitsis Law provides clear legal advice, strong courtroom representation, and a focused defence strategy to help you understand your charges.

When you call, you will speak directly with a criminal defence lawyer who understands how cases are handled in the local courts. As London criminal lawyers, we provide clear legal advice to help you understand what you are facing, how the court process works, and what defence options may be available to you.

Our law practice regularly represents clients in the London Courthouse, including criminal matters heard at 80 Dundas Street. We understand how the Crown Attorney approaches cases in this jurisdiction and how to respond with an effective defence strategy.

What This Means for You

• Defence built on real courtroom experience: With over 25 years handling criminal charges in Ontario courts, we know how to assess the evidence, identify weaknesses, and build a strong defence tailored to your case. This experience allows us to respond quickly and effectively at every stage of the court process.
• Focused approach aimed at strong results: Hundreds of positive client reviews reflect consistent results across a wide range of criminal charges. Each case is approached with a clear strategy focused on having charges withdrawn, reduced, or dismissed whenever possible.
• Clear advice so you know where you stand: You will receive straightforward explanations about your charges, the evidence, and your options. This helps you make informed decisions with confidence as your case moves forward.

Charitsis Law is one of the most highly reviewed criminal defence practices in Ontario, known for strong defence work, clear communication, and reliable support during difficult situations.

If you need to speak with a criminal lawyer, call Charitsis Law at 647-930-0200

About the London Criminal Court

Criminal charges arising in London are usually handled at the courthouse located at 80 Dundas Street in downtown London. This courthouse serves the City of London and the surrounding communities of Middlesex County.

Most criminal matters for the region are handled at this location, including first appearances, bail hearings, preliminary hearings, and many criminal trials.

Criminal Courts Located at the London Courthouse

Unlike some cities where different courts operate in separate buildings, both levels of the criminal court system operate within the same courthouse in downtown London. Most criminal cases proceed through two main courts located at 80 Dundas Street:

• Ontario Court of Justice — This court handles most criminal charges arising in London and the surrounding region. Matters are usually heard before a provincial court judge without a jury. Many Criminal Code offences such as assault, impaired driving, theft, and drug offences are handled at this level.
• Superior Court of Justice — More serious indictable offences may proceed before the Superior Court of Justice. Depending on the charge, trials may proceed before a judge alone or before a judge and jury.

Our lawyers represent individuals facing criminal charges in London and understand how cases move through the local court system. Each case is reviewed carefully so clients understand the process and the legal options available.

Criminal defence requires careful preparation, experience, and a understanding of how cases are handled locally. At Charitsis Law, we bring that experience to every case—if you are facing criminal charges, call 647-930-0200 to speak with a criminal defence lawyer.

Ontario Court of Justice located at 80 Dundas Street in downtown London.

Criminal Charges We Defend in London

If you are searching for London criminal lawyers, you are likely facing a specific charge and need clear direction right away. Our lawyers represent individuals charged with criminal offences arising in London and throughout Middlesex County across a wide range of Criminal Code matters.

Common Criminal Charges We Defend

• Impaired Driving and DUI Charges: As London DUI lawyers, we review roadside stops, breath testing procedures, and the evidence relied upon by police. Allegations may involve drive over 80, care and control while impaired, or refusing to provide a breath sample. Each case is examined carefully to determine whether the evidence meets the legal requirements for the charge.
  
• Assault and Domestic Allegations: Our lawyers represent individuals facing assault and domestic assault allegations in London, including common assault, assault causing bodily harm, and uttering threats. These cases often depend on witness statements and the surrounding circumstances, so the evidence must be reviewed carefully from the outset.
  
• Serious Driving Offences: People charged with dangerous driving in London often need clear advice about how police formed their conclusions. As London dangerous driving lawyers, we examine the driving evidence, witness accounts, and the circumstances relied upon by investigators.
  
• Other Criminal Charges: Our London criminal lawyers also represent individuals facing many other criminal allegations, including offences not specifically listed above. We review the details of each case carefully, explain the legal process clearly, and develop a defence strategy tailored to the circumstances.

Charitsis Law represents individuals facing criminal charges in London and understands how cases move through the London criminal courts. Our lawyers review disclosure carefully, anticipate the procedural steps ahead, and prepare a clear defence strategy from the outset.

Delaying legal advice can result in missed disclosure issues, unfavourable bail terms, or strategic disadvantages before trial preparation begins.

Criminal Court Process in London

London Bail Hearings

If a person is not released by London Police Services after an arrest, the matter will usually proceed to a bail hearing before a justice of the peace. Bail hearings for criminal charges arising in London are typically conducted at the Ontario Court of Justice located at 80 Dundas Street in downtown London.

At a bail hearing, the court decides whether the accused person will be released while the case proceeds through the London criminal court process. Our lawyers assist with preparing a structured release plan and presenting clear arguments supporting release on bail before the court.

At a bail hearing, the court focuses on three key considerations:

• ensuring the accused attends future court dates
• protecting public safety
• maintaining confidence in the administration of justice

As London criminal lawyers, Charitsis Law works with clients and their families to prepare for bail hearings and address these issues before the hearing takes place.

Proper preparation before a bail hearing can significantly influence the outcome. If you or a family member is facing a bail hearing at the London courthouse, contact Charitsis Law at 647-930-0200 to speak with an experienced London criminal defence lawyer.

First Appearance and Disclosure Dates

The first appearance at the London criminal court is usually brief and administrative. At this stage, the Crown Attorney will ask whether you are represented by a lawyer. The Crown will also confirm that disclosure will be provided to the defence. Disclosure is the evidence the Crown intends to rely on in the case.

Disclosure may include materials such as:

• police officer notes
• witness statements
• video or audio recordings
• forensic reports and photographs

After disclosure is provided, the case is usually adjourned to a future court date so the evidence can be reviewed and legal advice obtained.

By the next appearance, the Crown generally expects that you will have spoken with a criminal defence lawyer and be prepared to discuss how the matter should proceed, including the possibility of resolution discussions or scheduling a judicial pre-trial.

Resolution Discussions and Pre-Trials

After disclosure has been reviewed, our lawyers often meet with the Crown to discuss the case. This meeting is called a Crown pre-trial.

At this stage of the London criminal court process, the defence and the Crown discuss how the matter may proceed. These discussions may include whether the case can be resolved without going to trial.

In more serious or complex cases, the court may schedule a judicial pre-trial before a judge. Judicial pre-trials are usually reserved for cases that are likely to proceed to trial. The purpose is to narrow the issues, address legal questions, and help the court manage the case efficiently.

When a Case Proceeds to Trial

If a criminal matter cannot be resolved through earlier discussions, the case may proceed to trial in the London criminal court. At trial, the Crown must present evidence and prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.

Trials require careful preparation. The evidence must be reviewed closely. Legal issues must be identified and addressed before the hearing.

Our lawyers prepare each case carefully. As London criminal lawyers, we review the disclosure in detail and develop a clear defence strategy based on the evidence. Preparation also includes planning how the case may proceed through the London criminal courts.

At Charitsis Law, trial preparation often begins well before the hearing date and may include:

• detailed review and analysis of disclosure
• preparing cross-examination of Crown witnesses
• identifying legal issues or potential Charter arguments
• assessing whether certain evidence should be challenged or excluded

Trial advocacy requires experience, preparation, and sound strategic judgment. Charitsis Law approaches every trial with a focus on carefully examining the Crown’s case and presenting a strong defence for individuals facing criminal charges in London and throughout the surrounding region.

Why a Local London Criminal Lawyer Matters

Criminal defence is not generic. While the Criminal Code is the same across Canada, the way cases are scheduled, managed, and even prosecuted can vary by courthouse.

As experienced London criminal lawyers, we have the background and experience to provide our clients with strong legal defence, built on years of experience.

Knowing the court and the people who work there, allows us as your legal representative to:

• Build strong relationships and reputations
• Insight into how criminal matters are typically structured
• Understand how the court and the crown attorney perceive cases
• Practical preparation for judicial pre-trials and trial dates
• Awareness of how disclosure is commonly organized and reviewed

Criminal charges move through defined stages, and each decision can influence the outcome. Knowing how matters progress ensures that your defence strategy is aligned with local practice.

Experience matters. Preparation matters. Strategic decision-making matters.

★★★★★ I contacted Charitsis Law during a very stressful time and was impressed by how clearly everything was explained from the beginning. The firm was professional, responsive, and helped me understand what to expect at each stage of the court process. I am very thankful for the support and representation.

Speak with a London Criminal Defence Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges in London or elsewhere in the surrounding region, getting legal advice early can make a difference in how your case moves forward.

Each stage of the criminal court process requires careful attention. This may include bail hearings, reviewing disclosure, and preparing for trial.

Speaking with an experienced London criminal lawyer can help you understand the charge and the options available to you.

To discuss your situation, contact Charitsis Law at 647-930-0200.

FAQs From Our London Criminal Lawyers

Q. What should I do if I am charged with a criminal offence in London?

A. If you are charged with a criminal offence in London, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Early legal guidance can help you understand the charge, protect your rights, and avoid mistakes that may affect your case later. A London criminal lawyer can review the circumstances of the arrest and explain how the London criminal court process may proceed.

Q. Where are criminal cases heard in London?

A. Most criminal charges arising in London and throughout the surrounding region are heard at the Ontario Court of Justice located at 80 Dundas Street in downtown London. This courthouse handles bail hearings, first appearances, and many criminal trials for the area.

Q. What happens at a bail hearing in London?

A. If a person is not released by police after an arrest, the matter will usually proceed to a bail hearing before a justice of the peace. At the bail hearing, the court decides whether the accused person can be released while the case continues through the criminal court process. The defence may present a release plan and arguments supporting release on bail.

Q. What is disclosure in a criminal case?

A. Disclosure refers to the evidence the Crown intends to rely on in the case. This may include police notes, witness statements, recordings, photographs, or forensic reports. Reviewing disclosure carefully is an important step in understanding the strength of the evidence and determining how the case may proceed.

Q. Can criminal charges in London be resolved without going to trial?

A. Yes, some criminal matters may be resolved without proceeding to trial. After disclosure is reviewed, the defence and the Crown may discuss the case during a Crown pre-trial. These discussions can sometimes lead to a resolution or help clarify the issues that would need to be addressed if the matter proceeds to trial.

Q. When does a criminal case go to trial?

A. If a criminal matter cannot be resolved through earlier discussions, the case may proceed to trial. At trial, the Crown must present evidence and prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. The defence has the opportunity to challenge the evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present legal arguments on behalf of the accused person.

Q. Why should I speak with a London criminal lawyer early?

A. Speaking with a London criminal lawyer early in the process can help you understand the charge, the court process, and the possible outcomes. Early advice may also help identify important legal issues, review the disclosure carefully, and prepare for how the case will move forward through the London criminal courts.

Contact Charitsis Law at 647-930-0200 to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you.