Ottawa Criminal Lawyers

Ottawa Criminal Lawyers

Charitsis Law is a team of experienced Ottawa criminal lawyers providing legal representation for individuals facing criminal charges in Ottawa and throughout Eastern Ontario.

If you are searching for an Ottawa criminal lawyer, you are likely dealing with a serious situation and need clear direction quickly. Our criminal defence lawyers provide experienced guidance at every stage of the Ottawa criminal court process.

• Criminal defence experience: Decades of experience defending individuals facing serious and complex criminal charges, supported by extensive courtroom advocacy and a strong understanding of how criminal cases proceed through Ottawa criminal courts.
• Courtroom knowledge: Deep knowledge of criminal procedure, evidence, and defence strategy developed through years of representing individuals charged with Criminal Code offences in Ontario courts.
• Client protection: A strong commitment to protecting you, your reputation, and your future at every stage of the case.

Criminal Courts in Ottawa

Criminal charges arising in Ottawa are typically handled at the Ontario Court of Justice located at 161 Elgin Street in downtown Ottawa. This courthouse serves as the primary Ottawa criminal court for matters arising throughout the city, including court appearances, preliminary hearings, and many criminal trials.

More serious criminal matters may proceed to a different court depending on the type of charge. The Ottawa criminal court system generally operates through two main courts located in the same courthouse complex:

• Ontario Court of Justice: This court handles most criminal charges arising in Ottawa. Matters are typically heard before a provincial court judge without a jury. Many Criminal Code offences such as assault, impaired driving, theft, and other criminal charges 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.

As Ottawa criminal lawyers, we understand how cases move through the courts at the Elgin Street courthouse and guide our clients through each stage of the criminal court process.

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 161 Elgin Street in downtown Ottawa.

Criminal Charges We Defend in Ottawa

If you are searching for an Ottawa criminal lawyer, you are likely facing a specific charge and need clear direction right away. Our Ottawa criminal lawyers defend individuals charged with criminal offences arising in Ottawa and throughout Eastern Ontario across a wide range of Criminal Code charges.

• Impaired Driving & DUI Charges: Defending impaired driving allegations including drive over 80 mgs, care and control while impaired, and refuse breathalyzer tests. Each case is reviewed carefully with attention to roadside stops, breath testing procedures, and the evidence relied upon by police.
• Assault & Domestic Allegations: Providing advice and legal guidance to individuals facing allegations including domestic assault, common assault, assault causing bodily harm, and uttering threats. Each case is reviewed carefully with attention to witness statements, police evidence, and the surrounding circumstances.
• Driving Charges: Defending driving-related allegations including dangerous driving, driving while prohibited, and fail to stop after an accident. Each case is reviewed carefully with attention to the driving evidence, witness statements, and the circumstances relied upon by police.
• Other Criminal Charges — including offences not specifically listed above. Our lawyers can review the details of your case, explain your legal options, and develop a defence strategy tailored to your situation. If your charge is not listed, we can still provide clear legal guidance and representation.

Charitsis Law represents individuals facing criminal charges in Ottawa and understands how cases move through the Ottawa criminal court system. As Ottawa criminal lawyers, we anticipate procedural steps, review disclosure carefully, and prepare a focused 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 Ottawa

Ottawa Bail Hearings

If a person is not released by Ottawa Police after an arrest, the matter will usually proceed to a bail hearing before a justice of the peace. Bail hearings for Ottawa criminal charges are typically conducted at the Ontario Court of Justice located at 161 Elgin Street.

At a bail hearing, the court decides whether the accused person will be released while the case proceeds through the Ottawa criminal court process. As Ottawa criminal lawyers, we help prepare a structured release plan and present arguments supporting release on bail.

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

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

First Appearance and Disclosure Dates

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

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 typically adjourned to a future court date so the evidence can be reviewed and legal advice obtained.

The Crown generally expects that by the next appearance 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

As Ottawa criminal lawyers as your case progress we’ll usually have a discussion with the Crown after disclosure has been reviewed, called a pre-trial hearing.

At this stage of the Ottawa criminal court process, discussions typically take place between the defence and the Crown regarding how the case may proceed, including whether the matter can be resolved without proceeding to trial.

In more serious or complex matters, the court may schedule a judicial pre-trial before a judge. Judicial pre-trials are generally reserved for cases that are likely to proceed to trial and are intended 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 Ottawa 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.

As Ottawa criminal lawyers, we prepare every case carefully. We review the evidence. We develop a clear defence strategy. We prepare for how the case will proceed through the Ottawa courts.

At Charitsis Law, trial preparation 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 Toronto.

Why a Local Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa Criminal Defence Lawyer

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

Every stage of the criminal court process requires careful attention. This includes bail hearings, disclosure review, and trial preparation.

Speaking with an experienced Ottawa 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 Ottawa Criminal Lawyers

Q. When should I contact an Ottawa criminal lawyer after being charged?

A. You should contact an Ottawa criminal lawyer as soon as possible after being charged or contacted by police. Early legal advice helps protect your rights and allows your lawyer to begin preparing your defence before the case moves further through the court process.

Q. What court handles criminal charges in Ottawa?

A. Most criminal charges in Ottawa are heard at the Ontario Court of Justice located at 161 Elgin Street. More serious indictable offences may proceed before the Superior Court of Justice at the same courthouse.

Q. Do I need an Ottawa criminal lawyer if I plan to plead not guilty?

A. Yes. If you intend to contest a criminal charge, working with an Ottawa criminal lawyer is important. A lawyer can review the disclosure, identify legal issues, and challenge the evidence presented by the Crown.

Q. What types of charges do Ottawa criminal lawyers defend?

A. Ottawa criminal lawyers defend individuals charged with a wide range of Criminal Code offences. These may include assault, domestic assault, impaired driving, drug offences, theft, fraud, and weapons-related charges.

Q. What happens after I am charged with a criminal offence in Ottawa?

A. After a charge is laid, the case usually begins with a first appearance in the Ottawa criminal court. The process may include disclosure review, pre-trial discussions, and possibly a trial if the case is not resolved earlier.

Q. Can Ottawa criminal lawyers help with bail hearings?

A. Yes. Ottawa criminal lawyers help prepare release plans, identify suitable sureties, and present arguments to the court supporting release on bail.

Q. How long does a criminal case take in Ottawa?

A. The timeline for a criminal case in Ottawa depends on the charge, the evidence, and court scheduling. Some cases resolve quickly, while others may take several months or longer if the matter proceeds to trial.

Q. How can an Ottawa criminal lawyer help with my case?

A. An Ottawa criminal lawyer helps protect your rights and ensures the Crown must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. This includes reviewing evidence, identifying legal issues, and preparing a defence strategy focused on achieving the best possible outcome.

Q. What should I do if I am arrested by Ottawa Police?

A. If you are arrested by Ottawa Police, you have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with a lawyer. It is usually best not to answer questions about the incident until you have received legal advice from an Ottawa criminal lawyer.

Q. Can criminal charges in Ottawa be withdrawn or dismissed?

A. In some cases, criminal charges may be withdrawn or dismissed if there are problems with the evidence or legal issues affecting the prosecution. Ottawa criminal lawyers review the disclosure carefully and may raise these issues during discussions with the Crown.

Q. What is disclosure in a criminal case in Ottawa?

A. Disclosure is the evidence the Crown intends to rely on in court. This may include police notes, witness statements, photographs, and video recordings. Ottawa criminal lawyers review disclosure carefully to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and prepare a defence strategy.

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