Being charged starts a court process; it is not a finding of guilt.
The starting point
Start with the documents you received from police. Identify your next court date, your release document and every condition that applies. Missing court or breaching a release condition can create additional legal problems.
What to be careful about
Do not contact a complainant or witness if your undertaking or release order prohibits it. Do not assume indirect contact through another person is allowed. If a condition is impractical, obtain legal advice about whether a variation can be requested rather than ignoring it.
How a lawyer can assess the issue
Disclosure is the prosecution material relevant to the case. Once it is available, counsel can assess the allegations, evidence, legal issues and possible resolution or trial strategy. Early advice can also identify time-sensitive preservation or investigation issues.
Current Ontario context
Ontario Court of Justice guidance explains that criminal cases move through stages that can include first appearance, disclosure, resolution discussions, motions and trial. The exact route depends on the charge and case.
Before a consultation
Bring the documents that control the issue and a short chronology of important dates. Avoid sending original documents or unnecessary sensitive information through a general website form.