Bail hearings & reviews
Release plans, surety preparation, bail hearings, and variations of restrictive conditions.
1183 Finch Ave W Ste 505, North York, ON M3J 2G2, Canada Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Sat & Sun closed
Practice area · Criminal defence
Criminal charges, defended properly from the first appearance
A charge is not a conviction. Olwedo Law Professional Corporation reviews the disclosure, tests how the evidence was obtained, and pushes for the outcome that protects your record, your work and your status in Canada.
What is actually at stake
For most people the sentence is only part of the problem. A criminal record can close doors to employment, licensing, travel to the United States, and — for newcomers — permanent residence, citizenship, or the right to remain in Canada at all. Those consequences are considered from the first appearance, not after a plea.
The office reviews Crown disclosure line by line, identifies Charter issues in how evidence was gathered, and negotiates with the Crown from a prepared position rather than a hopeful one. Where a fair resolution is not available, the matter is taken to trial.
Criminal matters handled
Assault & domestic matters
Assault, threats, and domestic-related charges, including their overlap with family law proceedings.
Theft, fraud & property
Theft under and over, shoplifting, mischief, and fraud allegations.
Drug offences
Possession and trafficking allegations under the CDSA, including search and seizure challenges.
Youth charges (YCJA)
Defence for young persons aged 12 to 17 under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, pursuing extrajudicial measures wherever the facts allow.
Immigration consequences
Advice on how a charge or plea affects status, sponsorship, and admissibility — handled in-house.
How it works
A clear path from first call to decision
- 01
Immediate advice
Conditions, release terms and the next court date are reviewed before anything is said to police or the Crown.
- 02
Disclosure review
The Crown's evidence is obtained and examined for gaps, Charter breaches and weak proof.
- 03
Crown resolution
Pre-trial discussions aim at withdrawal, diversion, a peace bond, or a reduced charge where appropriate.
- 04
Trial
If no fair resolution exists, the case is argued in the Ontario Court of Justice or Superior Court.
Answers
Criminal defence questions people search
What should I do if I have been charged with a criminal offence in Toronto?+
Say nothing to police beyond identifying yourself, ask to speak to counsel, and call counsel before any statement or interview. Then gather your release documents, bail conditions and next court date so they can be reviewed right away.
Do I need a criminal counsel for a first offence?+
Even a first, seemingly minor charge can result in a criminal record that affects employment, travel and immigration status. Counsel can often resolve first-offence matters through diversion, withdrawal or a peace bond where the facts support it.
Can a criminal charge affect my immigration status in Canada?+
Yes. Convictions — and sometimes the charge itself — can trigger inadmissibility, jeopardize permanent residence applications, or lead to removal proceedings. Because Olwedo Law Professional Corporation practises immigration law daily, criminal matters are handled with those consequences in view from day one.
My child was arrested — how is youth court different?+
Young persons aged 12 to 17 are dealt with under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which emphasizes rehabilitation, restricts publication and record access, and favours extrajudicial measures — cautions, referrals and community programs — where the facts allow. Statements taken without a proper caution and a chance to consult counsel and a parent can often be challenged.
What happens at a bail hearing in Ontario?+
The court decides whether you are released pending trial and on what conditions, including whether a surety is required. Preparation of a workable release plan before the hearing is usually what makes the difference.
How much does a criminal defence counsel cost in Toronto?+
Fees depend on the charge, the number of court appearances, and whether the matter resolves or proceeds to trial. The fee for each stage is explained before that stage begins.
Will my case go to trial?+
Most matters resolve before trial through disclosure review, Crown pre-trial discussions, or a resolution position. Where the Crown cannot prove its case or the resolution offered is unfair, the matter is taken to trial.
General information only — not legal advice. Every case turns on its own facts.
Speak with the firm
Tell us about your case. We'll tell you where you stand.
Deadlines in all matters move quickly. Send a short summary and the office will respond with next steps — or call now and speak to someone today.
Office
1183 Finch Ave W, Suite 505
North York, ON M3J 2G2, Canada
Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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