my legal helper
Criminal Law
If you are a self rep in a criminal legal matter in BC and need legal assistance, I offer criminal legal help for self-reps in British Columbia!
Below, you will find some links to various resources for criminal law in Canada and may be of assistance to you as a self-rep. Once you have reviewed these, and if you feel you may require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out and we can talk about your case. This is where the consultation fee applies (which is returned to you on your first invoice if you hire me to assist you!).
Federal Acts & Resources
Resources
Representing Yourself in a Criminal Trial
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer?
It depends! Some people represent themselves in their criminal matters but less so than in other areas such as family or civil law. This is due to complex issues that can arise in criminal matters such as Charter challenges. You may qualify for legal aid so always check with them first but if not, and if you cannot afford a lawyer, you can represent yourself and I may be able to help in some cases.
Where do I start?
The best place to start is with the resources above. They provide some basic information to get you started. You should start thinking about whether you can afford to hire a lawyer, or if you will apply for legal aid, or whether you will represent yourself. If you decide that you will represent yourself, then I encourage you to reach out to discuss your situation and if I can help.
What are your fees?
Fees vary depending on the services you require and the amount of time and effort you are prepared and able to provide to your criminal law matter. Some clients have more time than others with some not comfortable working with legal issues. Clients receive a contract and invoice outlining the services to be provided by me and fees before any work commences.
Can I contact the Crown?
Yes! One of the first things you should be doing once a charge has been laid against you is to contact the crown and ask to speak to the crown council assigned to your case. Be polite and let them know that you are representing yourself. Provide your contact details and ensure you get their contact information as well. As a self-rep you can contact the prosecutor.
Obtaining Disclosure?
Within a few days to a few weeks, the crown should have a disclosure package available to you. Contact the crowns office to speak to the prosecutor assigned to your case and ask for the disclosure package. This is all the information the crown has (sometime more is added later as it is revealed) related to the case against you. I cannot stress how important it is to get this package so you can review the charges and evidence.
Going to Court
As I am not a lawyer, I am not technically representing you. As such there is no legal authority that allows me to appear for or with you in court for a criminal matter. I can prepare you and provide coaching on the legal matters and processes that you will encounter in a court room and hearing. Most criminal cases are resolved without a trial and in some cases you can appear by video or phone for hearings.
What can you help me with?
I can assist with most simple criminal matters. What constitutes simple can depend on a number of factors such as how the crown is electing to proceed (summarily or by indictment), Charter issues, or a clients previous experience representing themselves in a criminal matter. I can assess the complexity of your case once we talk though!
What else should I know?
There are different sections of the criminal code that apply for adult and youth offenders. The Courts of BC website gives a broad overview of the different types of courts in BC and how the crown may proceed depending on the seriousness of a charge. This is also a good site to review if you’re just getting started as a self rep.