SUDBURY 705-560-3333 | Toll Free 1-877-767-6356
VAL CARON 705-897-7272 | Toll Free 1-877-767-6356
Criminal Law
Professional Criminal Defence Lawyer in Sudbury
At Paquette & Paquette, we focus on delivering quality representation in criminal trials, appeals, and professional disciplinary hearings. Our criminal defence lawyers in Sudbury and Val Caron are prepared to defend all types of criminal cases, including:
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Theft and fraud
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Homicide
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DUI/impaired driving
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Narcotics and drug-related offences
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Domestic and sexual assault
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Weapons-related offences
We understand the challenges and apprehensions individuals face when navigating the legal system. Our team is committed to your well-being and offers a personalized approach to guide you through every stage of the legal process. With your rights and interests at the forefront, you can rely on us to protect your legal standing and work diligently toward a favourable resolution.
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Embark on a solid legal defence by contacting our experienced criminal defence lawyers in Sudbury and Val Caron. Schedule an appointment today to begin the journey towards safeguarding your future and asserting your rights.
What Do Criminal Lawyers Do?
Criminal lawyers provide reliable advice and legal counsel to achieve the best results for their client’s criminal cases. They must understand their client’s goals, offer a reasonable action plan, and help manage their expectations. Part of their job is to help their clients understand criminal law and court procedures.
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Our lawyers, Edmond J. Paquette and Darcy Haines specialize in criminal law and have years of experience dealing with criminal cases and helping countless clients. They are well-versed in legal systems and will explain criminal justice proceedings thoroughly. Get in touch with us to know how we can help you protect your rights.
Why You Need a Criminal Defence Lawyer
When you hire a criminal defence lawyer, you can trust him or her to have your back and guide you throughout the process. Our criminal lawyers will offer expert legal assistance. From filing the correct paperwork to attending hearings, we will be by your side and ensure your rights are protected.
A criminal defence lawyer can help you:
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Follow court procedures
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Examine the evidence
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Protect your rights and your future
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Consider all available settlement options
Hiring a defence lawyer early in the legal process can significantly impact the outcome of your case. It is advisable to consult legal counsel as soon as you are contacted by police, even before any formal charges are laid. Early intervention allows your lawyer to make sure your legal rights are respected from the outset, provide guidance during interrogations, and possibly prevent charges from being filed. Waiting until after an arrest or formal charge could limit your legal options and delay the development of a solid defence strategy.
Understanding when to hire a defence lawyer is crucial. Learn more about the right time to seek legal help in our blog post: When Should You Hire a Criminal Lawyer?
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence, call us and we will do what we can to clear your name.
Criminal Law Practice Areas
Here are our criminal law practice areas:
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Theft and fraud: Defending individuals facing allegations related to theft and fraudulent activities, providing robust legal support to ensure a fair and just resolution.
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Homicide: Offering strategic legal defence for cases involving homicide charges, ensuring a comprehensive representation throughout the legal proceedings.
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DUI/impaired driving: Assisting clients charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or impaired driving, utilizing expert legal strategies to protect their rights and advocate for the best possible outcome.
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Narcotics and drug-related offences: Expertly handling cases involving narcotics and drug-related charges, navigating the complexities of drug laws and regulations to secure a favourable result.
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Domestic and sexual assault: Providing compassionate yet assertive representation for individuals accused of domestic violence or sexual assault, working tirelessly to safeguard their rights and future.
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Weapons-related offences: Defending clients facing weapons-related charges, leveraging extensive legal know-how to build a strong defence and advocate for a just resolution.
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In each of these practice areas, Paquette & Paquette is committed to offering personalized guidance to reduce the stress associated with legal proceedings. Our expert criminal defence lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the most favourable outcome possible.
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Contact our legal team in Sudbury and Val Caron to schedule an appointment and receive strategic legal support tailored to your case.
What Is the Procedure for a Criminal Trial?
Each stage of the legal process carries distinct responsibilities, and informed legal support can make all the difference.
Arrest
Legal proceedings begin when law enforcement believes there is enough evidence to justify an arrest. You will be informed of your charges and your right to remain silent. Depending on the situation, you may be released on bail or held in custody until trial.
Disclosure
After an arrest, the prosecution must provide the defence with all relevant evidence. This process, known as disclosure, includes police notes, witness statements, surveillance footage, and other documentation. Your lawyer will examine the materials thoroughly and ensure any missing or incomplete evidence is addressed.
Your First Appearance
Your first appearance in court is a procedural step where the charges are read, and the judge asks how you plead—guilty or not guilty. During this stage, your criminal defence lawyer in Sudbury will ensure that your rights are protected, and they may request more time to review disclosure or discuss a possible resolution.
The Trial
If your case goes to trial, the prosecutors must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The trial involves several steps, including opening statements, witness testimonies, cross-examinations, and closing arguments. Throughout the trial, your criminal defence lawyer will work on challenging the evidence against you, highlighting inconsistencies, and presenting your side of the story.
Your Defence
Your lawyer will present evidence that counters the prosecution’s case as part of your defence. This may involve presenting witness testimony, expert opinions, or highlighting issues with how the evidence was gathered. Your lawyer will also make legal arguments that could result in a dismissal or reduction of charges.
The Verdict
After hearing all the evidence, the judge or jury will decide if the prosecutor has proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If found not guilty, you will be acquitted, and the charges will be dismissed. If found guilty, the court will schedule a sentencing hearing.
Remember that hiring a criminal defence lawyer in Sudbury early on can significantly influence the outcome of your case. Contact us today to discuss your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to legal representation in criminal cases, we are often asked:
Do I Need a Criminal Defence Lawyer? Can’t I Represent Myself?
If you’re facing criminal charges, it’s strongly recommended to hire a lawyer. Criminal law involves complex rules and high-stakes consequences that are difficult to navigate without experience. While self-representation may appear cost-effective, it often results in limited legal options. A criminal lawyer will help you understand your case, explain the potential risks and penalties, and guide you toward the most strategic path to avoid conviction and potential jail time.
What Is Disclosure? Why Do I Need a Criminal Lawyer to Handle It for Me?
Disclosure is the evidence the prosecutor relies on to prove the criminal charges against you. It usually consists of a record of arrest, police officer notes, synopsis of the allegations, witness statements, photos, videos, etc. As per Canadian law, you have the constitutional right to defend any criminal or quasi-criminal charges made against you. The prosecutor must provide all the evidence it intends to use against you and other relevant information.
An experienced criminal lawyer can help examine the evidence and materials and ascertain if any important information is missing. In such cases, a lawyer can help submit a disclosure request and appear on your behalf to ensure the correct comments are put on record and attribute any delays to the prosecutor.
How Can a Criminal Record Affect Me?
A criminal record can affect you for the rest of your life. Some of its detrimental effects include:
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Issues with employment and volunteer opportunities.
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Problems with immigration and travelling outside of Canada
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Restrictions with entering certain countries.
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It can be used to discredit you in future court proceedings.
Call us if you have any more questions.
Contact a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Sudbury
When facing allegations, choose Paquette & Paquette for trusted legal representation. Our extensive experience equips us to dismantle false accusations and advocate your innocence with unwavering resolve. With over 50 years of navigating criminal law, we have an intimate understanding of its dynamics.
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Whether you require legal guidance, resolute defence against charges, or a resounding voice in the face of legal adversity, we are your trusted advocates. At Paquette & Paquette, we forge lasting bonds with our clients based on trust and results.
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Moreover, our commitment goes beyond words – we only stand to gain when justice prevails. We are not just legal representatives but your staunch advocates, committed to safeguarding your rights. We aim to secure the comprehensive resolution you deserve.
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The path to reclaiming your freedom starts today. Contact us to explore the full spectrum of our criminal law services.
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Connect with Paquette & Paquette – where five decades of legal mastery await your call.