Facing Criminal Charges in Oshawa? Get the Defence You Need
Protect your rights. Know where you stand. Take the next step with confidence.
Being charged with a criminal offence can bring uncertainty about your future, your upcoming court appearances, and the potential consequences for your career, reputation, and personal life. Understanding your rights and legal options is an important first step toward making informed decisions about your defence.
At Goodman Berman, Barristers, we provide criminal defence representation to individuals facing charges in Oshawa, Ontario, and surrounding communities. We take the time to understand your circumstances, explain the legal process, and help you explore the options available to you.
You are presumed innocent. You deserve to understand your rights and have your case taken seriously.
Criminal Charges We Defend in Oshawa
Facing criminal allegations can raise serious concerns about your freedom, reputation, and future. Whether you’re dealing with an assault charge, a drug offence, an impaired driving allegation, or a matter involving theft or fraud, understanding your rights and available options is essential.
At Goodman Berman, Barristers, we assess the circumstances of your case, carefully review the available evidence, and consider the relevant law to develop a defence strategy suited to your situation.
Not sure how your charge is classified? Contact our office to discuss whether we may be able to assist.
Discuss Your Charge With a LawyerWhy Choose Goodman Berman, Barristers?
You need a lawyer who will take the time to understand your situation and explain how the law applies to your case.
- A Defence Strategy Tailored to You
- Direct, Honest Legal Advice
- Careful Examination of the Evidence
- Respect and Discretion
- Guidance at Every Stage
- Local Representation in Oshawa, Ontario
Criminal Defence Lawyers Who May Represent You
What Happens After You Contact Us?
1
Call Us
Free, confidential, no obligation
2
We review your case
Understand your charges & options
3
We defend you
Direct access to your lawyer throughout
What to Expect When You Work With a Criminal Defence Lawyer
Being accused of a criminal offence can leave you uncertain about your next move. At Goodman Berman, Barristers, we aim to make the process more manageable by providing practical legal guidance, explaining your choices, and helping you understand what lies ahead.
Start With a Conversation
Reach out to our team to discuss your situation. We’ll ask about the allegations, any scheduled court appearances, and any immediate issues that may require attention.
Get a Clear Picture of Your Legal Position
We’ll discuss the criminal process, explain the potential implications of the charge, and identify the information needed to assess your circumstances and legal options.
Take a Closer Look at Your Case
Once representation is confirmed, we’ll examine the available disclosure and evidence, evaluate the relevant legal issues, and consider factors that may influence how your case proceeds.
Explore Your Defence Options
Every case requires an individual assessment. We’ll discuss potential approaches, explain the considerations involved in each option, and help you understand the possible risks and implications before making important decisions.
Navigate the Proceedings With Guidance
As your case progresses, we’ll help you prepare for court appearances, understand procedural requirements, and stay informed about the decisions and next steps relevant to your defence.
A Defence Approach Built Around Your Case
The right legal approach depends on the specific allegations, the available evidence, and the circumstances surrounding the charge. Our focus is on helping you understand the issues that matter, the options that may be available, and the potential consequences of different courses of action.
During your consultation, we’ll take time to address your questions, discuss your concerns, and identify the information needed to evaluate your case. Although no lawyer can guarantee a particular outcome, informed legal advice can help you approach the process with greater clarity and make decisions about your next steps.
You do not need to know all the answers before speaking with a lawyer.
Understanding Criminal Defence Lawyer Fees in Oshawa
Choosing a criminal defence lawyer is an important step when facing criminal charges. Understanding the potential cost of legal representation can help you evaluate your options and make informed decisions. Fees vary depending on the nature of the allegations, the complexity of the case, the amount of evidence involved, the anticipated court appearances, and whether the matter proceeds to trial.
At Goodman Berman, Barristers, we encourage clients to understand the financial aspects of representation before making a decision. When discussing your case with our firm, you can ask about:
- Legal fees: How the cost of representation is determined based on your specific circumstances.
- Services included: What the proposed retainer covers and which stages of the proceedings are included.
- Additional costs: Whether disbursements or other expenses may arise during your case.
- Payment arrangements: Which payment options may be available.
- Limited-scope representation: Whether assistance with specific aspects of your case may be appropriate.
- Legal Aid Ontario: Whether you may qualify for publicly funded legal assistance.
Make an Informed Decision About Your Defence
The cost of legal representation is an important consideration, but so is understanding the services you will receive. Taking time to discuss fees, clarify the scope of representation, and ask questions can help you determine whether a proposed arrangement meets your needs.
Contact Goodman Berman, Barristers, to discuss your criminal charge in Oshawa and learn more about the legal fees and payment arrangements that may be available for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Charges in Oshawa
Where will my criminal case be heard in Oshawa?
Criminal matters in Oshawa are generally handled at the Durham Region Courthouse, located at 150 Bond Street East, Oshawa, Ontario. The Ontario Court of Justice and the Ontario Superior Court of Justice hear criminal matters, depending on the charge and the stage of the proceedings.
Your court documents should identify your required court location and appearance details. If you are unsure where to attend, confirm the information with your lawyer or the courthouse.
How do I choose the right criminal defence lawyer in Oshawa?
Look for an Ontario lawyer with experience handling the type of criminal charge you face. Consider their approach to reviewing evidence, preparing a defence, explaining legal options, and communicating with clients.
You should also understand the proposed legal fees, what services are included, and who will handle your case. Choose a lawyer who takes your concerns seriously and gives you a realistic assessment rather than promising a particular outcome.
At Goodman Berman, Barristers, contact our team to discuss your situation and determine whether we can assist.
What should I do if I have been arrested or charged in Oshawa?
If you have been arrested or detained, ask to speak with a lawyer and exercise your right to legal counsel. Avoid discussing the allegations with police before obtaining legal advice.
Keep your charge documents, release paperwork, and court information. If you have been released with bail conditions or other restrictions, make sure you understand and follow them.
Contact a criminal defence lawyer promptly, particularly if you have an upcoming court appearance or need advice about release from custody.
Do I need a criminal defence lawyer for my first court appearance in Oshawa?
Obtaining legal advice before your first appearance can help you understand the process and avoid unnecessary uncertainty. A first appearance is generally a procedural step, not the trial itself. Depending on your case, it may involve addressing disclosure, confirming legal representation, or arranging the next court date.
A lawyer can explain what is expected of you and whether they can appear on your behalf in the circumstances. Do not assume you can miss a scheduled appearance without confirmation.
How much does a criminal defence lawyer cost in Oshawa?
The cost of hiring a criminal defence lawyer depends on the nature of the charge, the complexity of the case, the amount of evidence, the anticipated court appearances, and whether a trial is required.
Before retaining a lawyer, ask about the fee structure, the services covered by the retainer, potential additional expenses, and available payment arrangements.
At Goodman Berman, Barristers, we encourage prospective clients to discuss their circumstances and clarify the scope and cost of representation before making a decision.
Can a criminal defence lawyer in Oshawa help me with a bail hearing?
A criminal defence lawyer may be able to represent you at a bail hearing, advise you about release conditions, and help you understand the factors relevant to your release.
If you or a family member has been arrested and remains in custody, communicate the urgency when contacting a lawyer. Bail decisions depend on the circumstances of the case, the applicable law, and the release plan where relevant.
If you have already been released, a lawyer can also advise you about your existing conditions and the proper process for seeking changes where appropriate.
Can I fight a criminal charge if the evidence against me seems strong?
The strength of a case cannot be reliably assessed without examining the allegations, disclosure, and applicable law. Depending on the circumstances, relevant issues may include witness credibility, the reliability of identification, the legality of a search, the admissibility of evidence, or whether the Crown can prove every element of the alleged offence.
A criminal defence lawyer can review the available information and explain the potential strengths, weaknesses, and options in your case. No particular outcome can be guaranteed.
What happens if I miss my criminal court date in Oshawa?
Missing a required court appearance can lead to serious consequences, potentially including a warrant for your arrest or other complications in your case.
If you have missed your court date, seek legal advice immediately. If you are unsure about the date or location of an upcoming appearance, check your court documents and contact your lawyer or the courthouse to confirm the details.
Can I hire an Oshawa criminal defence lawyer if I live in Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, or Bowmanville?
Yes. You do not necessarily need to live in Oshawa to retain a lawyer to represent you in a criminal matter there. The important considerations include the location of your case, the lawyer’s authorization to practise, and whether the lawyer accepts your matter.
Goodman Berman, Barristers, can discuss whether we are able to assist with your criminal matter in Oshawa or elsewhere in Durham Region.
How quickly can I speak with a criminal defence lawyer in Oshawa?
Availability depends on the lawyer and the urgency of the matter. When contacting a law firm, explain whether you have been arrested, remain in custody, have an upcoming court date, or need advice about release conditions.
Contact Goodman Berman, Barristers, at 416.654.7070 or submit a consultation request to ask about availability and the next steps for discussing your case.
Looking for a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Oshawa?
Facing a criminal charge can raise difficult questions about your rights, your freedom, and your future. Getting legal advice can help you understand the process and make informed decisions about the options available to you.
Goodman Berman, Barristers provides criminal defence representation, subject to the firm’s practice areas and availability.
Contact our office to discuss your circumstances, ask questions about the legal process, and find out whether we can assist with your defence.
Call 416.654.7070 or request a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and find out whether we can assist.
This page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Every criminal case is different, and the appropriate approach depends on the specific facts and applicable law.
Oshawa Courthouse location and information
Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel S. Sharpe, DSO, MP Courthouse
150 Bond Street East, Oshawa, Ontario L1G 0A2
Standing Agent for the Public Prosecution Service of Canada:
Courtroom number 108:
Joining by phone:
1-855-703-8985
Meeting ID: 696 9831 4908
Passcode: 813499