Criminal LawLawyer referralImpaired and dangerous driving

Impaired driving causing death

Defence of a charge where an impaired driver is alleged to have caused a death, including collision reconstruction.

Your next court date sets the first deadline; criminal cases move at the court's pace, and the lawyer confirms the steps in writing. Ontario Done by an Ontario lawyer, by referral

What is included

  • Reviews the police notes, breath or blood test records and any video
  • Assesses Charter issues with the stop, the demand and your right to counsel
  • Retains a toxicologist or other professional witness where the case calls for one
  • Represents you at trial or negotiates a resolution with the Crown
  • Explains the licence suspensions and other consequences that may follow

What is not included

  • Reports from toxicologists or other professionals, transcripts and other disbursements, unless the lawyer's retainer includes them
  • An appeal or a later stage the lawyer has not agreed to in writing
  • Related immigration, family or civil matters, unless the lawyer agrees to handle them
  • Work by NEO Legal Services: NEO is a paralegal firm and only makes the referral

Who this service is for

  • Drivers charged with impaired driving, over 80 or refusal
  • Drivers charged with dangerous driving or failing to stop
  • Drivers charged after a collision causing injury or death

Information to have ready

  1. 1Your charge papers, release documents and any licence suspension notices
  2. 2Details of the stop, including the time, place and what was said
  3. 3Names of any passengers or witnesses
  4. 4Your driving record and how a licence suspension would affect you

How a referral works

  1. 1Tell us in a few words what the matter is about, and who else is involved, so we can check for a conflict of interest.
  2. 2We recommend an Ontario lawyer for your matter, and at least one other you could choose instead.
  3. 3The lawyer runs their own conflict check, confirms the scope and quotes the fee, normally in a written retainer agreement.
  4. 4You pay the lawyer's fee to the lawyer. Any referral fee comes out of it, is disclosed to you in writing, and never increases what you pay.

NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm, not a law firm. Every step of a referral, and your rights

Frequently asked questions

What does the lawyer charge?

Lawyers usually charge $450–$900/hr for this kind of work, by the hour. The lawyer quotes the actual rate and an estimate. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.

Should I speak to the police before I talk to a lawyer?

If you are arrested or detained you have the right to speak to a lawyer without delay, and you are usually not required to give a statement. Speak to a lawyer before saying anything about the allegations.

What happens if I miss a court date?

Missing a court date can lead to a warrant for your arrest and a further charge. If you cannot attend, contact a lawyer or the court before the date.

Can a criminal charge affect my immigration status?

It can. Some convictions and sentences may lead to loss of status or removal from Canada, so tell the lawyer about your status before any plea.

Can I get legal aid?

If your income is low and you face a possible jail sentence, Legal Aid Ontario may be able to help. You can ask any lawyer NEO names whether they accept legal aid certificates.

General information only, not legal advice. NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.

Important limitations

  • No outcome can be guaranteed; the Crown and the court make the key decisions
  • You must attend court when required and follow every release condition while the case is ongoing
  • Court dates and appeal deadlines keep running while you choose a lawyer
Law Society of Ontario — Barreau de l'Ontario
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