Criminal LawLawyer referralGuilty pleas, sentencing and diversion
Long-term offender designation
Defence at an application for a long-term supervision order after a sentence is served.
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
Explains the possible sentences and the consequences of a plea, including for immigration and travel
Negotiates diversion or a joint position with the Crown where possible
Gathers letters, reports and other materials that support your position on sentence
Makes submissions on sentence, including discharges, conditional sentences and Gladue factors
Explains any orders that follow, such as probation or prohibitions
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
People considering a guilty plea
People seeking diversion, or a drug treatment or mental health court
People facing a sentencing, dangerous offender or long-term offender hearing
Information to have ready
1Employment, school and community references
2Counselling, treatment or medical records you are willing to share
3Your immigration status and travel needs
4Any prior criminal record
How a referral works
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.
2We recommend an Ontario lawyer for your matter, and at least one other you could choose instead.
3The lawyer runs their own conflict check, confirms the scope and quotes the fee, normally in a written retainer agreement.
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.
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