Facing criminal harassment charges is a grave matter with potentially dire consequences. It’s crucial to enlist the expertise of a seasoned lawyer who will vigorously defend your rights and tirelessly pursue the optimal outcome for your case.
At FMK Law Group in Mississauga, our Criminal Harassment lawyers are dedicated to safeguarding your reputation against unfounded accusations. As a trusted law firm renowned for its prowess in criminal law, you can rely on us to stand by your side and fight for justice.
We offer complimentary consultations with our team of skilled Criminal lawyers in Mississauga, ON, to explore how we can assist you. Our areas of expertise encompass various legal matters, including Child Luring and Sexual Exploitation.
While our Criminal Harassment services are centred in Mississauga, ON, we extend our representation to clients across the Greater Toronto Region, encompassing areas such as Oakville, Brampton, Milton, and Burlington. Our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Don’t face these charges alone. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and our Mississauga Criminal Lawyer to safeguard your future.
What is Criminal Harassment in Mississauga, Canada?
The Criminal Code of Canada states that:
264. (1) No person shall, without lawful authority and knowing that another person is harassed or recklessly as to whether the other person is harassed, engage in conduct referred to in subsection
(2) that causes that other person reasonably, in all the circumstances, to fear for their safety or the safety of anyone known to them.
What Harassment May Look Like
First, as hard as it may be to say, the more minor forms of harassment may not be constituted as a crime at all. However, when it crosses certain lines, such as the demonstration of a clear intent to cause harm, inciting fear, or consistently and unfairly targeting someone, legal action could likely be taken.
Though workplace harassment is extremely common, people in your personal life could be the offenders, too. For example, it’s prevalent for disgruntled ex-spouses to create the problem.
Additionally, harassment can take on many forms. There is stalking, sexual harassment, threatening, etc. Harassment may go beyond the point of talk, seeing harm or damage being done to the victim’s person or property.
Depending on the extent of such an action, the charges laid against the defendant could be coupled with others, such as malicious destruction of property.
Punishment For Criminal Harassment in Mississauga, Canada?
The Criminal Code of Canada, Section 264 (3) states that,
“Every person who contravenes this section is guilty of
(a) an indictable offence and is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years or
(b) an offence punishable by summary conviction. “
Being convicted of criminal harassment carries serious penalties. If the Crown proceeds through indictment, you could potentially face a prison sentence of up to 10 years. Alternatively, if the Crown chooses summary conviction, you may be sentenced to 18 months in jail and fined up to $5,000.
Fighting False Criminal Harassment Charges in Mississauga, Canada
If you’re confronting criminal harassment charges in Mississauga, Canada, it’s crucial to understand your defence options at trial.
Here are some potential strategies:
Denying all allegations:
You have the right to refute any accusations made against you and challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Establishing lack of fear:
You can aim to demonstrate that the complainant did not feel genuinely threatened or intimidated by your actions, undermining the basis for the harassment charges.
It’s essential to recognize the gravity of criminal harassment charges and their potential repercussions. Therefore, seeking legal counsel is paramount to fully comprehend your rights and options before proceeding with any decisions. Consulting with a lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the legal process.
The Challenge with Harassment
The general theme you’ve likely gotten up until now is that while identifiable, harassment is not always seen as a criminal offence. This is where the true challenge with prosecuting the crime lies. The spectrum of what constitutes mild to severe harassment is quite broad.
Something that may cause you mental anguish and you may conceptualize it as harassment may not necessarily be labelled that way in your jurisdiction.
Additionally, much of what falls under the harassment umbrella has been normalized in several contexts, such as workplaces. Therefore, you may be suffering without the realization that you probably have a harassment case on your hands.
The Right Action
Civil or criminal courts may handle harassment hearings, depending on the circumstances involved. Note, however, that it’s very common for these cases to be tackled in the civil court first and potentially move to the criminal court afterwards.
Most commonly, a civil order is handed down, and a violation becomes a criminal matter.
It’s always a good idea to retain the services of an expert attorney to navigate this slippery slope even if not a criminal charge, your lawyer can potentially help you to file for some kind of a protective measure, such as a restraining order.
When it gets to the criminal stage, you can have adequate support to ensure that the defendant faces the full extent of the law.
Conversely, you may be defending yourself against a harassment claim. If that describes you or a loved one, you could be drowning in hot water without adequate representation.
Regardless of which side of the coin you fall on, you are highly encouraged to seek out the services of the professional team at FMK Law Group as soon as possible.
Facing Criminal Harassment Charges in Mississauga, Ontario? Consider FMK Law Group
If you’re dealing with criminal harassment charges in Mississauga or nearby areas, having a skilled and dedicated lawyer by your side is essential.
Our team of Criminal Harassment lawyers at FMK Law Group in Mississauga is here to provide unwavering support and defence against unfounded accusations. With our extensive experience in criminal law, you can rely on us to vigorously advocate for your rights and interests.
Don’t hesitate to contact us at (647) 269-8414 for a consultation that could significantly impact the outcome of your case. Trust in our commitment to excellence and our relentless dedication to defending your rights every step of the way. Let us help you navigate through this challenging time with confidence and peace of mind.