Defending clients with multiple charge levels requires various strategies because criminal law is complex and continuously changing. The criminal lawyers located in Regina, Saskatchewan, protect the interests of the accused within the framework of Canadian laws. From DUI and assault to drug possession and theft, each client faces a unique set of risks.Â
A well-informed criminal lawyer in Regina is important to secure a fair trial and a successful verdict. In this article, we explain the steps taken by criminal lawyers in Regina to defend common charges, their legal approaches, and what clients should anticipate during the legal proceedings.
Role of a Criminal Lawyer in Regina
Criminal lawyers in Regina advocate for persons charged with crimes under the Canadian Criminal Code. Some of the responsibilities performed by criminal lawyers in Regina include gathering case documents, evaluating evidence, assessing a case’s strengths and weaknesses, providing legal counsel on various options, pre-trial negotiations, and advocacy in trial proceedings.Â
Not only do they show up in court, but they also handle negotiations, research, and draft plans. Defending the client’s interests is their highest goal, so they attempt to get the case dropped or successfully negotiate; if not, they will use litigation. Â
Defending Against DUI Charges
Driving While Impaired, also called a DUI, is issued to drivers more often than many other violations in Regina. Usually, Regina’s defense lawyers look first at whether the officers conducted the traffic stop and tested the client using the correct procedures. The case may be dismissed if certain rights as defined in the Canadian Charter are not honored, such as an unauthorized search or not telling the accused about their right to a lawyer.
A lawyer can point out that the breathalyzer results were wrong or that having one was unjustified. Criminal lawyers sometimes offer a deal where a charged person can plead guilty to careless driving if it is a first-time offense.
Strategies for Drug Possession and Trafficking Charges
Possession, production and trafficking of drugs is a criminal offense that violates the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Regina criminal defense lawyers usually begin pleading drug possession and drug trafficking offenses by evaluating whether law enforcement had reasonable grounds to search a client’s property.
Lawyers will investigate the custodial chain as well as the lab testing processes of the substances. For trafficking or possession of drugs, the defense strategy is usually based on disproving the possession, knowledge, or control over the drugs, or proving that the substances were intended for personal consumption.
Approaches to Defending Assault and Violent Offences
Like most large Canadian cities, Regina has its share of residents charged with some form of assault, be it simple or aggravated. The defense counsel’s initial strategy for these charges usually centers on self-defense, defense of others, or mistaken identity.Â
Criminal lawyers conduct investigations by interviewing relevant witnesses, looking for available video footage, and evaluating the gathered evidence. The reliability of the victims and eyewitnesses is crucial, and inconsistencies in their testimonies can be used in the argument.Â
Defending Theft, Fraud, and Property Crimes
All forms of theft and fraud, from shoplifting to complex financial crimes, require detailed evidence. In crimes relating to property, the prosecution establishes that the accused had both the intent and the action to commit the crime.
Criminal offences are defended by arguing a lack of intent, confused ownership, or even a misunderstanding. With a clean record, even a theft charge can be negotiated favorably, where a lawyer would argue for diversionary programs instead of a criminal charge.
Protecting Charter Rights During Criminal Proceedings
Criminal Lawyers in Regina use the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Charter protects the rights to silence, counsel for their assistance, and a fair trial.
The consequence of breaching these rights is loss of evidence, stays of proceedings, and charge dismissals. Lawyers will ensure that all actions performed by law enforcement are done within the legal constraints and their client’s legal rights are not violated during investigations and arrest procedures.
The Importance of Early Legal Representation
Obtaining the services of a criminal lawyer earlier in the process impacts the outcome of a case. A defense lawyer can guide a client during police interrogation or suggest what statements to make. During an arrest, a defense lawyer can advise on developing a tactical defense.Â
Defense lawyers also appear for clients at bail hearings, determining whether an accused person stays in custody or is released while awaiting trial.
Final Thoughts
Regina criminal lawyers help guide those mistreated by the area’s law. If you get accused of a crime in Regina, you should immediately find a criminal lawyer. As a result, you may receive a not-guilty ruling and ensure that all Canadian law and rights are protected.