Criminal Law

A criminal charge is one of the most serious situations a person can face. The consequences — a criminal record, loss of employment, damage to reputation, travel restrictions, and in serious cases, imprisonment — can be life-altering. Shreyas provides vigorous, principled criminal defence to individuals charged with offences under the Criminal Code of Canada and other federal and provincial statutes.

What to Do If You Are Charged

If you have been arrested, charged, or are under investigation, the most important step you can take is to immediately exercise your right to silence and contact a lawyer before speaking to police. Do not provide a statement. Do not consent to a search without legal advice. The earlier we are involved, the more options we have to protect your rights and your future.

Criminal Offences We Defend

• Assault, aggravated assault, and domestic assault
• Sexual assault and related offences
• Impaired driving (DUI), refusing a breath demand, and dangerous operation
• Drug possession and trafficking (Cannabis, controlled substances)
• Theft, fraud, forgery, and property offences
• Weapons offences and possession of prohibited firearms
• Robbery and extortion
• Break and enter
• Mischief and criminal harassment
• Breach of probation, recognizance, and court orders
• Youth criminal justice matters (YCJA)

Bail Hearings & Releases

If you or a loved one has been arrested and detained, obtaining release on bail is the immediate priority. We appear at bail hearings on short notice and work to secure the most favourable release conditions possible.

Provincial Offences

We also represent clients charged with provincial offences under the Highway Traffic Act, the Liquor Licence Act, the Trespass to Property Act, and other provincial regulatory statutes. These matters are heard before the Ontario Court of Justice and can carry significant fines, licence suspensions, and other consequences.

Our Approach to Defence

Every criminal defence begins with a thorough review of the Crown's disclosure. We examine the evidence critically, identify constitutional issues under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and explore every viable defence avenue. Whether that means negotiating a resolution with Crown counsel, bringing a Charter application to exclude evidence, or taking the matter to a full trial, our strategy is always guided by what is in your best interest.