Why retaining counsel is so important

Being criminally charged and facing the prospect of conviction can be an overwhelming experience. It can carry serious consequences, and have a severe impact on your life: from employment and immigration status, to family relationships and personal reputation.

It is important to retain an experienced lawyer who will move quickly to advocate on your behalf, taking the steps necessary to build a sound defence, often well before your first court appearance. This may include:

 
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MEETINGS

Holding meetings with clients, whether in or out of custody (if detained in custody, visiting the jail).

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INTERVIEWS

Conducting witness interviews that corroborate your account or challenge the Crown witnesses’ version of events.

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EVIDENCE COLLECTION

Collecting evidence that may be important for establishing timelines, supporting your account, or challenging the Crown's evidence.

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PRESERVATION OF EvidencE

Requesting the preservation of evidence which may be in the possession of third parties, such as surveillance video.

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Communication

Communicating with the police, Crown, jail, insurance companies, hospital and other health care professionals, counsel in concurrent proceedings and other persons, and various other measures.

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Location visits

Visiting the site of relevant events to take photos and video and making observations.

 

Our lawyers can help.

 
“Arrested, confused, sad, and anxious, I stumbled upon Melanie Webb. She delved right into my case after our first meeting. I was facing kidnapping, torture, extortion, assault with weapons, and a plethora of other charges. She worked diligently through all of my emotional issues, was a listening ear when I needed to vent, and never compromised our attorney-client relationship. Melanie was always professional and I’m glad to say that after a two-month trial and out of five accused, I was the only one acquitted. I was temporarily stripped of my personal goals and material posessions, but I gained my freedom back thanks to Melanie. My family and I are forever grateful.”
— J.G.
The latest from our blog
Webb to speak on 'Digital Evidence' at The Advocates' Society

On March 5th, Melanie will participate in a panel on ‘Digital Evidence for Litigators’ at The Advocates’ Society.

Webb testifies at Senate Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs

On October 4th, Melanie testified before the Senate Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, on Bill C-48, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform).

Webb elected as Toronto Regional Director to OBA Board of Directors

Melanie was elected by acclamation as Toronto Regional Director to the Ontario Bar Association for 2023-2024.

Webb testifies at House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights on bail

On March 27th, Melanie addressed the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights, on behalf of the Canadian Bar Association (CBA). She spoke on the issue of Canada’s bail system.

Webb addresses the Ontario Bar Association on a criminal law panel

On February 28th, Melanie spoke via webcast to the Ontario Bar Association on the topic of “post-bail hearing practical considerations”, specifically, bail variations and bail reviews.

Webb speaks with CBC News on issue of delay in the courts

Melanie spoke with CBC News on the issue of delay in the courts, and the continuing struggle to administer timely court services that pre-existed long before Covid.

Webb quoted in CBA National on SCC decision dealing with sexual consent and use of condoms

Last Friday, the Supreme Court of Canada released its decision in R. v. Kirkpatrick, which ruled that when someone is required by their partner to wear a condom during sex but they do not, they could be guilty of sexual assault.

Webb to chair program on Women in Criminal Law at the Canadian Bar Association

On June 22nd, Melanie will be chairing an important program on Women in Criminal Law at the Canadian Bar Association, bringing together experienced panelists from the bench and both sides of the bar to share their insight and experiences in this challenging profession.

Webb to chair program on s. 11(b) at the Canadian Bar Association

On April 5th, Melanie will chair a webinar on section 11(b) (the Charter right to trial within a reasonable time), at the Canadian Bar Association. The program will include panelists from across Canada, and include a “cross-country check-up” on on how the courts have been treating “Covid-related” delay, among other topics.

Webb returns to OBA Council as Toronto Regional Representative

On March 25th, Melanie returned to OBA Council, this time as Toronto Regional Representative. She previously sat on OBA Council while serving as Chair of the Criminal Justice Section.