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Summary Conviction Offences

Summary conviction proceedings in Ontario involve less serious criminal offences prosecuted under the Criminal Code of Canada in provincial court.

 

These are "summary" (less grave) matters that carry lower maximum penalties than indictable (more serious) offences and are designed to be handled more quickly and simply.

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For individuals charged with minor criminal matters — such as theft under $5,000, mischief, causing a disturbance, or trespassing — the consequences can include a criminal record, fines, probation, or short jail time, which may affect employment, travel, housing, or insurance.

 

Within the limits set by the Law Society of Ontario's By-Law 4, a licensed paralegal can give legal advice, prepare your defence, discuss resolution with the Crown and represent you in the Ontario Court of Justice on eligible summary conviction offences.

Is Your Matter a Summary Criminal Offence? 

This area applies if:

  • You've been charged with a summary conviction offence under the Criminal Code (or certain hybrid offences prosecuted summarily).

  • The charge is less serious (no violence causing serious harm, no firearms/drugs in major quantities, no sexual offences).

  • You want to understand your options and the possible consequences of the charge.

  • The matter is in provincial court (not Superior Court for indictable trials).

 

It does not cover indictable offences, hybrid offences elected as indictable, or serious crimes like assault causing bodily harm, impaired driving with injury, or drug trafficking — for those matters, I will recommend that you speak with a criminal defence lawyer.

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If your charge sheet or summons indicates a summary matter, a consultation will confirm eligibility and outline realistic options.

Examples of Summary Conviction Charges I Can Help With

  • Theft under $5,000

  • Mischief (e.g., property damage under $5,000)

  • Causing a disturbance (public nuisance, fighting words)

  • Trespass at night

  • Public intoxication or causing a disturbance in public

  • Minor assault (without injury or weapons, often hybrid but prosecuted summarily)

  • Fraud under $5,000

  • Uttering threats (less serious cases)

 

Whether a specific charge is within my scope depends on how it is prosecuted. I will confirm this at the consultation.

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Typical Summary Conviction Process

The process for summary matters is streamlined:

  1. First appearance — Enter plea (not guilty to fight; guilty to resolve early); set dates.

  2. Disclosure — Crown provides police notes, statements, video — review for weaknesses.

  3. Resolution / pre-trial — Negotiate with prosecutor (e.g., diversion, peace bond, reduced charge).

  4. Trial — Present defence, cross-examine witnesses; judge decides guilt and sentence.

  5. Sentencing (if guilty) — Fine, probation, conditional discharge, or jail (rare for minor matters).

 

I manage the full process: requesting and reviewing disclosure, advising on your options, discussing resolution with the Crown, preparing for trial and representing you at each appearance.

Why Use a Licensed Paralegal? 

  • Authorized scope — Licensed paralegals may appear on eligible summary conviction matters in the Ontario Court of Justice.

  • Affordable representation — Transparent fees, quoted upfront.

  • Resolution discussions — I can explore options such as diversion or resolution with the Crown where appropriate. No result can be promised.

  • Understand the stakes — I explain how a finding of guilt could affect employment, travel or background checks.

  • Regulated & accountable — Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario, with professional liability insurance.

Ready to Address Your Charge?

If you've been charged with a summary conviction offence, contact me to book a consultation. I'l discuss your charge with you, whether it is within my scope, the general process and next steps.

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