Calgary Assault Lawyer
Don’t face assault charges alone. Contact Akram Law in Calgary today to schedule your free consultation and get the legal support you need.
What is an Assault in Calgary, AB
Assault is broadly defined under the Criminal Code of Canada as the intentional application of force, directly or indirectly, to another person without their consent. Assault encompasses a wide range of actions, from seemingly minor interactions, such as unwanted touching, to severe cases involving intentional harm or threats of violence. In Calgary, Alberta, the intent behind the act and the context of the incident play a crucial role in legal proceedings. Local courts assess factors such as the nature of the contact, the circumstances surrounding the event, and whether the accused demonstrated intent or recklessness.
Why You Need an Experienced Calgary Assault Lawyer
A conviction for assault can lead to a criminal record, restrictions on travel, and long-term impacts on your personal and professional life. Defense strategies for assault charges:
Self-Defense: Using reasonable force to protect yourself.
Consent: If both parties agreed to the altercation.
False Allegations: Challenging the credibility of the complainant.
Assault lawyer – Khalid Akram’s Defence Strategies for Assault:
Khalid Akram an experienced Calgary assault lawyer, provides comprehensive and strategic legal defence tailored to your unique case. Since being called to the bar in 2015, Khalid Akram has focused on protecting clients’ rights and working toward the most favourable outcomes possible. Our lawyers use a variety of defence strategies including challenging the Crown’s evidence, arguing for reduced charges or sentences and negotiating plea bargains. Our Calgary assault lawyer will work hard to get you the best result in your case.
If evidence supports the prosecution, Khalid Akram works to negotiate reduced charges, plea bargains, or alternatives like the Alternative Measures Program (AMP), which helps first-time offenders avoid a criminal record. For cases involving self-defence or other justifiable circumstances, he presents strong evidence to support acquittal. If the case proceeds to trial, he uses his experience to build a robust defence, challenging evidence and cross-examining witnesses to prove your innocence.
What to Expect in Your Case with our Calgary Assault Lawyer
Initial Consultation
When you engage with our assault lawyer in Calgary, the first step is a free, confidential consultation. During this initial meeting, Khalid Akram will discuss the details of your case, answer your questions, and provide a clear understanding of the legal process. This consultation is crucial for assessing your situation and outlining the next steps in your defense strategy.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Following the initial consultation, a thorough investigation and evidence gathering process will commence. Khalid Akram and his team will meticulously review all evidence related to your case, including witness statements, police reports, and any other relevant documentation. This comprehensive review is essential for building a strong defense and ensuring that every aspect of your case is considered.
Court Representation
As your Calgary assault lawyer, Khalid Akram will provide dedicated representation throughout the entire legal process. From preliminary hearings to the trial, you can count on Khalid Akram to advocate on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair trial. His commitment to exceptional advocacy and strategic negotiation will guide you through each stage of the legal proceedings, aiming for the best possible outcome in your case.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Get an experienced Calgary assault lawyer like us to defend you. We know the system and will help you through it and protect your rights.
Understanding Calgary Assault Charges
Definition of Assault
In criminal law, assault refers to any intentional and non-consensual physical touching of another person, which can be direct or indirect. Assault does not require actual physical injury but involves the intent to cause harm.
Criminal Code of Canada: Assault
Assault is defined in section 265(1) of the Criminal Code and and the consequences are set out in section 266. Assault can result in serious criminal penalties including jail time, fines and a criminal record.
Intent in Assault Cases
In assault cases intent is a key element. The Crown must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused intended to commit the offence. If the accused did not intend to commit the offence they cannot be found guilty of assault.
Types of Assault
Simple Assault: Simple assault is the least severe form of assault, involving minimal physical force or contact. It typically includes actions intended to cause fear or discomfort without significant injury or the use of a weapon. Simple assault may also include verbal threats. In many cases, the accused may avoid a trial and face a fine or minimal jail time, depending on the circumstances.
Assault with a Weapon: This type of assault involves the use of a weapon, either to threaten or inflict harm. It is treated with greater seriousness due to the increased potential for harm and intimidation. Depending on the severity of the case, penalties can range from minor charges to a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
Assault Causing Bodily Harm: When an assault results in significant injuries that go beyond minor bruises or cuts, it is classified as assault causing bodily harm. These injuries must affect the victim’s physical well-being and often lead to harsher legal consequences.
Aggravated Assault: Aggravated assault is the most severe form of assault, involving serious injuries, long-term harm, or disfigurement. This offence often involves the use of a weapon and intentional actions to cause significant harm. Sentences for aggravated assault can reach up to 14 years in prison.
Sexual Assault: Sexual assault occurs when non-consensual sexual activity is combined with threats or acts of violence. The legal consequences are severe, with sentences ranging from 18 months to 10 years in prison, depending on the case’s specifics.
Assaulting a Police Officer: Assaulting or threatening a police officer is treated with significant gravity. The Crown often prioritizes seeking jail time to deter such offences. Penalties include up to 5 years in prison, 3 years of probation, and a record in the National DNA Database, resulting in a permanent criminal record.
Our Calgary Assault Lawyers Can Help
If you have any additional questions or need more information about your assault case, contact Khalid Akram, your trusted Calgary criminal lawyer, to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
Contact Us Today
If you are facing assault charges in Calgary, trust Khalid Akram to offer experienced legal counsel and robust defense throughout every phase of your case.
Akram Law Office in Calgary
Address:
918A 5 Ave SW Suite 1, Calgary, AB T2P 0N7
Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 9 AM-5 PM
Friday: 9 AM-12 PM Saturday: 10 AM-1 PM
Email:
info@akramlaw.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Assault Charges
Common Assault typically involves minimal force or threats, and may include actions like pushing or shoving. It’s considered the least severe type of assault.
Aggravated Assault, on the other hand, involves serious injury or the potential to disfigure someone. It is a more severe charge and can result in more significant legal consequences.
If you are charged with assault, it is crucial to seek legal representation immediately. Contact an assault lawyer in Calgary like Khalid Akram to discuss your case and explore your options. Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your lawyer, as anything you say could potentially be used against you.
Khalid Akram provides comprehensive legal support, including a free initial consultation to discuss your case, thorough investigation and evidence gathering, and dedicated representation throughout the legal process. His experience and strategic approach aim to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Penalties for assault in Calgary can vary depending on the severity of the charge. Common Assault might result in fines or probation, while more serious charges like Assault Causing Bodily Harm or Aggravated Assault can lead to imprisonment. Your assault lawyer in Calgary will help you understand the potential penalties and work to mitigate them.
The duration of an assault case can vary based on the complexity of the charges, the evidence involved, and the court’s schedule. Khalid Akram will provide you with an estimated timeline and keep you informed throughout the legal process to ensure you understand each step and what to expect.
In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal. Khalid Akram will evaluate the specifics of your case and discuss whether a plea deal is a viable option. He will work to ensure that any plea deal is in your best interest and helps to achieve the most favorable resolution possible.
If you believe there has been a legal error in your trial, you may have grounds for an appeal. Khalid Akram can assist with the appeals process, including reviewing trial records, identifying potential errors, and representing you in appellate court.