Dangerous Driving charges in Mississauga, Ontario.
Operating a motor vehicle in a manner dangerous to the public — a Criminal Code offence distinct from the HTA's careless driving. Hybrid; on summary election within paralegal scope.
Courthouse
Ontario Court of Justice — Brampton
Court Phone
(905) 456-4700
Consultation
Free & Confidential
i.
What the charge means
Section 320.13 of the Criminal Code prohibits operating a conveyance in a manner that, having regard to all the circumstances, is dangerous to the public. The standard is a marked departure from the conduct of a reasonable person.
ii.
Penalties
Hybrid offence. On summary election: up to 2 years less a day, mandatory minimum fine on first offence, possible driving prohibition. On indictment: up to 10 years (14 if causing bodily harm; life if causing death). A finding of guilt creates a criminal record.
iii.
Available defences
Conduct did not constitute a marked departure from the norm
Mechanical failure or sudden unexpected emergency
Identification of the driver
Charter — unlawful stop, search, or detention
iv.
The process
If Crown elects summary, the matter is within paralegal scope. If Crown elects indictment, we refer to a barrister from our network. Disclosure review and Crown pre-trial often clarify the election early.
v.
Notes for Mississauga
Peel Region's largest city and one of our home jurisdictions. Charges out of Peel Regional Police, OPP Port Credit, and the QEW are routinely heard at the Mississauga courts. Adjacent to Toronto and Hamilton — we appear at all three weekly.
Ontario Court of Justice — Brampton
7755 Hurontario Street, Brampton, ON L6W 4T1 (905) 456-4700
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