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.
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.
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.
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.
Ottawa hears matters from Ottawa Police, OPP, and RCMP traffic across the National Capital Region. We make regular trips and accept retainers Ontario-wide.
Ottawa Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
161 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 2K1
(613) 239-1255
Twenty minutes, confidential, no obligation. We’ll discuss your charge, the realistic outcomes, and the cost of defence before you commit to anything.
