Criminal defence in Hamilton.
Summary conviction matters in Hamilton are heard at John Sopinka Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice). We accept retainers from across the Hamilton-Wentworth and beyond. Choose a charge below for a defence overview and the next step.
John Sopinka Courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
45 Main Street East, Hamilton, ON L8N 2B7
(905) 645-5252
Hamilton, Ancaster, Dundas, Stoney Creek, Flamborough and Glanbrook.
Charges in Hamilton
9 matters- / 01Criminal Code s.265 / s.266
Assault
Any intentional application of force without consent — from a shove to a strike. Defended on consent, self-defence, de minimis, or evidentiary grounds.
Read defence overview - / 02Criminal Code s.334(b)
Theft Under $5,000
Shoplifting, employee theft, and other low-value theft charges. Routinely diverted or resolved without a criminal record for first-time accused.
Read defence overview - / 03Criminal Code s.430
Mischief
Damage to or interference with property — graffiti, vandalism, obstruction. Available defences turn on intent, ownership, and proportionality.
Read defence overview - / 04Criminal Code s.175
Cause Disturbance
Disturbing the peace in or near a public place by fighting, screaming, swearing, or obstructing persons. Summary offence — strong defences available.
Read defence overview - / 05Criminal Code s.320.13
Dangerous Driving
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.
Read defence overview - / 06Criminal Code s.320.18
Prohibited Driving
Driving while subject to a court-ordered driving prohibition. A Criminal Code offence distinct from the HTA's Drive Suspended. Hybrid; on summary election within paralegal scope.
Read defence overview - / 07Criminal Code s.264
Criminal Harassment
Repeated communication, following, or threatening conduct that causes another person to fear for their safety. Hybrid offence; on summary election within paralegal scope.
Read defence overview - / 08Criminal Code s.264.1
Uttering Threats
Knowingly uttering, conveying, or causing any person to receive a threat to cause death, bodily harm, or damage to property. Hybrid offence; on summary election within paralegal scope.
Read defence overview - / 09Criminal Code s.320.16
Fail to Stop After Accident
Failing to stop after a collision involving another person, vehicle, or animal, with knowledge of the accident. The criminal counterpart to the HTA's Fail to Remain — escalates when injury or death is involved.
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First appearance in Hamilton?
Call before the date. Adjournments are routine on first appearance — there is almost always time to build the right defence if you reach out now.