Assault Lawyer

In New Brunswick, assault charges under the Criminal Code of Canada include:

• Common Assault (Section 266): Applying force to another person without consent.

• Assault with a Weapon or Causing Bodily Harm (Section 267): Committing an assault while carrying, using, or threatening to use a weapon, or causing bodily harm to the complainant.

• Aggravated Assault (Section 268): Wounding, maiming, disfiguring, or endangering the life of the complainant.

Penalties vary based on the severity of the offense:

• Common Assault: Up to 5 years imprisonment if prosecuted as an indictable offense.

• Assault with a Weapon or Causing Bodily Harm: Up to 10 years imprisonment if prosecuted as an indictable offense.

• Aggravated Assault: Up to 14 years imprisonment.

Yes, assault charges can arise without physical injury. Actions such as threatening someone, attempting to apply force, or making someone fear immediate harm can constitute assault under Canadian law.

Assault with a weapon occurs when an individual carries, uses, or threatens to use a weapon during the commission of an assault. A weapon is defined broadly and can include any object used to cause injury or intimidate, not just traditional weapons like knives or guns. Even a threat to use a weapon, without actual physical contact, can result in this charge. This offense is outlined in Section 267 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

Assault causing bodily harm occurs when an assault results in injuries that are more than minor or temporary. The injury does not need to be permanent but must interfere with the victim’s health or well-being. This offense, outlined in Section 267 of the Criminal Code, carries heavier penalties than simple assault. If you are charged, a New Brunswick assault lawyer can help determine possible defenses.

Yes, some first-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs, such as alternative measures or peace bonds. These programs can include counseling, community service, or anger management courses, and successfully completing them can lead to charges being withdrawn. Eligibility depends on the severity of the charge and whether the Crown prosecutor agrees to diversion. A New Brunswick assault lawyer can help explore these options.

Domestic assault refers to assaults occurring between partners, spouses, or family members. While there is no separate offense for domestic assault in the Criminal Code of Canada, courts in New Brunswick take these cases very seriously, often imposing stricter conditions such as no-contact orders and mandatory counseling. If you are facing charges, a criminal defense lawyer with experience in assault cases can help protect your rights.

Yes, self-defense is a recognized legal defense if you reasonably believed you were under threat and used only necessary force to protect yourself. However, the force used must be proportionate to the threat faced.

Yes, but defending another person can be a valid legal defense if the force used was reasonable and necessary to protect them from harm.

Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. At the same time, the police, in many cases, can continue to speak with you while you remain silent. Contact us for legal representation.

Yes. A criminal conviction can affect employment opportunities and may restrict international travel, including entry into the United States.

Legally, you can represent yourself, but it is highly discouraged. The criminal justice system is complex, and prosecutors will have experience on their side. A lawyer can help protect your rights and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

Missing a court date can result in a bench warrant for your arrest. If you accidentally miss a court appearance, contact a lawyer immediately to take the right legal steps and minimize potential consequences.

If you learn that a warrant has been issued for your arrest, do not ignore it. Contact a criminal lawyer in New Brunswick immediately. In many cases, we can arrange for you to turn yourself in under controlled conditions, avoiding unnecessary time in custody. We can also review the warrant for legal errors and start building your defense right away.

Yes. After an arrest, you may have a bail hearing, where the court decides whether you can be released while awaiting trial. A criminal defence lawyer can argue for your release under reasonable conditions, helping you avoid unnecessary time in custody.

Yes, we offer an initial case assessment to determine the best defense strategy for you.