Under investigation? What should you do?
The police contacted you?
You are being requested to meet with the police?
- You must contact us at all times at (514) 658-6111 to get advice regarding any call you receive from the police.
- You have the right to remain silent. You are under no obligation to make any written or verbal statement to the police. We recommend you exercise your right to remain silent from the beginning of the process.
- Consult with us before meeting with the police.
- Keep our contact information handy. This way, you can refer the police to our office if and when they contact you.
In this type of situation, it is essential to act with acuteness. Decisions made at the time of indictment can have serious repercussions on the outcome of a case and on the probabilities of getting a conviction.
Getting ready
Here is how to effectively prepare for the first meeting with a lawyer. It is a first step in taking charge of your defence.
1Write down every detail that seems important soon after your arrest:
- Day of the week, date, time of events;
- Where they took place;
- Witness names and contact information, if any;
- The context leading up to the charge.
2Gather all documents the police handed out upon your arrest. Read the terms carefully and make sure to follow them. It is important to remember that if you do not appear in court on the day you are supposed to, and if no lawyer is there to represent your behalf, the Court will issue a warrant for your arrest.
3Contact us promptly to schedule a free initial consultation at our Montréal or Longueuil’s office. We will explain the upcoming judicial process, prepare your defence, and answer your questions.
Rights guaranteed by the Charter of Rights
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms offers some protections mainly because, when criminal charges are laid, an unbalance of power is created between the accused and the State.
Everything you tell the police will be concealed in a report and eventually filed as evidence against you.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms offers some protections mainly because, when criminal charges are laid, an unbalance of power is created between the accused and the State. You have the right to remain silent and it is highly recommended to exercise that right. Your fundamental rights are at stake. This simple recommendation can make all the difference in the outcome of the case against you.
Right to counsel
At time of arrest or detention, the police must provide you with access to a lawyer without delay.
They must also inform you without delay, of your right to retain counsel.
Presumption of innocence
The presumption of innocence is the foundation of our criminal justice system. It means a person accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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