Busted! Don’t Believe these Myths About Criminal Law!

Often, we are caught up in being influenced by media and television and the role they play when depicting various facets of law. However, it’s not always accurate information. When it comes to obtaining legal services, different mediums of information have been compounded by old wives’ tales and can negatively impact people's judgment about criminal law proceedings.

This lack of clarity has led several people to believe the numerous myths associated with criminal law, and this could have an adverse impact on your case and how your legal future pans out. This is where a professional criminal lawyer steps in and eases your stress of handling the court case and facing trials irrespective of whether you are guilty or not.

To ensure you don’t face a rude awakening if you are compelled to seek counsel, Joseph Fera Law Office has dispelled three of the most common criminal law myths.

Myth 1: Laws differ from one county to the other.

The law is the law! It is the same from county to county and from the courtroom to courtroom. While the practice rules vary from county to county, the same federal and provincial laws govern all counties. The reason that this myth exists could be attributed to the fact that every prosecutor’s office and every individual prosecutor take a different approach which can change how matters proceed. Further, the way that different judges apply the law can also be hugely different from the courtroom to courtroom.

This is one of the many reasons why if you are charged with any crime, a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney, who knows the prosecutors and the judges, is the greatest asset you can have.

Myth 2: A complainant can withdraw the charge if they change their mind.

In Canada, a complainant generally makes an allegation against an accused who is then forced to defend criminal charges. This kind of incident would happen in domestic assault cases frequently. Unlike in many American jurisdictions, the complainant cannot “change their mind" after the charge and withdraw the complainant. In Canada, only the prosecutor can withdraw a case, and that decision will be judged on all of the evidence then, and whether the prosecutor believes there is a reasonable prospect of conviction.

Myth 3: I don’t need a lawyer if the police seem helpful.

The unfortunate truth is that the police have no interest in being helpful to a suspect. Their job consists of collecting information and finding evidence of a crime. Quite possibly, this will include arresting you. Do not see the police as a helpful asset when they are investigating a crime and your involvement. Even if police present themselves as compassionate, it would be a big mistake to interpret that behavior in a way that could benefit you. Whether kind or aggressive, the police are taking in everything you say, and they will use it to build their case against you. Never give any statement to the police and always talk to a criminal lawyer immediately.

If you’re looking for a criminal lawyer who is dedicated and committed across Guelph, Milton, Fergus, Arthur, Mount Forest, Elora, Minto, Waterloo, and the surrounding areas, reach out to the Joseph Fera Law Office. When faced with a criminal case, it is essential to get the right lawyer who is competent, highly knowledgeable and can handle all your legal requirements with absolute dedication and commitment. With over two decades of experience, I can give you expert advice and assistance irrespective of whether you are a falsely accused person, someone who made a mistake or someone who is connected to a crime. For a complete list of services I offer, please click here. If you have any questions about Joseph Fera Law Office, I’d love to hear from you. Please contact me here.