A heated argument escalates, tensions flare, and in a moment of impulse, things get physical. Hours later… the police arrive and before you can fully process what happened— you find yourself charged with not just one but multiple counts of assault.
Is the above situation similar to yours?
If you’re not careful even minor misunderstandings can quickly become major legal battles. In Canada, multiple assault charges demand serious attention as the legal system treats them with strict penalties but the good news is that you’re not alone.
Understanding your legal options and securing the right defence can make all the difference aks an expert assault defence lawyer, we will help you out.
In this post, we’ll break down what it means to face multiple assault charges and how Alberta courts handle them.
Multiple Assault Charges Under Canadian Law
In Canada, assault is any intentional use of force without consent or a threat of force against another person. Assault-related offences are governed by the Criminal Code of Canada primarily Sections 265 to 268.
When an individual faces multiple assault charges, it means they are accused of committing assault more than once either against the same victim or multiple victims.
Multiple assault charges often involve one or more of the following types:
- Simple Assault (Section 265): Applying force or threatening to apply force without lawful consent.
- Assault Causing Bodily Harm (Section 267): Assault that results in non-trivial physical injuries to the victim.
- Aggravated Assault (Section 268): The most serious form of assault involving severe injuries that endanger the victim’s life.
- Domestic Assault: Assault between intimate partners or family members.
- Sexual Assault (Section 271): Assault with a sexual nature which can lead to even more severe penalties.
Multiple charges could involve a combination of these offences creating legal complications and increasing the potential penalties.
What Are The Consequences Of Multiple Assault Charges?
The consequences of multiple assault charges can be severe. Depending on the nature and number of charges, you could face:
Increased Sentencing Risk
Each assault charge can attract its penalty. When facing multiple charges, the court may impose consecutive sentences meaning you serve one sentence after another.
In serious cases like aggravated or sexual assault, prison time could range from several months to years.
Complicated Defence Strategies
Multiple charges complicate your defence requiring an experienced lawyer to address each charge separately. The Crown may attempt to use previous charges or related evidence to build a stronger case against you.
Impact On Your Criminal Record
Convictions for multiple assault charges can lead to a criminal record making it harder to secure employment, housing, or travel. Some convictions also carry mandatory record suspensions only after a long waiting period.
Defending Against Multiple Assault Charges
An effective defence against multiple assault charges requires careful planning and legal expertise. A defence lawyer will evaluate the facts, gather evidence, and challenge the Crown’s case to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Challenging Evidence And Witness Testimony
Witness credibility plays a key role in assault cases. Your lawyer will investigate inconsistencies in the statements and look for gaps in the evidence presented by the Crown.
Establishing Consent
For some types of assault, consent can be a valid defence. If the defence lawyer can prove that the interaction was consensual, the charges could be dismissed.
Proving Self-Defence
Section 34 of the Criminal Code of Canada allows for self-defence if you use force to protect yourself or someone else from harm. This defence applies if your actions were reasonable under the circumstances.
Arguing Mistaken Identity
In cases where the assault occurred in a crowded setting or during a chaotic situation, your lawyer may argue mistaken identity. It can help them prove that someone else committed the assault.
How a Criminal Defence Lawyer Can Help with Multiple Assault Charges
When dealing with multiple assault charges, the stakes are too high to face them alone. Here’s how a criminal defence lawyer can assist:
Navigating The Legal Process
Your lawyer will explain each step of the process. It will ensure you understand the charges against you, the potential outcomes, and the strategy for your defence.
Negotiating With The Crown
A skilled defence lawyer can negotiate with the Crown Prosecutor to reduce the charges or arrange a plea deal that minimizes penalties.
Preparing For Trial
If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will build a compelling defence, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Get Legal Representation With Slaferek Law
If you are facing multiple assault charges in Edmonton having experienced legal representation is essential. Darin Slaferek, a seasoned criminal defence lawyer, understands the complexities of Alberta’s legal system and is dedicated to protecting your rights.
His expertise in sexual assault and domestic assault cases ensures that every client receives the strongest possible defence.
Need legal help? Contact us today to discuss your case and protect your future.
