Frequently Asked Questions

Stastny Law primarily serves Toronto and focuses on cases within the city. However, in certain circumstances, cases outside of Toronto may be accepted when deemed appropriate.

The cost of our services will depend on the nature, complexity, and time required for your case. Fees are typically provided as a flat rate for specific services, with an hourly rate applied if representation ends before your case is complete. Each case is individually assessed, and a retainer estimate will be provided to you upfront by our team.

Yes, Stastny Law accepts legal aid. 

A criminal lawyer can negotiate with the Crown attorney to agree to a change in bail conditions on consent. If this negotiation fails, they can seek a court review. These take place either in the Superior Court for bail orders, or the Ontario Court of Justice for Form 10 orders.

Key factors include experience, a proven track record, effective communication, and interpersonal skills. It’s important to feel comfortable with your lawyer and confident in their ability to represent you.

Bring any documents that might be relevant to your case and come prepared with any additional information you believe your lawyer should know. Ensure you have privacy during your meeting, and if possible, share your case disclosure with your lawyer beforehand.

Youth court handles cases involving individuals under 18 who are charged with criminal offences. It operates under a distinct set of principles and rules designed to meet different objectives than the adult criminal court system.

A surety is a person approved by the court to supervise a defendant while they are out on bail. They are responsible for ensuring that the defendant complies with all bail conditions until their trial.

A sentencing hearing is a court date held after a guilty conviction is given to a defendant. During the sentencing hearing, a judge determines the appropriate penalty for the defendant.

Probation is a form of community supervision included as part of a sentence for a criminal offence. It involves following specific court-ordered conditions while living outside of custody in the community.

A preliminary hearing determines whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial for indictable offences. It is not a trial but serves as a screening process for more serious cases.

A factum is a written legal document prepared by lawyers that outlines arguments on a specific legal issue.

An acquittal means the defendant has been found not guilty of the charges against them. 

Your rights must be read to you when you are both arrested and detained by the police. This is also true when you are under investigative detention and are not free to leave.

A plea deal is a negotiated agreement between your lawyer and the Crown attorney. It typically involves pleading guilty to certain charges in exchange for reduced penalties or having some charges dropped.