Assault Lawyers Toronto
If police charged you with assault, get legal advice before you speak to anyone about the allegation. The steps you take now can affect release conditions, your record, and the outcome of your case.
Why clients choose us:
- Toronto law firm with 24/7 availability for arrests and urgent bail issues
- Direct access to a criminal defence lawyer
- Exceptional track record of success defending assault charges
- Clear explanation of fees before you retain us
- 5-star criminal assault lawyers with over 20 years of experience
Pyzer Criminal Lawyers defends clients facing simple assault, assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, and aggravated assault. We move quickly to review what happened, test the Crown’s evidence, and explain your options in plain language.
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Meet Your Legal Team
When you contact Pyzer Criminal Lawyers, you speak with highly experienced assault lawyers who handle assault charges in Toronto and across the GTA. We take the time to understand what happened, review the Crown’s evidence, and give you clear advice on next steps.
Assault allegations range from simple assault to assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, aggravated assault, and domestic assault. The details matter.
We focus on the work that moves your file forward:
- Reviewing disclosure and identifying gaps in the Crown’s case.
- Challenging unreliable evidence and witness accounts.
- Addressing bail and release conditions that affect daily life.
- Negotiating for withdrawals, reduced charges, or alternative resolutions when appropriate.
- Preparing for trial when the case does not resolve.
Get your defence started today.
Understanding Your Charges
Assault is a criminal charge, and the early steps in your case matter. Police conditions, bail terms, and what you say after the incident can shape how the Crown proceeds. A defence lawyer can explain the charge, review the facts, and help you make decisions that protect your record and your future.
What Constitutes Assault Under Canadian Law
Section 265 of the Criminal Code defines assault as applying force to another person on purpose, directly or indirectly, without their consent.
Physical contact is not always required. Police can lay an assault charge if you try to apply force, or if you make a gesture that causes someone to reasonably believe you can carry out the threat. The law also captures threatening conduct tied to openly carrying or handling a weapon.
- Pushing, grabbing, or slapping someone during an argument.
- Pointing an object at someone as a weapon and moving as if you will use it.
- Throwing an object or a drink at someone.
- Raising a fist and stepping toward someone in a way that makes them think you are about to hit them.
- Swinging a bottle, bat, or other object at someone, even if you miss.
Assault cases turn on the details, including what happened, what witnesses saw, and what the Crown can prove. A defence lawyer can review the allegation and explain what the law requires in your situation.
The Three Levels of Assault in Canada
Canadian law groups common assault charges into three main categories. The level depends on what the Crown alleges happened, whether a weapon was involved, and whether the complainant suffered bodily harm.
Simple assault (Section 266)
Simple assault covers the intentional application of force without consent, where the allegation does not involve a weapon and does not involve bodily harm at the level required for the more serious offences. This charge is often prosecuted as a hybrid offence, which means the Crown can choose to proceed in a less serious way or a more serious way depending on the facts.
Assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm (Section 267):
This applies when the Crown alleges you used or threatened to use a weapon during the assault, or the complainant suffered bodily harm. “Bodily harm” means more than minor or temporary pain. It refers to harm that is more than trivial and interferes with health or comfort.
Aggravated assault (Section 268):
This is the most serious assault charge. It applies when the Crown alleges the assault wounded, maimed, disfigured, or endangered the complainant’s life.
How Assault Differs From Related Charges
Police reports and charge labels do not always match how a case is proven in court. These distinctions affect what the Crown must prove and the defence options available.
Assault vs. Uttering Threats
Assault usually involves force, an attempt to use force, or conduct that makes someone think force is imminent. Uttering threats focuses on the words themselves, even when no physical contact occurs.
Assault vs. Criminal Harassment
Assault often centres on a specific incident. Criminal harassment usually involves a pattern, like repeated contact or monitoring, that causes fear for safety.
Assault vs. Mischief
Assault is about harm or alleged harm to a person. Mischief is about property, such as damage or interfering with someone’s ability to use their property.
Assault vs. “Domestic Violence” Charges
“Domestic violence” is not a single Criminal Code charge. It is a label used when allegations involve intimate partners or family members. The underlying charge is often assault, but these cases can lead to strict release conditions, including no-contact terms and limits on returning home.
If police laid multiple charges, or the charge description does not match what happened, we can review the disclosure and help you understand what the Crown must prove for each allegation.
Consequences of an Assault Conviction
An assault conviction can affect far more than a sentence. It can create a criminal record that follows you for years and shows up in background checks. It can limit travel, including entry to the United States. It can affect immigration status, professional licensing, and job opportunities. In domestic-related cases, it can also lead to strict court orders that affect where you can live and who you can contact.
A defence lawyer can explain what is at stake in your specific situation and work toward outcomes that reduce long-term harm wherever the facts and the law support it.
Criminal Penalties by Assault Type
The Criminal Code sets maximum penalties for assault offences. In many cases, the Crown can choose to proceed by summary conviction (less serious procedure) or by indictment (more serious procedure). Summary matters generally carry a maximum of two years less a day unless the law sets a different maximum.
Maximum penalties can include:
- Simple assault (s. 266): up to two years less a day if the Crown proceeds by summary conviction, or up to five years if the Crown proceeds by indictment.
- Assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm (s. 267): up to 10 years if the Crown proceeds by indictment.
- Aggravated assault (s. 268): up to 14 years.
- Sexual assault (s. 271): up to 18 months on summary conviction, or up to 10 years if the Crown proceeds by indictment. If the complainant is under 16, the maximums increase to two years less a day (summary) or 14 years (indictable).
These are maximums, not predictions. The real exposure depends on the facts, the evidence, and how the Crown proceeds. A defence lawyer can explain what applies to your case and what options exist to limit long-term consequences. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers regularly defend clients in the Ontario Court of Justice, striving to reduce penalties, negotiate alternative resolutions, and protect against unnecessary convictions.
Impact on Your Criminal Record
In most assault cases, a conviction creates a criminal record. That record can show up in background checks and can limit options long after the case ends. In some cases, the court may grant a discharge rather than register a conviction. A discharge still involves a finding of guilt, but it is not a conviction.
Absolute discharge
The court finds you guilty and grants a discharge with no probation. The record is sealed automatically one year after the date you are sentenced for most modern cases.
Conditional discharge
The court finds you guilty and grants a discharge with conditions, usually probation. The record is sealed automatically three years after the date you are sentenced for most modern cases.
Employment impact
A criminal record can affect hiring, promotions, and workplace screening. Many employers run criminal record checks for roles that involve trust, security, driving, handling money, or access to vulnerable people. Even when a discharge is available, it can still appear on checks until it is sealed.
Professional licensing and regulated roles
If you work in a regulated profession, a criminal record can trigger reporting requirements, disciplinary processes, or licensing issues. This often matters for roles in healthcare, education, finance, security, and government work.
If you tell us your job, your status in Canada, and any upcoming screening deadlines, we can explain what outcomes matter most in your case and what steps to take next.
Consequences Beyond Prison Time
An assault case can affect day-to-day life long before and long after any sentence. These consequences often matter most to clients.
Travel to the United States and other countries
A criminal record can lead to border issues, refused entry, or extra screening. The United States, in particular, has broad discretion at the border. Some people only learn this when they try to travel for work or family reasons.
Immigration, permanent residence, and citizenship
A conviction can create immigration problems, including inadmissibility issues or delays and refusals in PR and citizenship applications. If you are not a Canadian citizen, get legal advice early so your defence strategy accounts for immigration risk.
Housing and rentals
Landlords and property managers may run background checks. A criminal record can reduce housing options and delay approvals, especially in competitive rental markets.
Family law and custody issues
Domestic-related allegations can trigger no-contact terms and restrictions on returning home. An assault charge or conviction can also affect parenting arrangements, access, and family court proceedings.
Personal and relationship impact
Assault allegations can strain relationships and reputations, even before a case ends. Strict release conditions can also limit communication and contact, affecting daily life.
If any of these issues apply to you, we can focus your defence plan on outcomes that limit long-term harm where the facts and the law support it.
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Building Your Defence Strategy
Here’s a brief overview of some key defences we have substantial experience with and have successfully handled.
Self-Defence and Defence of Others
In some assault cases, the issue is not whether force occurred. It is whether the law justified it. Section 34 of the Criminal Code covers self-defence and defence of others. You may rely on it if you reasonably believed you faced an immediate threat to yourself or another person and you responded with force that matched the threat.
Section 35 covers defence of property. It may apply when you used reasonable force to prevent someone from taking, damaging, or trespassing on property. Where these defences are in play, we focus on the facts the court will test, such as what happened in the moment, who did what, and what evidence supports your account.
Challenging Consent and Intent
Not every allegation turns on injuries or witness accounts. In many assault cases, the key issues are what you intended to do and whether the other person consented to the contact. For example, if you accidentally pushed someone during a heated argument, you may be able to argue that you did not intend to cause harm.
Intent and accidental contact
The Crown must prove you acted on purpose. If the contact was accidental, or happened without the intent required for assault, that can support a defence. We look closely at what led up to the incident, what you meant to do, and what the evidence actually shows.
Consent to physical contact
Consent can matter in limited situations, such as agreed contact in sports or other settings where physical contact is expected. The key question is whether the other person agreed to that contact at the time.
When consent does not count
The law does not treat consent as valid in some situations, including where someone uses force, threats, fraud, coercion, or exploits a power imbalance. Those facts can remove consent as a defence.
Mistaken belief in consent
In some cases, the issue is what you reasonably believed in the moment. A mistaken belief defence depends on what you did to confirm consent and whether that belief was reasonable in the circumstances. Courts will not accept it when a person ignores clear signs of non-consent.
Procedural and Evidence-Based Defences
Strong assault defences often come from the details in the evidence and the steps police took during the investigation.
Reasonable doubt and the Crown’s burden
You do not have to prove your innocence. The Crown must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. When the evidence is inconsistent, incomplete, or unreliable, that doubt can be enough to defeat the case.
Charter rights issues
Police must follow the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms when they detain you, search you, or take property. If police conduct an unwarranted search and seizure, we can raise a Charter issue and ask the court to address it. The courts take these violations seriously, and evidence obtained unlawfully may be excluded from the case.
Cross-Examination
At trial, we test the Crown’s witnesses through cross-examination. We look for inconsistencies, bias, gaps in memory, and conflicts with records like texts, video, and other documents. We also challenge evidence that is weak or unreliable, including identification and third-party accounts.
Negotiation and Alternative Resolutions
Not every assault case should go to trial. Many resolve through early review, targeted negotiations, and outcomes that avoid unnecessary long-term harm.
Plea bargaining
In some cases, a negotiated plea can reduce the charge, narrow the allegations, or lead to a more manageable sentencing position. We only recommend a plea after reviewing disclosure and explaining the consequences.
Crown withdrawal
When the evidence is weak, inconsistent, or does not support the charge, the Crown may withdraw the case. We press for withdrawals where the facts and the law support that result.
Diversion and alternative outcomes
Some files qualify for diversion or other alternatives that keep a conviction off your record. Eligibility depends on the facts, your background, and how the Crown views the case. We assess whether these options are realistic and work toward them when appropriate.
Restorative justice
In some situations, restorative justice can form part of a resolution. This depends on the nature of the allegation, the complainant’s position, and program availability.
If your goal is to protect your record, your job, or your immigration status, we factor that into your strategy from the start.
Our Case Results for Assault Charges
R. v. A.D. | Absolute Discharge
The client was charged with assaulting his two-and-a-half-year-old daughter. Two civilian witnesses reported the incident and police arrested the client, who was held for a show cause hearing. The entire incident was captured on CCTV, creating a strong case for the Crown. The Crown initially sought a suspended sentence, probation, DNA order, and a ten-year weapons prohibition. We successfully litigated on the client’s behalf and secured an absolute discharge.
R. v. T.D. | Charges Withdrawn
The client, a young offender, was charged along with two other females with assaulting a classmate. The Crown alleged that the client and several other students approached a fellow classmate and a fight ensued, during which the three co-accused punched and kicked the victim several times in the head. We successfully negotiated the withdrawal of the charge.
R. v. D. | Charges Withdrawn
The client was charged with assault after striking a woman in a public place during an argument. A security guard witnessed the altercation. We negotiated a peace bond resolution and had the charge withdrawn.
R. v. B.R. | Charges Withdrawn
The client, a young person, was allegedly involved in an altercation with another youth on school property along with two friends. As part of the resolution, the client wrote an apology to the complainant. We successfully negotiated the withdrawal of the charge.
R. v. R. B. | Charges Withdrawn
The client faced two assault counts and was released on an undertaking. . We successfully negotiated a common-law peace bond with the Crown, resulting in the withdrawal of all charges.
R. v. I.J. | Charges Withdrawn
The client was charged with assault. The Crown alleged the client pushed his 90-year-old mother-in-law to the ground, with three civilian witnesses to the incident. We represented the client and on the morning of trial, the charge was withdrawn.
What Our Clients Say About Us
Jonathan is a realist and a man of few words, but he is absolutely a solid lawyer who fights hard to defend your case. He focuses on what truly matters and puts in the work where it counts. You always hope your case doesn’t go to trial, but if it does, be rest assured Jonathan will put in every effort to win. His cross-examination skills are top notch and he knows how to challenge the other side effectively. Highly recommend! Thank you for helping in this difficult moment!!
Jonathan is an exceptional lawyer who provides guidance and support with professionalism, care, and expertise. From start to finish, he led the process with clarity, patience, and confidence. I’m truly grateful for his support and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking outstanding legal representation.
Amazing lawyer, easygoing, understanding and helped me a ton, THANKS A LOT
Pyzer Criminal Defence Lawyers helped me get a case.The prior firm took a retainer, never communicated, never followed up and only communicated when I said I was taking my business to Jasimine and the team here. The prior firm took the retainer, didn't discuss the case and only begged and pleaded to keep the case and get it dealt with as he had family items going on. Seems like every review had that post further inspections and not a friend refferal. Jasmine, the paralegals and all the team very professional, following up every few weeks to check in, sometimes, just letting me know there's not any update. Fees in comparrision to other firms estimations were good The ONLY complaint I have about Jasmine and Jon is that there are not a lot more at the firm. Thanks J and J for getting this done.
I had never been in any legal trouble in my life but found myself in a situation one day where I was charged with two seperate things, both very different, Jonathan Pyzer worked with me for two years to ensure a favorable outcome for both cases. He even discounted the fees when one case dragged on for an extended period of time due to administrive issues with the courts. Mr. Pyzer is a consummate professional and I would reccomend his services to anyone in need of them.
I was in a predicament where persons of authority were taking my truth and twisting it to paint me as a villain although I was the victim. Jasmine truly was my strength at an extremely vulnerable time in my life. She told me what would happen and was fully confident in getting the best resolution which was all charges being dismissed. Having being represented by Jasmine totally empowered me by transforming me from victim to victor. Forever thankful!!!
I cannot thank Jasmine Mann enough for giving me my life back. I was facing very serious criminal charges that could have destroyed everything I’ve worked for. From the very first meeting, Jasmine was calm, confident, and completely honest with me about what to expect. She listened to my side without judgment, explained every step clearly, and fought relentlessly on my behalf. Thanks to her skill, preparation, and determination in court, ALL of my charges were withdrawn. Walking out of that courthouse a free man felt like being “reborn,” just like she promised was possible on the hardest days. If you’re looking for a criminal lawyer who actually cares, knows the law inside out, and will fight for you like you’re family, Jasmine Mann is the one. She’s not just an excellent lawyer; she’s the reason I get a second chance at life. I will never be able to repay her, but I will recommend her to anyone who needs the absolute best defense. Thank you, Jasmine, from the bottom of my heart.
Second time dealing with Jonathan Pyzer and second time with a favourable outcome. Both Jonathan and Jasmine are great at communicating and explaining exactly what is and can happen. Highly recommend Pyzer Criminal lawyers if you find yourself in trouble with the law. Big thanks to Jonathan and his team!
I had the most positive experience with this business! Jasmine Mann is an out of this world amazing lawyer and I could never thank her and the business enough for there services! Would highly reccomend! Charges were withdrawn from my case! I could never be happier!
Thank you Jasmine Mann✨ you did an amazing job. Thank you Pyzer amazing job
Having never been experienced with the criminal justice system, I had no idea of what to expect. Mr Pyzer made no bones about my case and it's complexities and was very straight with me about what the possible outcomes could be and how we should proceed. He didn't just get a "good" outcome. He got the best possible outcome I could hope for. Very well recommended, and I hope to never see Jonathan in the same circumstances again.
Honestly!! Jasmine words can't explain how grateful and thankful I am for you, helping me with my case. She took her time and went through all of the evidence and came out with a win!!...I highly recommend her!!
Jonathan Pyzer is an incredible lawyer. He fought tirelessly for me and proved my innocence. From start to finish, he was professional, supportive, and truly cared about my case. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a criminal defense lawyer.
Mr. Pyzer is a phenomenal lawyer with a wealth of experience that allows him to think outside the box and build smart, effective strategies for your case. He’s honest and direct, he doesn’t sugarcoat things, but instead gives you a clear picture of what to expect. You can trust that he’ll always aim for the best possible outcome and follow through with real dedication. Highly recommended if you want someone knowledgeable, straightforward, and truly on your side.
Jonathan is a patient, understanding, and incredible lawyer. I couldn’t be more pleased with his professionalism and how he helped me through my case which ended with the best resolution possible.
Jonny was incredible! He guided me through every step of my case and worked hard to get the best outcome. Thanks to his dedication and expertise, we won! I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great lawyer.
1000 stars For Ms.Mann and her Team ! She was handling my father’s case for over a year. Being all the way in the USA & not near my father. She made it easy to contact whatever questions my family and I had was answered and followed up with in a timely manner! Very professional and very knowledgeable about mental health overall. Her patience and care made it seem like she was apart of the family. Thank you Ms.Mann!
I was unexpectedly incarcerated last year and my family did their due diligence when selecting a defense lawyer and selected Ms. Jasmine Mann. She was there for me from the beginning to end. Ms Mann was very professional, hard working and supportive. Although she was highly recommended, she exceeded the recommendation by going above and beyond for me. I can’t thank Ms Mann and her team enough.
I reached out to Ms Mann last year to assist with a complicated criminal matter for my brother in three Ontario jurisdictions. The matters were complicated by underlying mental health dynamics. I live in the USA. Ms Mann took the case and she and her team worked closely with us for over a year to bring everything to a favorable resolution. She was personable, accessible and knowledgeable about navigating the legal system. I would recommend her services!
Jasmin Mann is an outstanding criminal defence lawyer. She’s sharp, professional, and truly cares about her clients. She fought hard for me and got results I didn’t think were possible. Always kept me informed and treated me with respect the whole way through. Highly recommend if you need someone who will really fight for you.
“I will get your case dropped” Those were the words that Atty. Jasmine Mann said with confidence when I first entered her office, And she did. She never made me feel worried or stressed about my situation. Her incredible knowledge was a strong asset to make me feel supported and guided. I am grateful for all that she has done for me I will never have a second thought of recommending her to anyone that is in need of an awesome, knowledgeable and experienced lawyer like her.
I can’t thank Mr Jonathan Pyzer enough for the incredible work he did on my case. Facing criminal charges was one of the most stressful times of my life, especially when the other party is at the fault for the accident, but he handled everything with confidence, clarity, and compassion from day one. He was always honest, responsive, and strategic — and ultimately, he got the charges dropped. His knowledge of the law and courtroom presence gave me peace of mind, and the result speaks for itself. If you’re looking for a lawyer who genuinely fights for you, look no further. Highly recommended.
Jasmine was confident, professional, and never wavered in her support and care by ensuring quality legal counsel services #vindicated
Right from the get go Jasmine was confident, strategic and reassuring. After our initial meeting she understood my situation, quickly had a strategy and a direction to begin with. Throughout the process her confidence never faltered, and was always there reassuring me even when my stress and anxiety was at its peak. Her preparedness, knowledge, and direct delivery made me feel confident in her being my voice and communicating for me. She clearly is passionate and sincere in this field, showing excitement and eagerness from little victories throughout my case. In the end, Jasmine was able to withdraw all charges brought forth against me, I couldn’t imagine having anyone else in my corner, thank you so much Jasmine!
I had the pleasure with working alongside Jasmine Mann. I don’t know why, but when I was incarcerated, I had to make a tough decision and fast. That decision is what led to my freedom. To this day, I’m grateful for everything she provided me. She made me a promise years ago and I’ll never forget it. “EVERYTHING will be fine, I just need you to co-operate with me and listen to myself and your mother. I took that advice, made a complete 180 and now I’m without a criminal record. I not only have the best lawyer, but a friend I can talk to at any given moment. Thank you jasmine, you mean the world. You took a risk with me and it paid off.
I have had Mr. Pyzer represent me twice. Once when I was charged at the age of 18, then 18 years later when charged. I didn’t think twice to ask to have him defend me yet again. His professionalism and presents in court are proof of what a phenomenal lawyer he is ! I still remain with no criminal record. I consider him my lawyer and will only use him for counsel. I believe with Johnathan and his firm, you are in the best hands.
I had the pleasure of working with Jasmine Mann for just over a year, and I’m incredibly grateful for her support and guidance. She helped me navigate a very difficult time when my mental health was significantly impacted by external pressures related to the legal system. Jasmine was not only a strong advocate on my behalf, but also deeply empathetic and sensitive to my emotional well-being. Her support gave me a voice and played a big role in my healing process. I highly recommend her to anyone in need of a compassionate and dedicated lawyer.
Never in my life did I expect to face a charge, very traumatic experience. I called many places and they all said they can maybe get a discharge, but then I called this place and jasmine mann said she can maybe get it withdrawn outright. Followed all her instructions and a few months later it was withdrawn. Highly recommend -posted from a burner account
Words cannot express how grateful I am to Jonathan Pyzer. He handled my case from start to finish with exceptional service and professionalism. His expertise, guidance and dedication were instrumental in achieving a positive outcome. Thank you again for your outstanding representation and I would recommend him to anyone seeking top-notch legal counsel. Jenny
Jonathan is a professional of a few words and promises but he works tirelessly "behind the scenes" to make things happen. He is focused on providing best possible results for his clients. Jonathan is will organized and articulate. It seems that he is well respected by many people in the legal system. You can be sure that you will receive the best possible defence with him. Nik
There are professionals who claim they are professional. And then, there are professionals who are professional and beyond- this type of course, being the rare and the very few. This is, unequivocally the category in which Mr. Johnathan Pyzer belongs. This is a very meaningful review for several reasons. First, because I never write reviews, but for Johnathan there was no question. Second, because it’s factual. These are not only compliments, but facts. Johnathan has only ever exemplified ethics and integrity throughout my work with him. As someone in Psychology- one who refers my own patients/clients to lawyers on a regular basis- I had once been faced with the crushing reality that based on having been unjustly-charged, I might never be able to practice again. My job is to NEVER judge my clients, and all at once I feared myself being judged-in probably the same my own clients feared of me. Johnathan never once judged me. His even-keeled, consistent compassion, made me feel deeply safe professionally. I have and will continue to refer those in these kinds of need, to Johnathan. I would like to briefly mention someone very important: Mandi. Mandi is Johnathan’s Articling Student. Mandi was the most maternal, supportive and calming professional. I will end shortly, but I have read some comment about fees. In terms of Mr.Pyzers fees— Whilst I understand that a fee can be a lot of money, I also ask that if you are here, you are here for your freedom, and Mr. Pyzer’s fee is very much worth the rate. Every day I texted him, he would ALWAYS respond before the end of the day. This is merely one example of the care and ethics he will always invest in your case and your trust with the utmost sincerity. To Sum up, in the words of Alan Simpson, “If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters”. Johnathan Pyzer simultaneously defines, and serves the word ‘integrity’.
Jonathan was a pleasure to deal with. Very to the point, but empathetic when I was upset. He was able to get my charges withdrawn and helped me understand what was going on throughout the process. The charges against me were quite serious and he took them as such. Thank you a thousand times, Jonathan. I hope to never need your services again, but will definitely be ready to recommend you to anyone in trouble.
Mr. Pyzer and his law firm hands down are outstanding lawyers. He did what needs to be done and provides exquisite service. Fights for your case with all his heart to get the best results. Will definitely recommend him as a lawyer, you won’t be disappointed
Highly recommend! Jasmine provided exceptional service and was supportive throughout the entire process
Jonathan was great to work with and handled everything without any problems. He made the process smooth and stress free. If you’re looking for a reliable lawyer, I would 100% recommend Jonathan. Thank you for helping me achieve the best possible outcome in my legal matter
Jonathan is an amazing lawyer that is very knowledgeable and understanding. He did a great job by our respective family.
Excellent Legal Representation! I can’t thank Jonathan enough for his exceptional work on my son's case. From the start, he was professional, thorough, and always kept us informed throughout the process. His expertise and dedication led to a successful outcome, and we are incredibly grateful. If you need a skilled and compassionate criminal lawyer, Jonathan is the one to trust. Highly recommend!
Words can’t even explain how grateful I am for Jonathan and all the work and time he has put into my case. Jonathan was respectful, knowledgeable, and professional throughout this whole process and I don’t know what I would have done without him. He was able to get my charges withdrawn and not once did I doubt his expertise because I knew I put my case in the hands of someone who knows what they are doing. I am beyond thankful for the work he has put in and highly recommend Jonathan. Thank you Jonathan!!!
Day one on meeting Johnathan my son and I encountered professionalism , patience and understanding . He worked with us truly . I was very impressed by Johathan expertise he achieved an outstanding result . Mr pyzier is highly respected and recommended .
Jonathan was professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the process. His expertise and dedication helped me achieve the best result. Highly recommend!
Jonathan was very helpful when I encountered my self with a bad situation. I did not research for other lawyers since I trusted him from the beginning. Later I found I did overpay but that’s okay. When we went to court, my limit for the day in e transfer was at the top, he said well we should re schedule the court day. I managed to send him the transfer from other account. Was supposed to follow up to remove my fingerprints from Toronto police but never reached out and I tried texting him also for an invoice after I paid and also he never replied. He is very knowledgeable. Update: Mr Pyzer emailed me right away and it was a misunderstanding. Thank you for your great work.
Jonathan Pyzer is an exceptional criminal defense lawyer in the GTA.His trustworthiness is one of his standout qualities.he never gives false hope and always provide genuine advice.His professionalism and commitment to his clients are truly commendable.Throught the entire process of my case ,Jonathan demonstrated a deep understanding of the law ,detail attention and his strategic approach ensured the best possible outcome. His communication skills are top-notch,consistently keeping clients informed and explaining complex legal term in an easy to understand manner.I am so grateful to his service and highly recommend.He genuinely cares about his clients and fights tirelessly for their rights.
Everything with Jonathan went pretty smooth like fine wine. Highly recommended
Jasmine is literally to me my light in shining armor. She is so kind so warm I was really in the worst mental state possible bt by just talking to her put my mind at ease. Honestly she is an angel. ❤️ If you are ever stuck which I hope you are not but if you are look for jasmine not only she will put your mind at ease bt tell you all the possibilities.
Pyzer Criminal Lawyers (Jasmine) did an excellent job on my case. I would highly recommend their services. Simply very professional services. Thank you Jasmine
Thank you so much, Jasmine Mann and your wonderful team. Unfortunately, I was falsely accused of something that I never did. Jasmine Mann helped me clear my name. Jasmine Mann is an experienced, professional, supportive, and wonderful lawyer. Thank you so much again, Jasmine Mann and you wonderful team.
Get Help From An Experienced Assault Lawyer
The field of criminal law can be complicated. If police charged you with assault, get legal advice early. A short call can clarify what you face and what to do next, including how to deal with release conditions, contact restrictions, and upcoming court dates.
In your free case evaluation, you can expect:
- A confidential case evaluation and initial assessment.
- A plain-English explanation of the charge and potential consequences.
- A customised defence strategy overview based on your facts and timeline.
- No obligation to retain our services.
- A clear explanation of legal fees and costs before you decide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Assault
Understanding Assault Charges
The difference comes down to what the Crown alleges happened and the harm involved. Assault is the basic offence and usually involves force without consent. Assault with a weapon applies when a weapon is used or threatened during the incident. Assault causing bodily harm applies when the complainant suffers bodily harm, which means more than minor or temporary pain. Aggravated assault is the most serious and involves allegations of wounding, maiming, disfiguring, or endangering life.
The difference is the alleged harm and risk. Simple assault is the basic offence. Aggravated assault involves allegations that the complainant was wounded, maimed, disfigured, or that their life was endangered. It carries a much higher maximum penalty.
Not always. Assault can include an attempt or gesture that makes someone reasonably believe you can apply force. Police can also lay an assault-related charge based on threatening conduct involving a weapon, even if no one was hit.
Battery is a US legal concept relating to the application of force and is not a legal term in Canadian courts. However, it is sometimes used in describing certain facts, such as the use of force against another that results in offensive or harmful contact.
Is it assault if I accidentally hit someone?
Usually, no. Assault generally requires intentional force without consent. If the contact was truly accidental, that can be a defence. That said, cases often turn on whether the action was actually accidental. For example, if you swung at someone and missed but your arm connected, the Crown may still argue you used force intentionally. A lawyer can review the facts and the evidence to assess whether intent is a real issue in your case.
Assault Charge Outcomes and Consequences
It depends on the charge and how the Crown proceeds. As a general guide, simple assault can carry up to two years less a day if the Crown proceeds by summary conviction or up to five years if the Crown proceeds by indictment. Assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm can carry up to 10 years. Aggravated assault can carry up to 14 years. Courts can also impose probation, fines, weapons prohibitions, and other orders.
It can. A criminal record may lead to problems at the border, including refusal of entry or added screening. US border officials have broad discretion, and issues often arise when people try to travel for work or family reasons.
Yes. If you are not a Canadian citizen, a conviction can create serious immigration consequences, including inadmissibility issues. It can also complicate permanent residence and citizenship applications. Get legal advice early so your defence strategy accounts for immigration risk.
A conviction can limit job options, promotions, and roles that require screening. Many employers run background checks, especially for positions involving trust, vulnerable people, cash, driving, or security access. Even when a discharge is available, it may still show on checks until it is removed under the applicable timelines.
Defence and Legal Process
Yes. The Crown can withdraw charges when the evidence does not support the allegation, witnesses are unreliable, or the case no longer meets the legal test for prosecution. A defence lawyer can review disclosure, identify weaknesses, and make focused requests for withdrawal or a more appropriate resolution.
Get legal advice as soon as possible. Follow your release conditions, show up for every court date, and avoid contact with the complainant or witnesses if your conditions restrict it. Do not discuss the incident by text, social media, or phone. Save messages, photos, or other records that may help your defence and share them with your lawyer.
Self-defence is a legal justification under Section 34 of the Criminal Code. It can apply when you reasonably believed you faced an immediate threat and you used force that matched that threat. The court looks at what happened in the moment and whether your response was reasonable in the circumstances.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects rights during police contact, including the right to counsel and protections against unreasonable search and seizure. If police violated your Charter rights during detention, search, or questioning, your lawyer can raise a Charter issue and ask the court to address it. In some cases, the court may exclude evidence obtained through the violation.
Case Resolution and Timeline
It depends on the charge, the amount of disclosure, whether there are bail issues, and whether the case resolves early or goes to trial. Some matters are resolved in a few months. Others can take a year or longer, especially if a trial is needed. A lawyer can give you a more realistic range after reviewing the allegations and the disclosure status.
PARS usually refers to the Partner Assault Response (PAR) program. It is a court-connected program used in many Ontario domestic-violence cases. It is typically a 12-session group program ordered or required as part of a court process, often through early intervention, a peace bond, bail conditions, or sentencing.
Completing PAR can support certain resolution discussions in appropriate cases, but it is not automatic, and it does not guarantee a specific outcome.
Sometimes. A conditional discharge is more common in lower-level cases where the facts, your background, and the Crown’s position support a non-conviction outcome. The court must also agree it is appropriate in the circumstances. If it is on the table, your lawyer should explain the conditions, the risks, and how it affects your record. See the “Impact on Your Criminal Record” section above for how discharges work.
Early advice helps you avoid mistakes that can harm your case. A lawyer can address bail and release conditions, guide you before any police interview, preserve helpful evidence like messages or video, and start pushing for disclosure and resolution options as soon as the case opens.
