Harassment Defence Lawyer
At Bonn Law, we understand the severity of being charged with harassment and the impact it can have on your life. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process with skill and compassion. We would carefully protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.
Under Canadian law, criminal harassment refers to various acts of stalking, such as repeated acts of watching, following, contacting, or threatening a victim. These acts involve unwanted attention from the person(s) who may later try to use force against the victim. Most people accused of stalking know the victim, but about 12 percent of cases in Canada involve a stranger.
What Happens After You’re Charged with Harassment in Ontario?
Facing a harassment charge can feel overwhelming. What may have started as repeated contact or a personal dispute can quickly escalate into a criminal allegation. After your arrest, you may be released on strict conditions or required to attend a bail hearing.
From there, your case moves through the criminal process, including:
- Disclosure of evidence
- Pre-trial motions
- Possible trial
At Bonn Law, we guide you through each step, ensuring your rights are protected and your side of the story is heard.
Understanding Harassment Charges
264: Harassment
- No person shall, without lawful authority and knowing that another person is harassed or recklessly as to whether the other person is harassed, engage in conduct referred to in subsection (2) that causes that other person reasonably, in all the circumstances, to fear for their safety or the safety of anyone known to them.
- The conduct mentioned in subsection (1) consists of
- repeatedly following from place to place the other person or anyone known to them;
- repeatedly communicating with, either directly or indirectly, the other person or anyone known to them;
- besetting or watching the dwelling-house, or place where the other person, or anyone known to them, resides, works, carries on business or happens to be; or
- engaging in threatening conduct directed at the other person or any member of their family.
- Every person who contravenes this section is guilty of
- an indictable offence and is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years; or
- an offence punishable on summary conviction.
- Where a person is convicted of an offence under this section, the court imposing the sentence on the person shall consider as an aggravating factor that, at the time the offence was committed, the person contravened
- the terms or conditions of an order made pursuant to section 161 or a recognizance entered into pursuant to section 810, 810.1 or 810.2; or
- the terms or conditions of any other order or recognizance, or of an undertaking, made or entered into under the common law, this Act or any other Act of Parliament or of a provincial legislature that is similar in effect to an order or recognizance referred to in paragraph (a).
- Where the court is satisfied of the existence of an aggravating factor referred to in subsection (4), but decides not to give effect to it for sentencing purposes, the court shall give reasons for its decision.
Key Elements of Harassment
This offence does not need a particular outcome, such as physical injury, theft, fraud, or murder, to be considered a crime. Instead, what is examined is whether the behaviour has been repeated over time and caused reasonable fear in the victim. To prove the charge of harassment, the Crown must show any of the following,
- That someone has been intentionally following a person from place to place, or people known to them.
- Repeatedly communicating with them directly or indirectly, or anyone who knows them.
- Watching them or where they live, or anywhere they are known to live or visit frequently.
- Engaging in threatening conduct directed at the person or their family.
We are here for you! Being charged with harassment can often feel overwhelming and isolating. At Bonn Law, we’re here to support you, not just as legal professionals, but as people who genuinely care about your well-being. Our lawyers will thoroughly review the evidence, explore every legal avenue, and build a strong defence that reflects your unique circumstances. We also carefully examine whether your Charter Rights were respected throughout the process.
What’s at Stake
A conviction for harassment can have lasting effects, including a criminal record that may impact your job prospects, ability to travel, and more. At Bonn Law, we are committed to helping you face these challenges with confidence and compassion, working tirelessly to protect your future.
Real-Life Consequences of a Harassment Conviction
A criminal harassment conviction can affect far more than your immediate life or prison sentence. It may lead to:
- Difficulty securing or keeping employment
- Barriers to international travel (including to the U.S.)
- Strained personal and family relationships
- Lasting damage to your reputation
Our lawyers work tirelessly to help minimize these consequences and protect your future.
Why Choose Bonn Law for Your Harassment Defence
1. Proven Experience in Criminal Defence
Our team has extensive experience handling harassment cases. We know how to navigate the complexities of the legal system and build a strategic defence tailored to your unique situation
2. Personalized, Compassionate Support
We recognize that every case is different. That is why we take the time to understand your story, explain your legal options clearly, and support you through every step of the process. You are not just another case number – you are a person who deserves a fair defence.
3. Strong Track Record of Results
Bonn Law has earned a reputation for excellence in criminal defence. Our lawyers are known for their integrity, diligence, and results-driven approach. We fight to protect your rights and minimize the impact of criminal charges on your future
4. Local Knowledge and Courtroom Expertise
Based in Belleville, Ontario, we have deep knowledge of the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. This insight allows us to anticipate challenges and advocate effectively on your behalf.
5. Full-Service Legal Support
Whether your case involves complex evidence, multiple charges, or related legal issues, our team is equipped to handle it all. We collaborate closely to ensure no detail is overlooked.
Contact Bonn Law Today
If you have been criminally charged with harassment, do not wait to seek legal representation. Contact Bonn Law today! Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the best possible outcome. Your future is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Our lawyers practicing in this area include:
