Charitsis Law

Hamilton Criminal Lawyers

Criminal Lawyers for Hamilton & area Courts

Charitsis Law

Hamilton
Criminal Lawyers

High Ratings

Hamilton Criminal Lawyer reviews
Criminal Defence Lawyers

Experienced

With thousands of wins & favorable results, our Hamilton criminal lawyers have defended over 5000 cases in Hamilton & throughout Ontario. We win cases, avoid Criminal records and to keep driver licences.

We Get Results

Years of legal experience as crown attorneys, prosecutors and criminal defence lawyers throughout the GTA and in Hamilton. We know the defence strategies to protect your future.  About Us >

Hamilton Criminal Lawyer & Former Crown Attorney

At Charitsis Law, our team of skilled Hamilton criminal lawyers are committed to winning your case and delivering a successful outcomes.

We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and we are here to provide you with qualified and experienced criminal lawyers for the Hamilton, Hamilton Wentworth, and GTA Courts.

With a proven track record of success, our criminal defence lawyers have successfully represented over 5,000 criminal cases in the last 20 years and is one of the best-reviewed law offices in Hamilton and throughout Ontario.

Protect your rights, your future and your freedom by choosing Charitsis Law. Contact us today at 416-731-7113 (24 hours) for a free consultation.

Burlington Criminal Lawyer Nicholas Charitsis
Criminal Lawyer Nick Charitsis

Hamilton Criminal Lawyers

HAMILTON CRIMINAL DEFENCE

If you’re accused of a crime in Hamilton, then you need a criminal defence lawyer with experience and a track record of winning trials at the Hamilton criminal courts.

Charitsis Law is a Hamilton criminal law office representing persons charged with criminal offences in the Hamilton at the Superior Courts, Hamilton Court of Justice and throughout Halton Region the GTA.

We treat each client with respect, determination – and as if their case were our own. We charge a reasonable legal fee, based upon our commitment to you and high level of service.

Our law office in Hamilton has been highly ranked and reviewed by organizations like Google, LawyerRatingz.com, and the Better Business Bureau of Hamilton.

Past results are not necessarily indicative of future results and litigation outcomes will vary according to the facts in individual cases.

Our team of Hamilton criminal defence advocates work together with experts including, medical professionals, paralegals and retired police officers to ensure the best possible legal defence.

We understand how criminal defence at the Hamilton Courthouse operates, the law and justice in Hamilton. We pride ourselves on doing everything possible to win your case.

Criminal hearings in Hamilton are held at the:

John Sopinka Courthouse
45 Main St E, Hamilton, ON L8N 2B7

Hamilton Criminal Defence Lawyer

Past results are not necessarily indicative of future results and litigation outcomes will vary according to the facts in individual cases.

Ontario’s Best Reviewed Lawyers

Muskoka-Criminal-Lawyer-Better-Business-Bureau-
Muskoka Criminal Lawyer reviews
LawyerRatingz-Newmarket-Criminal-Lawyer-Reviews

Did As Promised

★★★★★  Very respectful and intelligent Lawyer, I’m absolutely thrilled with the result of my sister’s DUI charges, she was charged with over 80mg, and impaired driving, Nicholas did exactly as promised and dropped both charges to a traffic ticket, he was able to negotiate with the crown to get the best possible outcome, I would definitely recommend him to anyone charged with DUI.

Saved My Licence

★★★★★  Without a doubt the best criminal lawyer in the Hamilton. I called him late at night after being charged with Failing to Provide a Breathalyzer. Nick told me not to worry because he would handle the case. I saved my drivers licence and all the hassles with my insurance company. I didn’t even need to show up in court Nick had my charges dropped in no time. I’m very grateful for choosing him as my lawyer and I would not hesitate referring him to all my friends and family.

Client Focused

★★★★★  He was always available when I needed him and his staff were well informed about my case giving me regular updates as I needed him. Nicholas proved to me that his main focus is his client and he’s not out there to make a quick buck. Most importantly he knows his stuff and he’s well respected in the Hamilton & Halton Region criminal courts. That goes a long way in getting positive results for his clients. I would recommend him highly.

Charges Dropped Quickly

★★★★★  In my experience was the Charitsis Law team worked day and night to resolve my case. Every case is different but they had my charges dropped very quickly. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of a criminal lawyer.

Great Hamilton Lawyer

★★★★★  Nick was very professional in dealing with my criminal case. His fees are not cheap but trust me when I say “you won’t be disappointed”. He and his team are very organised, kept me in the loop on what to expect at the court and what was coming next. My matter was resolved favourably. I was very pleased with the entire process. If you want great Hamilton lawyer with results and positive outcomes, I would hire Nick again.

Knew How to Beat My Case

★★★★★  I highly recommend Mr. Nicholas. When I met him first, he told me he knew how to beat my case to not have a criminal record. He always reassured me, I knew where we were in the process, helped me keep perspective on my defence while offering help. And finally he beat my case like he told me!

Amazing Criminal Lawyer

★★★★★  An amazing criminal lawyer and he knows what he is doing. As soon as we contacted him, we discussed the incident and he knew exactly how to WIN the case. Nicholas is very professional in terms of follow ups and he is fast. He did win the case!

Above Expectations

★★★★★  I was in need of a criminal lawyer and was referred to Nicholas. I couldn’t have asked for anything more! He was professional, courteous and took the time to analyse all aspects of my case for the best possible outcome. He was always well prepared and knew what to suggest for each step of the way. The result was above expectations and I was grateful for the outcome. I would highly recommend him.

Goes the Extra Mile

★★★★★  Excellent Lawyer! Extremely honest and hard working. As a criminal defence lawyer he goes the extra mile for his clients. He will continue fighting until the best possible outcome is achieved. He explains the process in easy to understand language and makes you feel like part of the solution by involving you through every step of the case. He’s a great lawyer criminal cases in Hamilton.

Respected Criminal Lawyer

★★★★★  By far the most honest, hard working criminal lawyer that I have ever come across. His assistance with beating my domestic assault charges was incredible. He was well respected by the crown attorney and Judge courthouse getting all of my charges dropped. The judge even commented at the hearing to say that I had a great lawyer. I wouldn’t hesitate recommending him to my family and friends.

Highly Professional

★★★★★  About 6 weeks ago, I had a lapse in judgement and unfortunately found myself on the wrong side of the law. Immediately after the incident, I did a lot of due diligence to find and select the right kind of representation for my case.  I needed Hamilton Criminal Lawyer, it was clear to me that Nick was highly knowledgeable, skilled and connected within his area of expertise. I found the overall service at Charitsis Law to be prompt, efficient and highly professional.

Past results are not necessarily indicative of future results and litigation outcomes will vary according to the facts in individual cases.

Meet Nicholas Charitsis

Hamilton criminal lawyer Nicholas Charitsis is a graduate from Osgoode Hall Law School.

Nick earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree (with distinction) from the Schulich School of Business at York University, where he graduated in the top 5% of the class.

Nicholas worked as an Assistant Crown Attorney for the Attorney General’s office at the Old City Hall, College Park, 1000 Finch, and 311 Jarvis Courthouses.

In this video criminal lawyer Nicholas Charitsis explains his team approach to defending criminal charges.

Service Oriented Law Firm

As Hamilton criminal lawyers we work to provide successful and positive outcomes in criminal defence by defending your rights, character and work to protect your future. Ninety nine (99) percent of the cases we’ve handled in Hamilton have ended with a positive outcome. Our goal at the Hamilton & Halton courthouses is to have your charge(s) dismissed, and dropped with no criminal record or licence suspensions.

Hamilton Criminal Lawyers

As criminal defence lawyers we firmly believe that when you’re arrested – you need immediate legal counsel. That’s why we always have a Hamilton lawyer available to help you 24/7. In addition, there are two (2) criminal defence lawyers assigned to each case ensuring that there is always someone available, to handle any concerns you may have.

As defence lawyers we thoroughly investigate all legal evidence against our clients, and prepare each case for trial.

Successful Track Record

We pride ourselves on professional aggressive defence and successful track record at the Hamilton courts – our goal is to win your case and to avoid criminal records, suspensions and even jail. Our commitment to our clients is that we will do whatever it takes to win, with hundred and ten (110) percent effort. We work with you, so that our fees aren’t a burden on you – or your family.

As defence lawyers we thoroughly investigate all legal evidence against our clients, and prepare each case for trial.

Hamilton Criminal Practice Areas

We Provide Criminal Defence for all Charges Including:

  • Assault

    The Criminal Code outlines many methods by which a person can be guilty of arson. The consequences are strict, and based on the extent of damage and harm, the harshest penalty could be life in prison.

  • Sexual Assault

    Sexual assault involves any unwanted sexual act or behavior forced upon an individual without their consent. This violation can carry significant legal repercussions, and depending on its severity, perpetrators can face long-term imprisonment.

  • Domestic Assault

    Domestic assault refers to physical, emotional, or psychological harm inflicted upon a person by a intimate partner or family member.

  • Obstruct Justice

    Obstruct Justice refers to intentionally taking actions that interfere with or impede the proper functioning of the judicial system. This can encompass behaviors like misleading law enforcement, tampering with evidence, or influencing witnesses.

  • Youth Criminal Justice Act

    The Youth Criminal Justice Act in Canada is a specialized legal framework dedicated to addressing offenscs committed by individuals aged 12 to 17. Navigating this system requires a understanding and a tailored approach to ensure that young people’s rights are upheld & their futures are protected.

  • Criminal Records

    A criminal record in Canada is a formal record of offences that an individual has been convicted of. Having such a record can impact various aspects of life, from employment opportunities to travel restrictions, underscoring the importance of understanding its implications and seeking avenues for record suspensions.

  • Pardons

    Individuals convicted of criminal offence(s) may qualify for a Record Suspension after a specific duration. Factors like the nature of the charges, the penalties given, and the sentencing dates play crucial roles in determining eligibility.

  • Impaired Driving

    Impaired driving, refers to operating a vehicle while one’s ability to do so is compromised by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. It’s a serious offence that can result in a criminal record, license suspension and possible imprisonment

  • Refuse Breathalyzer

    When a demand is made by a police officer for a breathalyzer test, should the driver refuse without lawful excuse they commit a criminal offence, with penalties the same as if they failed the test and are charged with impaired driving.

  • Drive over .08

    Canadian law sets a clear line for alcohol consumption while driving: where a driver’s blood alcohol concentration measures over 0.08mgs (or 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 milliliters of blood), they’re breaking the law and could face penalties like fines, license suspensions, and even jail.

  • Utter Threats

    Uttering Threats means expressing an intention to harm someone or their property. The criminal charge doesn’t just cover physical harm but can also include threats to damage belongings or even pets. Making such threats is taken seriously and can result in legal consequences, underscoring the significance of words and the power they hold.

  • Highway Traffic Act Offences

    The Ontario Highway Traffic Act regulates road safety and vehicular travel in Ontario, covering everything from speeding and seatbelt violations to more severe offences careless driving. Breaching its provisions can lead to fines, demerit points, license suspensions, or even imprisonment.

  • Fingerprint Removal

    Upon being charged with an criminal offence, police typically collect your fingerprints and photographs as part of the arrest. Where you’re acquitted, have your charges dropped, or obtain a non-conviction outcome, you can request the deletion of the  fingerprints and photos taken at the time of arrest, often after a designated waiting period.

  • Bail Hearings

    Bail hearing are proceeding to determine whether an accused person should be released or detained while awaiting trial. The decision is based upon the nature of the crime, criminal history, and risk of them not appearing in court or any danger to the public.

  • Theft

    Theft as in taking someone else’s property without permission or legal right, and/or intending to deprive the owner of it. Committing theft includes consequences that can include fines, restitution, or imprisonment.

  • Drive While Prohibited

    Criminal licence suspensions can be life-altering. Most criminal suspensions are mandatory and can occur for multiple reasons, the length of time it’s suspended can be advocated by our defence team and hinges on different considerations.

  • Fail to Remain

    leaving the scene post-accident without fulfilling your duties can lead to a “Fail to Remain” charge. The law takes this seriously; those found guilty may find themselves paying fines, losing their license, or even spending time in jail.

  • Breach of Probation

    Breach of Probation refers to failing to follow the conditions set out in a probation order after a criminal conviction. Not following these terms can lead the judge to impose additional legal consequences, which may include potential fines, extended probation, or even imprisonment.

  • Quasi-Criminal Proceedings

    Beyond the offences outlined in the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs & Substances Act, various federal and provincial regulations can lead to penalties as stringent as those in traditional criminal law. Being convicted of these “quasi-criminal” violations can result in substantial fines and potential imprisonment.

How Criminal Records Affect You

Criminal records are for life and can affect you and your family in the following ways
  • Employment: People with a criminal record may have trouble getting a job.
  • Travel: When traveling internationally, border guards can ask about your criminal record and prevent entry.
  • Border Crossing: If you’ve been convicted of drunk driving, U.S. border officers can stop you driving into the USA.
  • Volunteering: If you want to volunteer, some organizations will not accept persons with a criminal record.
  • Professional designations:  Where you are a professional you may be obligated to report your record.
  • Immigration: When applying to immigrate or change residency status in a country, your criminal record will be a factor in the decision.

Many employers require a criminal record check, and will not hire someone with a criminal conviction.

If you wish to work in a government agency you may find that employment is denied or you may be required to obtain a criminal record suspension (pardon) before considered for work.

When dealing with family law or child custody issues a judge can take into consideration the criminal record as evidence of the person’s character. A criminal record could be considered evidence of bad character which may have an impact on who or under what terms child custody or visitation rights maybe granted.

Any person applying for Canadian citizenship will be denied citizenship if they have a criminal record. Those persons who do not have permanent residency in Canada maybe deported where they commit criminal acts in Canada.

If you are not a Canadian citizen you can be deported due to criminal acts.

What Does a Lawyer Cost?

In legal battles, you typically get one chance to make your case. This isn’t the time to opt for discounts or inexperienced hands.

With your driver’s licence, job, and family at stake, you need more than just representation. You need the best possible defence lawyer on your side, a law office known for winning and getting positive resolutions.

Don’t take our word for it, though – read our hundreds of positive client reviews on Google, Better Business Bureau, and Lawyerratingz.com.com before choosing us for your defence team.

As experienced criminal lawyers for Hamilton, we’re committed to providing high quality top-tier representation. We’ll handle every aspect of your case, including speaking with the Crown Attorney, court dates, legal arguments including trial preparation and your defence.

The cost to defend you in court depends. What are you charged with, the circumstances, and was there an injury or violence.  When you call we’ll tell you the cost up front.  Our fees are based upon our high level of success and the circumstances your facing.

Our Philosophy as Criminal Defence Lawyers

Hamilton criminal lawyers need to be on top of the cases they represent and we care about the number of cases we take each month. Our goal is to provide superior criminal defence to our clients in Hamilton and Halton Region. Our objective is to provide an impeccable legal defence, to have your charges dismissed. Our reputation is why many of our clients refer us to their friends and family members.

Risk Free Consultation

As criminal lawyers in Hamilton we offer a free consultation, in person or over the phone.

During this meeting with the lawyer, we can answer any questions you may have, for example, what are the criminal penalties for the charge, what do police have to prove, and how can we fight the allegation. When discussing your criminal defence, this means either looking at getting the case dismissed, or reduced to avoid penalties like a criminal record,  licence suspensions and even jail. We believe that once you discuss your defence with us, you will see how Charitsis Law are the Hamilton defence lawyers for your legal representation.

What does a criminal lawyer do?

Criminal cases are built on evidence that must meet the standard of reasonable doubt. As criminal lawyers at the Hamilton and Halton Region courts we can evaluate the evidence for legal applications, evidence by the police, and legal arguments. Arresting officers must follow arrest protocols and the rules of evidence in a criminal investigation. And, many times over-zealous police officers and prosecutors will prosecute an innocent individual. As defence lawyers we contest all inadmissible evidence and move to have any immaterial case facts dismissed.

Defending Cases in Hamilton

When you retain a criminal lawyer they cross-examine and question the statements of the officer including the motivation for the arrest, when it obvious that charges are based on evidence that maybe weak or borderline. Having a defence lawyer who is willing to take a case to complete trial can be important. Criminal defendants should never plead guilty to a criminal accusation when innocent, as a criminal record can have a major impact on your life going forward, including denial for government benefits, employment, public housing and immigration.

Criminal Lawyers an Investment in Your Future

Criminal lawyers representing your case is an investment in your personal future.

It is never a good decision to go before the Hamilton court without legal representation. Without an advocate at your side the prosecution must only observe the minimal basic legal rights of the defendant and they are serious about a conviction merely because of the fact that you’re there. In many ways, a criminal defendant charged in Hamilton must actually prove their innocence instead of the court proving the case against a defendant. Remember, even when criminal charges are generally sound, a reduced charge can often be achieved with good legal counsel.

Do I need a defence lawyer for my case?

Yes you do. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees a defendant the right to a defence lawyer to defend them in a criminal case.

It has also been interpreted as conferring the right on criminal defendants to represent himself or herself in cases against them. No such right exists in a civil lawsuit. Criminal defendants might be allowed to represent themselves, but you’ll need permission from the judge who is presiding over your case.

Whether or not it’s a good idea to ask a judge to represent yourself in a criminal case is up to your own best judgment, but as lawyers who appear in the Hamilton courts it is not recommended. Typically, you should always hire a defence lawyer to work with you. Criminal convictions and record can be harsh, especially if you’re charged with an indictable offence.

Service Areas

Our law office provides legal services throughout Ontario & the GTA, including Newmarket, Burlington, Hamilton and into Muskoka.

Experienced Litigators

Our Hamilton criminal lawyers have all been recognized by services such as Google Reviews, YellowPages and LawyerRatingz.com, and many others.

We’re Dedicated To You

Our lawyers are passionate about one thing: helping our clients get the best outcome. We focus on service and results.

We’re your lawyer, we work for you.

You can trust our Hamilton criminal solicitors to guide and advise you what to do. We understand you’re relying on us to defend your character, rights and to protect your future.  When you work with us, we’ll explain our part, your part and work together.

Hamilton Criminal Court

Anyone in Hamilton who is arrested and facing criminal charges should contact a criminal lawyer to discuss your charges. We understand the how the Hamilton courthouse operates, and the “players involved”. We always represent our clients to the full extent of the law, including the willingness to take a case to trial. Criminal defence lawyers who know how to prepare a case for trial. We know how to present a strong defence in any legal situation and have a track record of proven success, helping our clients win, receive reduced charges, avoiding criminal records and licence suspensions. Let us be your criminal defence team to defend your rights and future.

Arrested for a Criminal Charge in Hamilton?

Criminal arrests are made when a police officer either has witnessed a crime or has reasonable and probable grounds to believe an offence has been committed. Once arrested, the accused may be released on a promise to appear in court or be taken by the police officer into custody for a bail hearing at the Huntsville court. The accused will be fingerprinted and photographed. The suspect will be required to answer a series of personal questions and will then be placed in a holding cell. The police must give the accused reasonable phone calls and be allowed speak to a criminal defence lawyer of their choosing or to duty counsel.

The accused will be given a court hearing within 48 hours of being placed in custody. The suspect will be allowed to meet with their lawyer before the bail hearing takes place.

When the accused is taken to the courthouse, the court will inform the judge of the crime they are being charged with, and will ask the accused to enter a plea. The accused can either tell the judge that they are guilty or not guilty. Accused persons should get legal advice from their lawyer about which plea to enter before the hearing begins. The judge will then review the case to see if the accused should be released from custody pending the trial date.

A guilty plea is an admission of guilt, and the accused will be responsible for the penalties of the crime. A plea of not guilty means the crown attorney must prove the facts of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt to the judge at trial.  Witnesses must appear on the trial date to give evidence.

At the Hamilton courthouse most criminal proceedings appear before a provincial court judge, without a jury and the judge will decide the outcome.

If after the trial the accused is found not guilty, they will be allowed to go free. Where the accused is found guilty, or if the accused pleaded guilty, a sentencing hearing will be held immediately unless deferred by the court. At sentencing, the judge listens to submissions from both the defence lawyer and the crown attorney regarding the accused, including any past criminal record and background in deciding a penalty.

Many criminal charges including impaired driving and dangerous driving have mandatory penalties like licence suspensions that the judge has no control over.

At the sentencing hearing, the judge in the Halton courts may want to hear the opinions of the accused’s friends and family, or from the victim(s) of the crime. The judge will then decide a penalty based on sentencing requirements and the evidence provided.

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Criminal Lawyer | Nicholas Charitsis
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