{"id":792,"date":"2025-02-26T19:59:58","date_gmt":"2025-02-27T02:59:58","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.oykhmancriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/?page_id=792"},"modified":"2026-08-11T16:33:22","modified_gmt":"2026-08-11T23:33:22","slug":"edmonton-assault-lawyer","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/edmonton-assault-lawyer\/","title":{"rendered":"Assault Lawyer Edmonton"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#e2e2e2;border-style:solid;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"max-width:calc( 1440px + 50px );margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\"><p><b>Assault offences in the federal Criminal Code range from simple assault, usually charged as a summary offence, to very serious indictable crimes:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Assault (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-266.html\">Criminal Code Section 266<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li>Assault with a weapon (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-267.html\">Section 267(a)<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Assault causing bodily harm (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-267.html\">Section 267(b)<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Aggravated assault (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-268.html\">Section 268<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li>Assaulting a peace officer (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-270.html\">Criminal Code Section 270<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li>Attempted murder (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-239.html\">Section 239<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Choking (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-267.html\">Section 267(c)<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/C-46\/section-246.html\">Section 246<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Kidnapping (<a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/c-46\/section-279.html\">Section 279 (1)<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The team at Strategic Criminal Defence will work tirelessly to secure your release and build your defence. In doing so, we will try to prevent the severe consequences of a conviction.<\/p>\n<p><b>Having served Edmonton for a decade as part of a team that has defended over 10,000 cases across Canada, we have:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Earned over 140 5-star Google reviews.<\/li>\n<li>Won the Consumer Choice Award (2025, 2026).<\/li>\n<li>Achieved a BBB A+ rating.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-0 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:var(--awb-color8);padding: 40px 50px 40px 50px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-2\" style=\"text-align:center;font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;color:var(--awb-color1);\"><h3><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"> for a free, no-obligation consultation.<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 40px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-1 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#f9f9f9;padding: 40px 50px 40px 50px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-3\" style=\"font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;\"><h2>4 immediate steps after an assault charge<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><b>Say nothing<\/b>: Immediately invoke your right to silence, without trying to explain yourself to the police.<\/li>\n<li><b>Contact an Edmonton assault lawyer ASAP<\/b>: Ideally, before speaking to anyone about the incident.<\/li>\n<li><b>Do not contact the complainant or any witnesses<\/b>: Do not apologize or try to clarify what happened.<\/li>\n<li><b>Comply strictly with all bail conditions<\/b>: E.g., no-contact orders, reporting to police, and no-go areas.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 40px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-4\"><h2><b>Testimonials<\/b><\/h2>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-2 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#000000;padding: 48px 60px 40px 60px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-5 expandable-text\" style=\"color:#ffffff;margin-right:20px;\"><p><b>\u201cOne of the better lawyers in Edmonton\u201d<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u201cI had the opportunity to work with Ahmed Haroon to handle a legal matter for my family, and right off the bat, I found him to be extremely professional, respectful, and compassionate throughout the process. He was patient, understanding, and always communicated clearly.<br \/>\nWhat impressed me most was how kind and empathetic he was, even during stressful situations. He carries himself with integrity and professionalism, and I believe he is one of the better lawyers in Edmonton.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"font-size:16px;letter-spacing:-0.53px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#c22127;margin-top:15px;\"><p><b>K.M.<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 48px !important;padding-right : 60px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 60px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 30px !important;padding-right : 30px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 30px !important;padding-left : 30px !important;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-3 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#000000;padding: 48px 60px 40px 60px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-7 expandable-text\" style=\"color:#ffffff;margin-right:20px;\"><p><b>\u201cCharges were dropped\u201d<\/b><\/p>\n<p>\u201cI called Ahmed before taking a plea deal under the advice of a previous lawyer. Ahmed gave me advice on how to proceed and I retained him the next day. He took his time and became familiar with my case. He found many things wrong with the prosecution\u2019s case against me, and made sure I was aware of everything and walked me through the steps better than other lawyers I\u2019ve previously dealt with. After being prepared for a trial, my charges were dropped thanks to Mr. Haroon. I could not have asked for anyone better for legal representation!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-8 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"font-size:16px;letter-spacing:-0.53px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#c22127;margin-top:15px;\"><p><b>Y.D.<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 48px !important;padding-right : 60px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 60px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 30px !important;padding-right : 30px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 30px !important;padding-left : 30px !important;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-9\"><h2>What is assault, and how could charges impact your future?<\/h2>\n<p>Assault, in its most basic sense, is the intentional application of force to another person without their consent or threats, by acts or gestures, to apply force to another person.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-4 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#000000;padding: 48px 60px 40px 60px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-10 expandable-text\" style=\"color:#ffffff;margin-right:20px;\"><p>\u201cExamples of assault include a punch, kick, shove, or push. Even a mere threat of striking someone can constitute an assault.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-11 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"font-size:16px;letter-spacing:-0.53px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#c22127;margin-top:15px;\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/michael-oykhman\/\">Michael Oykhman<\/a>, Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 48px !important;padding-right : 60px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 60px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 30px !important;padding-right : 30px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 30px !important;padding-left : 30px !important;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-12\"><p><b>The most serious versions of the offence include:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Assault using a weapon.<\/li>\n<li>Assault causing bodily harm.<\/li>\n<li>Assault against a peace officer.<\/li>\n<li>Assault causing wounding, maiming, disfigurement, or endangerment to life (aggravated assault).<\/li>\n<li>Trying to kill someone.<\/li>\n<li>Choking a person to restrain them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Assault crimes are among the most common to come before the Edmonton courts. Our team has defended hundreds of assault charges. In every case, the main priority is to prevent serious penalties and a criminal record.<\/p>\n<p>Assault offences carry different penalties based on severity and how they are prosecuted. <b>\u00a0Here\u2019s an overview of the maximum penalties for the main types of assault offences in Edmonton:<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><style>\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\n  .scd-table thead { display: none; }\n  .scd-table tr { display: block; margin-bottom: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; }\n  .scd-table td { display: block; padding: 10px 14px; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left !important; }\n  .scd-table td:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .scd-table td::before { content: attr(data-label); display: block; font-weight: bold; color: #c12127; font-size: 12px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-bottom: 4px; }\n}\n<\/style>\n<table class=\"scd-table\" style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; table-layout: fixed;\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 35%; text-align: center;\">OFFENCE<\/th>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 15%; text-align: center;\">TYPE<\/th>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 50%; text-align: center;\">MAXIMUM PENALTY<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Assault (s.266)<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Type\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Hybrid<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Penalty\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\"><b>Summary:<\/b> 2 years less a day<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\"><b>Indictment:<\/b> 5 years<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm (s. 267)<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Type\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Hybrid<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Penalty\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\"><b>Summary:<\/b> 2 years less a day<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\"><b>Indictment:<\/b> 10 years<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Aggravated assault (s. 268)<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Type\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Indictable<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Penalty\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">14 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Assaulting a peace officer (s. 270)<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Type\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Hybrid<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Penalty\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\"><b>Summary:<\/b> 18 months<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\"><b>Indictment:<\/b> 5 years<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Attempted murder (s. 239)<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Type\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Indictable<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Penalty\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">Life imprisonment<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\"><b>Minimum:<\/b> 4 years (firearm); 5\u20137 years (restricted\/prohibited firearm or criminal organization)<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Choking to overcome resistance (s. 246)<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Type\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Indictable<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Penalty\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Life imprisonment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Offence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Kidnapping (s. 279(1))<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Type\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\">Indictable<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Maximum Penalty\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\"><p style=\"margin: 0 0 8px 0;\">Life imprisonment<\/p><p style=\"margin: 0;\"><b>Minimum:<\/b> 4 years (firearm); 5\u20137 years (restricted\/prohibited firearm or criminal organization); 5 years (victim under 16)<\/p><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-13\" style=\"margin-top:25px;\"><p>Some assault offences are hybrid (prosecutable by summary or indictment), while others are straight indictable.<\/p>\n<p><b>Sentences are determined by the court based on:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The specific facts.<\/li>\n<li>The offender&#8217;s record.<\/li>\n<li>Other sentencing principles.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Maximum penalties are not routinely imposed, and we will work to prevent them if you are convicted.<\/p>\n<p>However, the criminal penalties are just the start.<\/p>\n<p><b>Our focus is on working to minimize the risk of a criminal conviction because a criminal record can impact key areas of your life, such as:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Employment.<\/li>\n<li>Professional licensing.<\/li>\n<li>Travel (including to the United States).<\/li>\n<li>Immigration status.<\/li>\n<li>Housing.<\/li>\n<li>Education.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-5 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#000000;padding: 48px 60px 40px 60px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-14 expandable-text\" style=\"color:#ffffff;margin-right:20px;\"><p>\u201cThe worst-case scenario for an assault charge is that the individual is convicted of assault, gets a criminal record, and is sentenced to a harsher penalty than they might warrant, partly because the right information is not put in front of the judge. The best-case scenario is a withdrawn charge or a diversion program that results in no criminal record.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-15 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"font-size:16px;letter-spacing:-0.53px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#c22127;margin-top:15px;\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/michael-oykhman\/\">Michael Oykhman<\/a>, Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-5{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 48px !important;padding-right : 60px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 60px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-5{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 30px !important;padding-right : 30px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 30px !important;padding-left : 30px !important;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-5{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-16\"><h2>Will you be released after an assault charge?<\/h2>\n<p>Our first critical involvement in your assault case may be to help secure your release from custody.<\/p>\n<p><b>Whether you\u2019ll be released usually depends on:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The seriousness of the alleged assault.<\/li>\n<li>Your criminal record.<\/li>\n<li>Whether you are considered a flight risk or a danger to the public.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Where will you be held after arrest?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>You may not be held after being charged. <b>For non-serious, simple assaults, you could be released on:<\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><b>An appearance notice<\/b>, with an obligation to attend court on a specific date, or<\/li>\n<li><b>An undertaking<\/b>, which releases you with a set of conditions, such as no contact with the complainant.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>For more serious charges or if you have prior convictions, you may be detained and processed at the detachment where you were arrested or transferred to the <b>Edmonton Police Service&#8217;s Downtown Division<\/b> at 9620 103A Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB, T5H 0H7.<\/p>\n<p>You may be held for a short period at the <b>Edmonton Remand Centre<\/b>, located at 18415 127 Street NW, Edmonton.<\/p>\n<p>Your lawyer can either meet you there or consult with you by video about your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/bail-hearing\/\">bail hearing<\/a> and potential release. In Edmonton, the bail hearing office is located at the courthouse across from City Hall, at the West QB Entrance, but most bail hearings are by video conference.<\/p>\n<p>At your bail hearing, we will make submissions for your release. <b>While we will argue for the least restrictive conditions possible, you should expect at least the following bail conditions if you are released:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Strictly no contact with the alleged victim.<\/li>\n<li>A \u2019stay away\u2019 order from certain locations.<\/li>\n<li>A weapons prohibition.<\/li>\n<li>Regular reporting to the Edmonton police.<\/li>\n<li>Alcohol or drug-related conditions.<\/li>\n<li>Possible curfew or house arrest for more serious offences.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>One possible complication is the \u2018reverse onus\u2019 requirement. This requires us to prove why you should be released, rather than the prosecution proving why you should be held in detention (as is standard).<\/p>\n<p>Under proposed changes to the bail laws from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/csj-sjc\/pl\/c14\/index.html\">Bail and Sentencing Reform Act (Bill C-14)<\/a>, we may need to take extra steps for your release if you are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A repeat offender.<\/li>\n<li>Charged with choking.<\/li>\n<li>Accused of using a weapon.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you were already on bail, or the assault charge involves a firearm, the reverse onus is already law under <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/C-46\/section-515.html\">s.515(6) of the Criminal Code<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-17\"><h2>What\u2019s the first court appearance following an assault charge?<\/h2>\n<p>Your \u2018first appearance\u2019 will be when your lawyer requests the Crown\u2019s disclosure package containing all the evidence against you, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Police reports.<\/li>\n<li>Surveillance footage.<\/li>\n<li>Medical records.<\/li>\n<li>Forensic evidence, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>After receiving this, we will:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Review the evidence <\/b>for procedural weaknesses and errors that can form the foundation of your defence.<\/li>\n<li><b>Explore resolution options with the Crown, <\/b>which may provide an opportunity to settle the case without a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/trial-lawyers\/\">criminal trial<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>What are the main pre-trial resolutions for assault?<\/h3>\n<p>We will negotiate directly with the prosecution to seek a withdrawal, reduction of the charge, or other pre-trial resolution.<\/p>\n<p><b>Depending on the seriousness of the charge, we will try to persuade the Crown to approve:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Charge withdrawal, <\/b>if the evidence is particularly weak, the incident was minor, or the complainant does not wish to proceed.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/peace-bond\/\"><b>Peace bond (s. 810)<\/b><\/a> if you agree to keep the peace and abide by certain conditions for a fixed period (no criminal conviction results).<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/alternative-measures-program\/\"><b>Alternative Measures Program<\/b><\/a> for less serious, first-time offences, whereby you complete community service or counselling in exchange for a withdrawn charge.<\/li>\n<li><b>Plea to a lesser charge<\/b> if the evidence supporting the charge is strong.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/edmonton\/criminal-discharge\/\"><b>Conditional discharge<\/b><\/a>, which may be available for less serious offences if you plead guilty (no criminal conviction if you complete probation).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The availability of options depends on the specific facts of your case, the strength of the Crown&#8217;s evidence, your prior record, and the position of the complainant.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-18\"><h2>What are the main defences for assault?<\/h2>\n<p>An assault conviction requires the Crown to prove<b> t<\/b>he physical act (actus reus) beyond a reasonable doubt, while proof of criminal intent (mens rea) is required in many forms of assault.<\/p>\n<p>Your lawyer will argue a defence based on the specific assault charge and the precise circumstances of your case. <b>Here\u2019s an overview of the standard defences available for assault:<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div><style>\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\n  .scd-table thead { display: none; }\n  .scd-table tr { display: block; margin-bottom: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; }\n  .scd-table td { display: block; padding: 10px 14px; border: none; border-bottom: 1px solid #dddddd; text-align: left !important; }\n  .scd-table td:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .scd-table td::before { content: attr(data-label); display: block; font-weight: bold; color: #c12127; font-size: 12px; text-transform: uppercase; margin-bottom: 4px; }\n}\n<\/style>\n<table class=\"scd-table\" style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; table-layout: fixed;\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 22%; text-align: center;\">DEFENCE<\/th>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 40%; text-align: center;\">WHAT MUST BE SHOWN<\/th>\n<th style=\"background-color: #c12127; color: #ffffff; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold; width: 38%; text-align: center;\">BEST APPLIED WHEN<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Self-defence (s. 34)<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The accused believed force was being used or threatened against them, and their response was reasonable in the circumstances.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The complainant was the aggressor or the accused genuinely feared imminent harm.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Defence of others (s. 34)<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The accused believed another person was being threatened or attacked and used reasonable force to protect them.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">A third party was at risk, and the accused intervened to prevent harm.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Accident\/absence of intent<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The physical contact was unintentional, and the accused had no intent to apply force.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">A collision, involuntary movement, or other unintended contact caused the alleged injury.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Consent<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The complainant consented to the level of force applied (rarely successful in assault defences).<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Contact sports, consensual fights, or physical activity where the complainant agreed to a degree of contact.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Mistaken identity<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The accused was not the person who committed the assault.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Eyewitness reliability is questionable, lighting or visibility was poor, or there is a lack of forensic evidence linking the accused to the incident.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Lawful authority<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The force used was legally justified in the circumstances.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Police officers or others acting under lawful authority.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>Charter violations<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Evidence was obtained through an unlawful search, arrest without reasonable grounds, or a failure to inform the accused of their right to counsel.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Improper police conduct when gathering evidence or effecting the arrest (the court may exclude the evidence under s. 24(2)).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td data-label=\"Defence\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;\"><b>No reasonable apprehension of force<\/b><\/td>\n<td data-label=\"What Must Be Shown\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">The complainant did not have reasonable grounds to believe force was about to be applied.<\/td>\n<td data-label=\"Best Applied When\" style=\"padding: 16px; border: 1px solid #dddddd; vertical-align: top; text-align: left;\">Threats were made when the complainant was unaware or the act did not constitute a genuine threat.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-19\"><h2>FAQs<\/h2>\n<\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">#accordion-792-1 .fusion-panel:hover, #accordion-792-1 .fusion-panel.hover{ background-color: #f4f5f7 } #accordion-792-1 .fusion-panel { border-color:var(--awb-color2); border-width:0px; background-color:var(--awb-color2); }.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box{ color: #c22127;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box:before{ font-size: 16px; width: 16px;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1.fusion-toggle-icon-right .fusion-toggle-heading{ margin-right: 34px;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-title a{font-size:21px;color:#c22127;font-family:\"Lexend\";font-weight:700;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .toggle-content{font-size:17px;color:#000000;font-family:\"Lexend\";font-weight:300;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-title a:not(.active):hover, #accordion-792-1 .fusion-toggle-boxed-mode:hover .panel-title a { color: #c22127;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .fusion-toggle-boxed-mode:hover .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box{ color: #c22127;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1.fusion-toggle-icon-unboxed .fusion-panel .panel-title a:not(.active):hover .fa-fusion-box{ color: #c22127 !important;}<\/style><div class=\"accordian fusion-accordian\"><div class=\"panel-group fusion-toggle-icon-right fusion-toggle-icon-unboxed\" id=\"accordion-792-1\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-6f7179a8fc83e63cc .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-6f7179a8fc83e63cc .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-6f7179a8fc83e63cc fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"6f7179a8fc83e63cc\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-792-1\" data-target=\"#6f7179a8fc83e63cc\" href=\"#6f7179a8fc83e63cc\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">I live outside Edmonton. Can you still defend my assault charges?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"6f7179a8fc83e63cc\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Yes, we have offices in Calgary and Lethbridge, and can represent you wherever you are in Alberta. Our lawyers have extensive experience with assault cases, tailoring our strategy depending on the prosecutor and judge who handle your case.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-db62fb0247667dc90 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-db62fb0247667dc90 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-db62fb0247667dc90 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"db62fb0247667dc90\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-792-1\" data-target=\"#db62fb0247667dc90\" href=\"#db62fb0247667dc90\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">Will I go to jail for assault?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"db62fb0247667dc90\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Technically, you can go to jail for up to two years less a day for a summary offence. Simple assault cases involving first-time offenders may not result in incarceration, but this depends on the specific facts, Crown evidence, the judge\u2019s approach, and other factors. We cannot predict outcomes, but we will present strong mitigation arguments.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-b8e9a208e1b96aab0 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-b8e9a208e1b96aab0 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-b8e9a208e1b96aab0 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"b8e9a208e1b96aab0\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-792-1\" data-target=\"#b8e9a208e1b96aab0\" href=\"#b8e9a208e1b96aab0\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">Why is choking treated as a separate offence to assault?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"b8e9a208e1b96aab0\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p><b>Choking is included twice in the Criminal Code:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Under Section 267(c): Choking, suffocating, or strangling is included as a subsection with other serious assault crimes (assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm).<\/li>\n<li>Under its own dedicated Section 246: When choking is done to enable or assist another indictable offence, such as sexual assault, it is a more serious offence than assault. It carries a maximum of life imprisonment regardless of whether any injury results.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-9fcf7f68866a96de6 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-9fcf7f68866a96de6 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-9fcf7f68866a96de6 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"9fcf7f68866a96de6\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-792-1\" data-target=\"#9fcf7f68866a96de6\" href=\"#9fcf7f68866a96de6\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">Is attempted murder more serious than manslaughter?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"9fcf7f68866a96de6\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Generally, yes. Attempted murder requires proof of a specific intent to kill, which courts treat as one of the most culpable mental states in criminal law. Manslaughter, while it results in death, does not require intent to kill and can arise from a lesser degree of fault.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-57c033c6d23cf41c5 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-57c033c6d23cf41c5 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-57c033c6d23cf41c5 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"57c033c6d23cf41c5\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-792-1\" data-target=\"#57c033c6d23cf41c5\" href=\"#57c033c6d23cf41c5\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">Is kidnapping considered a form of assault?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"57c033c6d23cf41c5\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Kidnapping is a separate offence (under s. 279) concerned with unlawful confinement and deprivation of liberty rather than physical force. However, the two charges frequently arise together in the same incident, and kidnapping carries the same maximum penalty as the most serious assault offences: life imprisonment.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-3d054140c986ed081 .panel-title a{}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-792-1 .panel-3d054140c986ed081 .toggle-content{}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default panel-3d054140c986ed081 fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"3d054140c986ed081\" role=\"button\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-792-1\" data-target=\"#3d054140c986ed081\" href=\"#3d054140c986ed081\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">Why am I being charged with assault when the complainant has agreed to drop the charges?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"3d054140c986ed081\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Once a complainant makes an allegation of assault to the police, the decision to move forward with the prosecution is no longer in the complainant\u2019s hands. The decision rests with the Crown Prosecutor, and while a withdrawn complaint makes it tougher to prove, cases can still proceed and result in a conviction. The complainant can even be subpoenaed by the Crown and compelled by law to testify against the defendant.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-20\"><h2>Get the help you need with an assault charge in Edmonton<\/h2>\n<p>Even if you haven\u2019t yet been charged, contacting a Strategic Criminal Defence lawyer early can make a critical difference.<\/p>\n<p>If Edmonton Police are investigating an alleged assault, we can advise you on how to protect yourself before charges are laid, including whether to speak to police and what to expect next.<\/p>\n<p><b>If you\u2019ve already been charged with assault, we will:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Review the specific facts of your case.<\/li>\n<li>Assess the strength of the Crown&#8217;s evidence.<\/li>\n<li>Build a defence strategy tailored to your charge.<\/li>\n<li>Prepare for trial and fight the charge if a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>After a decade of representing clients in Edmonton, Strategic Criminal Defence lawyers understand how local courts approach these cases. Our experience can help protect your future.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-6 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:var(--awb-color8);padding: 40px 50px 40px 50px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-21\" style=\"text-align:center;font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;color:var(--awb-color1);\"><h3><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/contact\/\">Contact us<\/a><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"> for a free, no-obligation consultation.<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-6{width:100% !important;margin-top : 20px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 40px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 40px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-6{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-6{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 50px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-50px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-50px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-7 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column cases grey-box\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-color:#f9f9f9;padding: 25px 50px 25px 50px;\"><div ><style>.fusion-imageframe.imageframe-1{ margin-bottom : 25px;}<\/style><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-1 hover-type-none\" style=\"border-radius:8px;max-width:100px;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/michael-oykhman-thumb.jpg\" alt class=\"img-responsive\"\/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-22\" style=\"font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;\"><p><strong>Verified By: Michael Oykhman, Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-1{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0px!important;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-title.fusion-title-1{margin-top:10px!important; margin-right:0px!important;margin-bottom:10px!important; margin-left:0px!important;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-1 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:15px;margin-left:0px;\"><div class=\"title-heading-left title-heading-tag fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"margin:0;--fontSize:18;line-height:1.618;\">Last Modified: August 11, 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-23\" style=\"font-size:18px;line-height:1.6;letter-spacing:-0.3px;\"><p>Michael Oykhman is a senior criminal defence lawyer and the founder of Strategic Criminal Defence, a leading firm with offices across Western Canada and Ontario. With nearly 20 years of legal experience, he has appeared at all levels of court in Alberta, including the Supreme Court of Canada, and has successfully defended thousands of clients.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Experience<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Proven Results:<\/strong> Successfully managed over 10,000 criminal cases, experience in complex matters such as impaired driving, domestic violence, and sexual assault.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Strategic Problem Solver:<\/strong> Trained as a trial lawyer but recognized for his experience in alternative resolution strategies, often securing the best outcomes for clients without a case ever going to trial.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Multi-Jurisdictional Authority:<\/strong> Licensed to practice law in Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Education &amp; Academic Leadership<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Education:<\/strong> Holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Calgary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Academic Distinctions:<\/strong> Recipient of the Crown Association Prize (top grade in criminal law) and was the first-ever finalist for the University of Calgary at the Gale Cup Moot.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Teaching &amp; Mentorship:<\/strong> Currently serves as the Advising Lawyer for Student Legal Assistance and is a sessional instructor at the University of Calgary Faculty of Law, teaching Advanced Criminal\/Constitutional Appellate Advocacy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Credentials &amp; Recognition<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Top-Rated Advocacy:<\/strong> An 8-time recipient of the Three Best Rated\u00ae Top Criminal Defence Lawyer of the Year award in Calgary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Professional Memberships:<\/strong> Active member of the Criminal Trial Lawyers Association (CTLA) and the Criminal Defence Lawyers Association (CDLA) of Calgary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Connect with Michael:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strategiccriminaldefence.com\/michael-oykhman\/\">Bio<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/linkedin.com\/in\/michael-oykhman-90002335?originalSubdomain=ca\">LinkedIn<\/a> | <strong>Firm Office:<\/strong> (403) 719-6410<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-7{width:100% !important;margin-top : 25px;margin-bottom : 25px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 25px !important;padding-right : 50px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 25px !important;padding-left : 50px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-7{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-7{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 30px;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 25px;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 25px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 25px;margin-left : 25px;}}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-1{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Being charged with assault in Edmonton, whether simple assault or a more serious offence, such as choking or attempted murder, requires rapid legal assistance from an experienced criminal defence lawyer to protect your future.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":51332,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-792","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Assault Lawyers Edmonton | Strategic Criminal Defence<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"If you have been charged with Assault in Edmonton, contact our experienced and dedicated legal team. 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