Assault
Assault is an offence that involves the intentional application of force to another person without their consent, or the threat or attempt to apply force.
What Is Considered Assault?
Under Canadian criminal law, assault is broader than many people assume. A person can be charged if they:
Intentionally apply force to another person without consent
Attempt or threaten to apply force, causing the other person to reasonably believe they have the present ability to carry it out
Accost or impede another person while openly carrying a weapon
The force does not need to cause injury. Even minor physical contact, such as pushing, grabbing, or striking, can meet the legal definition if it was intentional and without consent.
The Crown must generally prove:
The application of force was intentional
The contact was without the other person’s consent
The act was not legally justified, such as through lawful self-defence
Common Situations Where Charges Arise
Assault charges frequently arise in situations such as:
Bar or nightclub altercations
Arguments between acquaintances, coworkers, or strangers
Road rage incidents
Physical disputes at public events
Situations involving alcohol or heightened emotions
Our Process
01 Free Consultation
Your first step is a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
During this conversation, you will:
Share your side of the story
Gain clarity on the charge and what it means
Learn about possible consequences
Understand your legal options moving forward
Early legal advice can significantly impact the direction of your case. This initial consultation is about providing clarity, answering your questions, and helping you make informed decisions.
02 Understanding & Strategy
Every case has more than one side. Criminal allegations often arise in complex, emotionally charged, or high-pressure situations.
At this stage, Kandola Law takes the time to:
Carefully review the evidence and disclosure
Listen closely to your version of events
Understand the surrounding circumstances
Identify legal strengths, risks, and strategic opportunities
Building a strong defence requires more than reviewing police reports. It requires understanding the full context so that a thoughtful and informed strategy can be developed.
03 Resolution & Results
Once a strategy is established, Kandola Law works to pursue the best possible outcome based on the facts and the evidence.
This may involve:
Negotiating with the Crown for early resolution
Exploring alternative measures where appropriate
Filing legal applications
Preparing for and conducting a trial
While no lawyer can guarantee a specific result, Kandola Law is committed to thorough preparation, strategic advocacy, and protecting your rights at every stage of the process.
The focus is always on minimizing consequences and safeguarding your future.
Need Legal Help? Let’s Talk.
Your case matters, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us to schedule a consultation—no obligations—just clear, professional advice when you need it most.
Advocacy /ad·vo·ca·cy/ˈadvəkəsē