Criminal defence
Charged with a criminal offence?
From bail to resolution or trial, Peter Basta defends adults and youth charged in the Orangeville and Brampton courts and across the surrounding area.
Charges we defend
Every charge is different, and the right approach depends on the evidence and on what matters most to you. Common matters include:
The firm does not handle driving offences, including Highway Traffic Act matters.
Bail hearings
If someone is held after an arrest, a bail hearing decides whether they are released and on what conditions. We prepare the release plan, work with any proposed sureties, and argue for release.
Assault and domestic assault
Charges from simple assault to assault causing bodily harm, including allegations between partners or family members, which often come with no-contact conditions.
Theft, fraud and possession of stolen property
Shoplifting, theft from an employer, fraud, and possession charges, including cases that may be suitable for diversion.
Drug charges
Possession, possession for the purpose of trafficking, and trafficking charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
Weapons charges
Possession of a weapon, carrying a concealed weapon, and other weapons-related offences.
Failing to comply with release conditions
Charges for breaching bail, probation or undertaking conditions. These can affect your other charges and your chances of release in the future.
Mischief and threats
Charges for damaging property and for uttering threats, including threats made online or by text message.
Youth criminal justice matters
Charges against young people aged 12 to 17, dealt with under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which has its own rules on privacy, sentencing and records.
Peace bonds
A court order requiring a person to keep the peace and follow conditions, without a criminal conviction. We act for people who have been asked to enter one.
The process
What happens after a charge
Release or bail
You are released by police or held for a bail hearing. Your release conditions apply until the case ends.
Disclosure
The Crown provides the evidence against you. We review it closely for weaknesses and Charter issues.
Pre-trial
We meet with the Crown and a judge to narrow the issues and explore whether the charges can be withdrawn or resolved.
Resolution or trial
If the case does not resolve on acceptable terms, we prepare and defend it at trial.
Legal Aid certificates
If you cannot afford a lawyer, you may qualify for a Legal Aid Ontario certificate. Basta Law accepts certificates for criminal matters. If you already have one, or are applying, tell us when you call.
Youth matters
Young people charged with offences are dealt with under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which has its own rules on privacy, sentencing and records. Parents are welcome to make the first call.
Next step
Have a court date coming up?
Call or send a short consultation request. We will check for conflicts and get back to you to arrange a time.