Facing criminal charges can be one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. The outcome of your case could involve a criminal record, but also have consequences on your career, family, travel and future, it is important to have the right legal representation. An experienced Ontario criminal defence lawyer, Michelle Johal specialises in defending people accused of a range of criminal charges.
Michelle Johal has a wealth of experience with cases involving criminal law and has appeared in various courts throughout Ontario and is able to offer clients knowledgeable representation and an understanding of what to expect during the process.
1. Extensive Experience in Criminal Law
Probably one of the most crucial factors to look at when hiring a criminal defence lawyer is experience. Since 2005, Michelle Johal has been exclusively practising criminal law. For around seven years prior to starting her own practice in 2011, she was employed at a highly active criminal law firm in Scarborough.
During this period, she became experienced in dealing with numerous criminal matters and at various levels of court in Ontario. She has consistently represented individuals charged with criminal offences.
This intense focus means that clients can receive the service of a criminal lawyer who is familiar with the complexities and pressures of criminal proceedings.
2. A Practice Focused Exclusively on Criminal Defence
Criminal law is a niche field and involves a great deal of information on legislation, court procedure, evidence, and defence strategies. Michelle Johal does not practice in multiple disciplines of law, but instead practices exclusively in criminal law.
She handles driving matters, domestic assault cases, drug, theft and fraud offences, weapons offences, sexual assault matters, youth court cases, administration of justice offences, and a range of other cases involving driving offences.
This niche service can be especially helpful where a Client requires a lawyer with a long history in dealing with criminal courts and criminal defence matters.
3. Experience at Different Levels of Court
The nature and severity of the charges may mean criminal cases go to and through various courts and steps. Throughout her career, Michelle Johal has litigated at all levels of court in Ontario.
This experience can enable clients to be aware that their case is being managed by a person who understands the Ontario criminal system.
From initial appearance through to a bail hearing, dealings with the Crown and a trial, having legal representation can make things much easier to manage.
4. Personalized Attention to Every Case
All criminal allegations are unique. The facts about a defendant, the evidence in the case, the crime charged and the possible penalties can be very different.
So the defence should not be a formula; it needs to be robust. Michelle Johal’s practice focuses on the unique set of facts of each client’s case and a conversation about the legal options available.
According to her firm, clients do not have their cases exclusively handled by a junior lawyer, but rather by Michelle.
This level of involvement can help clients feel more at ease by having an experienced attorney in their case.
5. Help Understanding Your Legal Options
Criminal cases can be complicated, particularly for the first-time offender. Legal jargon, timelines, disclosure, bail terms, Crown dictates and possible outcomes can get very confusing very quickly.
A criminal defence lawyer can clarify the meaning of the allegations and assist an accused person to understand their options.
During the consultation, Michelle Johal will review the allegations, discuss the situation, and talk with you about any options, including options for representation and fees.
This information ahead of time can assist clients to make better choices about their case.
6. Representation for a Wide Range of Criminal Charges
When it comes to criminal defence lawyers in Ontario, some individuals could face completely different charges. Michelle Johal is a trial lawyer who works for clients in a variety of criminal case types.
Her practice areas include criminal driving offences, domestic assault, drug offences, theft and fraud, weapons offences, sexual assault allegations, youth court cases, bail hearings, break and enter offences and administration of justice offences.
This wide criminal law experience provides potential clients the opportunity to have a consultation and see if her practice is the right fit for them.
7. Commitment to Continuing Legal Education
Criminal law is an evolving body of law, as laws, court rulings and legal proceedings evolve. Keeping up with the latest in the law is essential to a criminal lawyer’s career.
Michelle Johal has attended continuing legal education courses and has presented at events organised by the Law Society of Ontario, Ontario Bar Association, Criminal Lawyers’ Association, and the National Judicial Institute. She has also taught in the Trial Advocacy course at Osgoode Hall Law School.
This involvement demonstrates an ongoing connection with legal education and professional development.
8. Experience Representing Youth
When young people are accused of committing a criminal offence, concerns may extend beyond the legal process. They may also have an impact on their education, family life, future and personal development.
Specifically, Michelle Johal has identified youth cases as an area of interest in her criminal practice, and represents individuals who are being charged under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
This is because, when a youth case is under review, there are specific factors to take into account and talking to a lawyer who is aware about them can help benefit families.
9. Serving Clients Across Ontario Communities
Michelle Johal works with clients throughout various communities in the Greater Toronto Area and in Ontario. Her address is listed in Brampton, Mississauga, Newmarket and Scarborough.
It’s helpful for anyone seeking an experienced criminal defence lawyer in their courthouse and area.
The firm also offers consultations to individuals who are facing criminal charges and wish to talk with someone before making a decision.
11. Professional Recognition and Legal Involvement
In addition to her private practice, Michelle Johal has been involved in many committees within the legal community. She has been a leader in the Criminal Lawyers’ Association and has attended legal education conferences and professional events.
She has also been sought by Canadian media outlets to provide commentary on criminal-law issues. This professional involvement is part of her ongoing involvement in the criminal-law community.
Conclusion
When the future, family life, reputation, and employment are on the line, and freedom hangs in the balance, it is important to choose a criminal defence lawyer. Michelle Johal has an extensive background in criminal law, criminal practice that deals only with criminal-related matters, experience in the courts throughout Ontario, and a wide variety of criminal defence services.
Her experience in criminal defence, her dedication to legal education, and her hands-on experience of dealing with the cases of her clients make her a candidate worth considering if you’re searching for criminal defence representation in Ontario. Once charged with a crime, people should obtain professional legal counsel at the earliest opportunity to help them grasp their rights and responsibilities and what is at their disposal.
When looking at the various criminal defence lawyers in Ontario, it can also be beneficial to read about professionals like Graham Zoppi and see which lawyer’s experience and approach would be a better fit for their case.