Criminal Defence in New Westminster
Criminal Defence Lawyers in New Westminster
Being charged with a criminal offence in New Westminster can feel like the ground has shifted under you. Maybe the police called and asked you to come in, maybe you were arrested and released with conditions, or maybe you are holding a court date and a stack of paperwork you do not fully understand. Whatever the situation, a charge is not a conviction. The Crown has to prove its case, and you have the right to make it do exactly that.
We help people in New Westminster and the surrounding Lower Mainland deal with criminal charges and driving offences, from impaired driving and roadside prohibitions to assault, theft, drug and weapons allegations. Cases involving local residents are often heard at the New Westminster courthouse, which serves much of this part of the region, so we know the pace and the practical realities of how matters move through here. We look at how the evidence was gathered, whether your rights were respected, and where the Crown's case is weak.
Early advice matters. What you say to police, whether you agree to a breath test, how you handle bail conditions, and how quickly you get disclosure can all shape what happens next. The first conversation is free and confidential, and there is no pressure. You tell us what you are facing, and we tell you plainly where you stand and what your options are.
How we help in New Westminster
Impaired driving and roadside prohibitions
We handle impaired driving charges along with Immediate Roadside Prohibitions and 90-day driving bans. These often move on tight deadlines, and a review must be requested quickly, so reaching us early gives us the best chance to challenge how the stop and the breath or blood readings were handled.
Bail and release conditions
If you or a family member is being held or was released on strict conditions, we move fast to seek release or to vary terms that make daily life in New Westminster unworkable, such as no-contact orders, curfews or area restrictions that affect work and family.
Getting and reviewing disclosure
You are entitled to see the evidence against you. We obtain the Crown's disclosure, including police notes, video and breath or toxicology reports, and we go through it carefully to find gaps, charter issues and weaknesses before any decision is made.
Defending the charge at trial
When a case should be fought, we are ready to run it. The Crown must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, and we test the evidence, cross-examine witnesses and raise every available defence on your behalf.
Resolution and reducing the damage
Not every case goes to trial. Where it makes sense, we negotiate with the Crown to have charges reduced, withdrawn or resolved in a way that protects your record, your licence and your future as much as possible.
Protecting your record and your future
A conviction can affect employment, travel and immigration status. We keep those consequences in view from day one and work toward outcomes that limit the long-term impact on your life and the people who depend on you.
Common questions
I was charged in New Westminster. Do I have to go to court myself?
In many cases a lawyer can appear for you on routine dates so you do not have to attend every time, which is a relief if you are working or have family commitments. Some appearances do require you to be present. Once we know the charge and the stage your matter is at, we will tell you exactly which dates you need to attend and handle the rest with you.
The police want to talk to me but I have not been charged. Should I go in?
You have the right to speak with a lawyer before answering police questions, and it is usually wise to do that first. What you say can be used as evidence. Call us before you attend any interview so you understand your rights and do not say something that hurts you later.
I got a roadside prohibition for my licence. Is it too late to do anything?
Maybe not, but timing is critical. Reviews of a roadside prohibition must be filed within a short window, often just seven days, so the sooner you contact us the more we can do. Reach out as soon as you can and we will tell you what options remain in your situation.
Talk to us about Criminal Defence in New Westminster
No pressure and no obligation. Just a clear conversation about where you stand and what comes next.