ADDICT WITH CRIMINAL RECORD OFFERED DIVERSION AND WITHDRAWAL OF CHARGES

R. v. S.

Mr. S. has struggled with drug and alcohol addiction for many years.  As a result, he had racked up charge after charge, all related to his addiction.  Now Mr. S. already had a criminal record.  It is rare that someone with a criminal record would be eligible for diversion, in other words a withdrawal of the charges in exchange for some up front work.  Ms. Bristow, however, was able to craft a unique proposal for the Crown to consider permitting Mr. S. to complete a diversion program.  The Crown agreed to the proposal and Mr. S. began addictions counselling.

After some time, Mr. S. unfortunately re-offended.  Often times, a Crown Attorney’s diversion offer would be off the table upon an accused person re-offending.  However, Ms. Bristow. was able to negotiate with the Crown to permit Mr. S. to continue with his counselling to prove to the Crown why he deserved another chance.  It took some time, but Mr. S. completed his up front work and then did some community service hours as part of the diversion program.  Now Mr. S. has 5 fewer charges he has to worry about on his criminal record.  Even better, he is well on the road to sobriety.  

If you have a criminal matter and would like to contact Ms. Bristow for a free consultation, please contact her by phone at 416-598-5741 or email at bristow@criminaltriallawyers.ca

Note:  Past successes do not guarantee future successes