Vancouver Criminal Defence Lawyer

Quasi-Criminal Offences
Defended by Martin Peters, Vancouver Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Peters has a great deal of experience in defending quasi-criminal charges brought against corporations or individuals.

Charges for quasi-criminal charges are laid under federal or provincial statutes other than the criminal code. They are prosecuted in the same manner as a criminal case. Examples include federal offences such as violations of the Competition Act or Fisheries Act or provincial offences commenced pursuant to statutes which regulate occupational health and safety or environmental protection.

The consequences of a conviction for a quasi-criminal offence can be as serious as a conviction for a criminal charge: very large fines and, in some cases prison terms for individuals convicted.

In many instances, quasi-criminal offences arise in the context of a business activity. Those charged with such offences in relation to an ongoing business activity (where there is a risk that the offence may occur more than once) should be aware that the sentencing provisions under many statutes dramatically increase the size of potential fines for subsequent offences. This can increase the importance of defending the charge to avoid a first conviction.