Toronto, Ontario, Canada
I assist senior counsel with Legal Aid Ontario designated extremely serious matters ("ESMs") including homicide, attempt murder, gun and drug charges. Additionally, I run bail hearings, review disclosure, and assist with day-to-day management of a busy criminal defence practice.
I manage a caseload of privately retained criminal and tribunal matters, working closely with clients in and out of custody. I assist the Principal Lawyer with day-to-day firm operations and business expansion.
Provided support to senior counsel and associates on complex criminal defence matters, including serious offences (homicide, attempted murder, firearms, drug and gun trafficking). Attended and made submissions at proceedings, including a preliminary hearing. Conducted disclosure review and analysis, coordinated set-date appearances in the OCJ and SCJ, oversaw Legal Aid certificate and billing administration, and managed communication with clients in and out of custody. Short-term contract position while full-time staff is away.
Supported solo practitioners with administrative tasks in their criminal practices, including set-date appearances, adjournments/to-be-spoken to’s, client communication, disclosure review, and other work as assigned.
Worked closely with a sole criminal defence practitioner, managing a wide range of responsibilities across dozens of files. Supported survivors of gender-based violence, assisting complainants counsel in s.276/s.278 disclosure hearings. Appeared at set-date, bail hearings, judicial pre-trials, and preliminary inquiries; prepared written advocacy and delivered bail submissions resulting in successful releases.