Context Matters
Words must be considered in their full circumstances.
Harassment & Threats Defence
Allegations of threats or harassment often arise from difficult relationships, workplace conflict or online communications, and can escalate quickly into criminal proceedings.
JT Defence Law represents clients charged with criminal harassment, uttering threats, harassing communications and related offences in Toronto and across Ontario.
Schedule a Confidential ConsultationRelease conditions in these cases often prohibit any contact with the complainant, including online, and may restrict where you can go.
These cases frequently turn on context: the words used, the relationship between the people involved, and how the communications would be understood by a reasonable person. Text messages, social media posts and call logs are often central evidence, and they must be read in full and in context.
Words must be considered in their full circumstances.
Messages, posts and logs are often key to the case.
Conditions can affect family, work and social life.
Peace bonds may be available in appropriate cases.
What We Do
We review the full record of communications, not just the excerpts the Crown relies on, and examine whether the elements of the offence can actually be proven.
We advise on release conditions and, where appropriate, explore resolutions such as a peace bond, while preparing a full defence if the case proceeds to trial.
Reviewing complete message histories and relationships.
Testing whether the required mental element is proven.
Seeking workable conditions while the case proceeds.
Exploring alternatives where appropriate.
Allegations We Defend
We defend clients facing a range of interpersonal allegations under the Criminal Code.
Our Approach
We review the charge, the relationship involved and your release conditions.
We analyze the full record of messages and context the court will consider.
We pursue an appropriate resolution or defend you at trial.
Our Goal: If you have been accused of harassment or threats, speak with a lawyer before contacting anyone involved.
FAQ’s
Clear answers to common questions about harassment and threats charges in Ontario.
Criminal harassment generally involves conduct such as repeatedly following, communicating with, watching or threatening someone, knowing or being reckless as to whether they are harassed, which causes them to reasonably fear for their safety or the safety of someone they know.
It is knowingly conveying a threat to cause death or bodily harm, to damage property, or to harm an animal. The court considers whether, viewed objectively in context, the words were meant to intimidate or be taken seriously.
It depends on the context. The court looks at the words used, the circumstances and how a reasonable person would understand them. Statements made in jest or frustration are not automatically threats, but they are not automatically excused either.
Yes. Texts, emails and social media messages can form the basis of harassment, threats and communications charges. Do not delete messages or accounts after a charge without legal advice.
It is a court order requiring a person to keep the peace and follow conditions, such as no contact, typically for up to one year. It is not a criminal conviction and, in some cases, can resolve a charge.
This page provides general information about Ontario criminal law and is not legal advice. Every case depends on its own facts. Speak with a lawyer about your specific situation. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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Speak directly with JT Defence Law about your situation.
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If you have been accused of harassment or threats, speak with a lawyer before contacting anyone involved.
Proudly representing clients across Toronto and Ontario.