Ottawa Criminal Defence Lawyers
Getting charged with a crime may be the worst experience of your life, but it doesn’t have to define the rest of your life.
Affordable Ottawa Criminal Lawyers
Being arrested and charged with a crime may be the worst day of your life but it doesn’t need to define the rest of your life.
Introduction
Affordable Criminal Defence Lawyers in Ottawa
Trusted Criminal Lawyers Serving Ottawa and the Surrounding Area
If you’ve been charged with or accused of a criminal offence in Ottawa, you need a defence lawyer who will protect your rights and fight for your future. At Affordable Defence, we provide experienced, results-driven criminal defence for clients from all walks of life—without the high cost often associated with legal representation.
As a local criminal law firm in Ottawa, we understand how stressful and uncertain this time can be. Whether you’re facing charges for impaired driving, fraud, domestic assault, motor vehicle offences, or other criminal allegations, our legal team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Our defence lawyers are skilled negotiators and courtroom advocates who work directly with Crown prosecutors to pursue the best possible outcome—whether that means having your charges withdrawn, reduced, or resolved at trial.
We are determined to secure the best possible outcome for your case, aiming to have your charges dropped without a criminal record. With our extensive experience, we take pride in a track record filled with success stories and positive client reviews.
When you need a winning defence, turn to Affordable Defence in Ottawa. Contact us at (613) 223-4089, and trust in our expertise and unwavering dedication to safeguarding your rights.
Affordable Criminal Defence Lawyers in Ottawa
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence in Ottawa, you need a defence lawyer who will protect your rights and fight for your future. At Affordable Defence, we provide experienced, results-driven criminal defence for clients from all walks of life—without the high cost often associated with legal representation.
As a local criminal law firm in Ottawa, we understand how stressful and uncertain this time can be. Whether you’re facing charges for impaired driving, fraud, domestic assault, motor vehicle offences, or other criminal allegations, our legal team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Our defence lawyers are skilled negotiators and courtroom advocates who work directly with Crown prosecutors to pursue the best possible outcome—whether that means having your charges withdrawn, reduced, or resolved at trial.
We are determined to secure the best possible outcome for your case, aiming to have your charges dropped without a criminal record. With our extensive experience, we take pride in a track record filled with success stories and positive client reviews. When you need a winning defence, turn to Affordable Defence in Ottawa.
Contact us at (613) 223-4089, and trust in our expertise and unwavering dedication to safeguarding your rights.
Defending Your Rights
In Canada, every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty—and that means you have the right to a strong legal defence, no matter the nature of the charges or the evidence presented against you.
At Affordable Defence, we believe your future should not be defined by a single accusation. A well-prepared defence can mean the difference between a conviction with lifelong consequences and a complete dismissal or acquittal of your charges.
Our criminal defence lawyers in Ottawa draw on years of courtroom experience, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the law to build the strongest possible defence on your behalf. We take every case seriously—because your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line.
We defend clients across a wide range of criminal charges, including:
- Criminal Harassment: Harassing behaviors that can consist of stalking, repeatedly following, unsolicited communication or watching one’s dwelling.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and drugged driving charges.
- Criminal Mischief: Criminal mischief occurs when a person willfully destroys or damages property, renders property dangerous or useless, or obstructs or interferes with property in a way that intentionally affects another.
- Driving Offences: Driving over 80, dangerous driving, stunt driving, etc.
- Drug Offences: Drug crimes that include possession, trafficking, importing, and production of illegal substances.
- Firearm Offences: Firearm offences can include unauthorized possession, unsafe storage, possession of a restricted or loaded firearm, or use of a firearm during a crime.
- white-collar crimes: White-collar crimes encompass all types of fraud, as well as money laundering, tax evasion and tax fraud, etc.
- Search and seizure: We defencd those who have suffered from illegal searches, seizure of property, and forfeiture issues.
- Sex crimes: Sex crimes range a wide gamut of charges such as sexual assault, rape, internet sex crimes, child pornography, voyeurism, prostitution, etc.
- Wiretaps: Defending against illegal wiretaps used to gather evidence against you.
Our philosophy as criminal defence lawyers
We formed Affordable Defence because we believe that a high-quality, tenacious defence of your rights should not be the privilege of the few.
Nobody budgets for high legal fees, and a strong defence should be available to everyone charged with a crime.
We follow this philosophy for every case, preparing the strongest defence possible based upon your unique circumstances coupled with our extensive experience within the Ottawa legal system.
What we offer
Charges Defended
Impaired Driving
Don’t end up with a criminal record for one honest mistake. We defend everything from breath test refusal to dangerous driving and over 80 charges.
Violent Crime Defence
A mistake in the heat of the moment can change your life forever. We provide experienced counsel and prepare the best possible defence if you’re accused of violent crime.
Drug Charge
If you’ve been arrested on suspicion of drug possession, drug production or drug trafficking, experienced representation is critical. We can defend you.
Firearm Charge Attorney
Firearms and weapons offences are a very technical area of law. Our experienced attorneys understand how to defend your name and prevent unnecessary jail time.
Fraud & White Collar Crime
Criminal fraud and other white-collar offences can be complex. A powerful defence from our white-collar crime lawyers can help prevent unnecessary jail time.
Sex Crime Defence
Whether you’ve been charged with sexual assault, voyeurism, or another sex crime, you are innocent until proven guilty. We’ll prepare the defence you’re entitled to.
False accusations of a crime
Do I need a criminal defence lawyer?
Why Hiring a Criminal Lawyer in Ottawa Can Make All the Difference
Being arrested or charged with a criminal offence—especially for the first time—can feel overwhelming. You may be unsure of your rights, your options, or what comes next. While you’re legally allowed to represent yourself, doing so without an experienced Ottawa criminal defence lawyer can put your future at risk.
The criminal justice system is complex and highly technical. A knowledgeable defence lawyer understands how to navigate not only the law, but also how local Crown prosecutors and judges operate within the Ottawa court system. That insight can make a major difference in how your case is handled—and how it ends.
Even if your charge seems minor or the chances of jail time appear low, a conviction can carry serious, long-term consequences. A criminal record can impact your ability to work, travel, immigrate, or even obtain insurance.
If you’ve been falsely accused or made a mistake that led to a criminal charge, you deserve a fair defence. Speaking with a qualified criminal lawyer early on gives you the best chance at reducing or avoiding the consequences entirely. At affordable defence we believe that a high quality legal defence is not reserved for the wealthy alone. Call us for a free consultation to protect your rights.
What to Consider Before Hiring a Criminal Defence Lawyer
Choosing the Right Ottawa Defence Lawyer Can Change the Outcome of Your Case
Not all criminal defence lawyers offer the same level of experience, commitment, or local insight. When your future is on the line, it’s important to make an informed decision about who will represent you. Here are a few key factors to consider before hiring a criminal lawyer in Ottawa:
- Local Experience Matters: Choose a lawyer who regularly appears at the Ottawa Courthouse and understands how local Crown prosecutors and judges approach cases.
- Specialized Expertise in Criminal Law: Criminal defence is a complex and evolving area of law. Lawyers who focus exclusively on criminal cases—like Solomon Friedman or Fady Mansour—often demonstrate a high level of skill, strategic thinking, and knowledge of case law.
- Track Record & Reputation: Ask about past case results. A strong history of withdrawn charges, acquittals, or reduced penalties reflects effective advocacy.
- Communication & Availability: You should feel confident that your lawyer is accessible, responsive, and committed to keeping you informed throughout your case.
- Affordability & Transparency: A great defence shouldn’t be out of reach. At Affordable Defence, we offer honest, upfront pricing and flexible payment options to make quality representation accessible.
Hiring the right criminal defence lawyer can make a real difference in your case—and your future. Schedule a consultation with our team to find out how we can help.
What happens after I’m arrested in Ottawa?
Understanding the Arrest and Bail Process in Ottawa
If you’re arrested in Ottawa, the police will begin a formal process that depends on the seriousness of the alleged offence. For less serious charges, you may be released with a promise to appear in court at a later date. For more serious charges, you will likely be held in custody for a bail hearing.
During processing, you will be fingerprinted, photographed, and asked to provide personal details. You will also be placed in a holding cell until your court appearance is scheduled.
Importantly, you have the right to speak with a criminal defence lawyer or duty counsel before your bail hearing. This is your legal right and a critical step in protecting yourself from the very beginning.
If you’re held in custody, a bail hearing will typically take place within 24 to 48 hours. Before that hearing, you’ll have the opportunity to consult with your defence lawyer, who can begin building a strategy to secure your release and prepare your case.
Relying on duty counsel may be a mistake
Why Hiring Your Own Criminal Defence Lawyer Matters
If you’re arrested in Ontario, you have the right to speak with duty counsel—a government-appointed lawyer who can offer basic legal advice and assist with your bail hearing. While this service is important, relying solely on duty counsel for your defence can put you at a serious disadvantage.
Duty counsel often handle dozens of cases at once and have limited time to devote to your unique situation. Unlike a privately retained criminal defence lawyer, they are not fully dedicated to building a long-term strategy tailored to your best interests.
At Affordable Defence, we work exclusively for you. Our lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and freedom at every stage—before trial, during proceedings, and even after the case ends, if necessary. With us, you’re not just another file. You’re a person with a future worth fighting for.
What happens if we go to trial?
What to Expect in a Criminal Trial in Ontario
If your case proceeds to trial, your criminal defence lawyer at Affordable Defence will take every step to protect your rights and prepare a strong defence. This includes carefully reviewing all Crown evidence, such as witness statements, police notes, surveillance footage, and forensic reports—while also making sure your Charter rights were not violated during your arrest or investigation.
If the evidence is weak, inconsistent, or obtained unlawfully, we may be able to seek a dismissal of your case before it ever reaches trial. This can help you avoid a conviction, even though the initial arrest may still appear on your record.
If a trial is necessary, your lawyer will work closely with you to develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances. We will advocate on your behalf in court and challenge the prosecution’s case at every turn. The judge—or in some cases, a jury—will decide whether the Crown has proven your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
At every stage, our focus is on protecting your future and achieving the best outcome possible.
What is the role of a criminal defence lawyer?
Protecting Your Rights, Your Reputation, and Your Future
From the moment you contact Affordable Defence, your criminal defence lawyer becomes your trusted advisor and advocate—guiding you through the legal process and serving as the main point of contact between you, your family, and the justice system.
In Ontario, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Unfortunately, many people are wrongly accused or charged without the full story being understood. Our role is to make sure your rights are respected and that you receive a fair and complete defence.
Whether you made a mistake or have been falsely accused, you deserve to be heard. Our job is to understand your side of the story, challenge the evidence against you, and work toward the best possible outcome—whether that’s a withdrawal of charges, an acquittal, or a reduced sentence.
Even in cases where a conviction occurs, a skilled defence lawyer can help reduce the penalties and limit the long-term effects on your life.
You may only have one chance to present your case. Choosing the right criminal defence lawyer in Ottawa can make all the difference.
Testimonials
Glowing Reviews From Our Clients
Empathetic and Humane.
Fady is a consummate professional. At a person’s darkest moments, he is empathetic and humane. He is patient with endless questions for someone completely unfamiliar with the Canadian Justice System.
Extremely Professional.
Extremely professional and goes above and beyond his duty to help you out. Others might be cheaper, but they will not get the result as Mr Friedman will . Worth every penny.
Amazing advice.
Fady took very good care of me, keeping my best interest in mind and supported me throughout the process. I am very thankful for his help and would absolutely recommend this office and specifically Mr. Mansour.
Excellent service.
Excellent and precise communications skills. Very clear on what my position was, what the legal actions available were, and what his strategy would be to address the situation. And precise execution. He assured me of my rights and position every step of the way. Made me feel totally comfortable with my rights, and let me continue with my life. Highly recommended.
Professional and supportive.
Fady recently represented me in a legal matter during one of the most difficult periods of my life. From the onset, Fady was professional, supportive and reassured me that he would do all he could to ensure a positive outcome, which was achieved. Thank you to Fady and team for your hard work and support!
Proud Members of
Method
Our Process
You come first at every move – and are kept informed of progress from our first meeting until the conclusion of your case.
This is our three-step process:
We Listen to You
What have you been charged with? Why? What are the exact circumstances of your arrest and what has happened since? From here we can decide how we can assist in your case.
We Strategize with You
Once we understand the details of your case, we will discuss the best strategy for your defence – whether this is to push for case dismissal, acquittal at a trial, or plea bargaining.
We Defend You
This is where you leave it to us. We handle court appearances, pre-trial meetings, negotiations with judges and prosecution lawyers, as we work towards the most favorable solution for you.
Affordable defence lawyers in Ottawa
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