What to look for
1A genuine focus on criminal defence
Criminal law is its own discipline, with its own procedure, Charter arguments, and Crown dynamics. A lawyer who spends most of their time in criminal court will know the local Crowns, the courthouse practices, and the realistic range of outcomes for your charge far better than a generalist who takes the occasional criminal file.
2Experience with your specific charge
An assault file, a DUI, a sexual assault allegation, and a fraud case each call for different strategies. Ask whether the lawyer regularly handles charges like yours and what outcomes are realistic. A lawyer who can walk you through how cases like yours typically unfold is one who has been there before.
3You deal with the lawyer directly
At some firms, a senior name signs you up and a junior or an agent does the actual work. Ask plainly: will you personally handle my file from the first call through to resolution, or will it be passed on? Knowing exactly who is responsible for your case matters.
4Clear, honest communication
You should leave the first conversation understanding the process, your options, and the realistic risks, in plain language. A good lawyer explains rather than impresses. If you feel talked down to or kept in the dark at the consultation, that rarely improves once you have retained.
5Transparent fees, in writing
You are entitled to know what you are paying and what it covers. Many criminal matters can be handled on a flat fee agreed in advance, which makes costs predictable. Others are billed hourly. Either way, the arrangement should be in writing before you commit.
6Good standing and a real track record
Confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing through the Law Society of Ontario's directory, and look at recent, specific client reviews. Pay attention to what reviewers say about communication, preparation, and results, not just the star count.
Questions to ask at the consultation
A good consultation is a two-way interview. These questions quickly reveal whether a lawyer is the right fit:
- Have you handled charges like mine before, and what outcomes are realistic?
- Will you personally handle my file, or will it be passed to another lawyer or agent?
- How and how often will you keep me updated on my case?
- What is your fee, what does it cover, and how is it structured?
- What are the possible resolutions, and how do we try to avoid a criminal record?
- What is the likely timeline, and what happens at each stage?
Warning signs to avoid
- Guarantees a specific result. No ethical lawyer can promise an outcome in a criminal case.
- Is vague about who will actually handle your file.
- Will not put the fee in writing or is evasive about cost.
- Pressures you to retain on the spot before you have had time to think.
- Cannot clearly explain the process, the charge, or your options.
A note on cost
Price matters, but the cheapest option is not always the best value. What matters more is experience with your charge, the time the lawyer will actually devote to your file, and whether you deal with the lawyer directly. A transparent flat fee that covers the work through to resolution is often more predictable than a low hourly rate that quietly grows over time. See how fees work here.
Elias Rabinovitch
I focus on criminal defence and graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School. I handle every file personally, with no associates and no handoffs, my fees are agreed in writing up front, and I am available 24/7 for urgent matters. Rather than take my word for it, the best way to judge fit is a free consultation. You can also read my full background, case results, and client reviews and decide for yourself.
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Free, confidential consultation, available 24/7. Ask me anything from this guide, and decide for yourself whether I am the right lawyer for your case.